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French Onion Chicken Rice

French Onion Chicken Rice
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French Onion Chicken Rice is a comforting and flavorful one-pan dish combining tender chicken thighs, sweet caramelized onions, and fluffy long-grain rice, simmered in a savory broth and optionally topped with melted Gruyere or Swiss cheese. Ready in under 40 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights, offering rich flavors with minimal cleanup and a family-friendly appeal.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs

Vegetables and Aromatics

  • 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves

Grains

  • 1 ½ cups long-grain white rice

Liquids

  • 3 cups beef or chicken broth

Fats and Oils

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Seasonings

  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Optional Toppings

  • ½ cup shredded Gruyere or Swiss cheese

Instructions

  1. Caramelize the Onions: Slice the yellow onions thinly and cook them slowly in a mix of butter and olive oil over medium-low heat. Stir frequently for 20 to 25 minutes until the onions are golden brown, soft, and deeply fragrant, developing the rich sweetness essential to the dish.
  2. Brown the Chicken: Push the caramelized onions to the side of the pan. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then sear them on each side for about 3-4 minutes until golden brown but not fully cooked through. This locks in the juices and adds flavor.
  3. Add Garlic and Herbs: Mix in the minced garlic and fresh thyme with the onions and chicken. Cook for an additional minute until fragrant, enhancing the dish’s aromatic profile.
  4. Incorporate Rice and Broth: Stir in the long-grain rice, coating it evenly with the onion and chicken juices. Pour in the broth, ensuring the rice is fully submerged. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and cover with a lid.
  5. Simmer and Finish with Cheese: Let the dish simmer for 18-20 minutes until the rice is tender and all liquid is absorbed. Turn off the heat. Optionally sprinkle shredded Gruyere or Swiss cheese on top, then cover and let the cheese melt for a couple of minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Slow and steady caramelization of onions is crucial for developing the deep, sweet flavor.
  • Avoid stirring once the broth is added to prevent mushy rice and ensure fluffiness.
  • Use room temperature chicken thighs to help them cook evenly and avoid shrinking during searing.
  • Let the finished dish rest covered for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld perfectly before serving.
  • You can broil the cheese topping briefly for a golden crust if desired.

Nutrition

Keywords: French Onion Chicken Rice, one-pan chicken recipe, caramelized onion chicken, easy weeknight dinner, comfort food, creamy chicken rice

Find it online: https://recipesemilly.com/french-onion-chicken-rice/