Savory French Onion Chicken

This one-pan French onion chicken rice brings the rich, comforting flavors of classic French onion soup to a hearty main dish that's perfect for busy weeknights. The combination of caramelized onions, tender chicken, and flavorful rice creates a meal that's both satisfying and impressive.

The first time I made this for my family during a cold winter evening, even my pickiest eater cleaned their plate. Now it's requested at least twice a month as our special Friday dinner when we want something comforting but don't want to spend hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts: offer tender protein that becomes infused with French onion flavor
• Yellow onions: create the sweet caramelized base that defines this dish
• Beef broth: provides rich depth of flavor that enhances the French onion element
• Dry onion soup mix: intensifies the onion flavor and adds perfect seasoning
• Long grain white rice: absorbs all the delicious flavors while cooking to tender perfection
• Gruyère cheese: creates that signature stretchy French onion soup topping
• Butter: helps create perfectly caramelized onions with rich flavor
• Dried thyme: adds classic French herb notes that complement the onions

Step-by-Step Instructions

Season the Chicken:

Mix salt, pepper, garlic powder and dried thyme in a small bowl. Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels for better browning. Season chicken generously on both sides with the spice mixture, pressing lightly so seasonings adhere.

Sear the Chicken:

Heat olive oil in a large oven safe skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Place chicken pieces in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd. Cook undisturbed for 4 to 5 minutes until deeply golden. Flip and cook another 4 to 5 minutes. The chicken won't be fully cooked yet. Transfer to a plate.

Caramelize the Onions:

Reduce heat to medium low and add butter to the same skillet. Once melted, add your thinly sliced onions. Cook slowly for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. The onions will gradually transform from white to golden to a rich caramel color. Be patient here as this builds the foundational flavor.

Prepare the Rice:

Add uncooked rice to the caramelized onions and cook for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring constantly. This toasts the rice slightly and coats each grain with flavor. Pour in beef broth, water, dry onion soup mix, and thyme. Stir well to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.

Add Chicken and Bake:

Nestle the seared chicken pieces back into the skillet, pressing them slightly into the rice mixture. Make sure some rice surrounds each piece. Cover tightly with a lid or aluminum foil to trap steam. Transfer to your preheated 375°F oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes until rice is tender.

Add Cheese and Broil:

Remove the skillet from the oven and take off the lid. Sprinkle the Gruyère cheese evenly over the chicken and rice. Switch oven to broil setting and return skillet to oven, placing it about 6 inches from the heat source. Broil for 2 to 3 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.

My absolute favorite part of this dish is the contrast between the sweet caramelized onions and the savory chicken. The first time I made it, my husband declared it was better than the French onion soup we had at our favorite bistro. That moment of pride still makes me smile every time I prepare this dish.

Make-Ahead Options

This French Onion Chicken Rice can be partially prepared ahead of time to make weeknight dinner even easier. Complete all steps through adding the rice and liquid ingredients, then cool and refrigerate. When ready to cook, bring to room temperature for 30 minutes, then add the chicken and continue with the baking instructions. Add an extra 5 minutes to the cooking time if starting with a cooler base.

Perfect Substitutions

If you don't have Gruyère cheese, Swiss cheese makes an excellent substitute with its similar nutty flavor profile. For a lighter version, try using brown rice instead of white rice, but note you'll need to increase the cooking time by about 15 minutes and possibly add an extra 1/4 cup of liquid. Vegetarians can omit the chicken entirely and increase the rice and vegetables for a satisfying meatless meal.

Serving Suggestions

This one-pan wonder pairs beautifully with a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness. For a complete French-inspired meal, serve with steamed green beans and crusty bread for soaking up the delicious sauce. A glass of dry white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc makes the perfect beverage pairing.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead of thighs. Both options work well in this dish, but adjust the cooking time slightly if using thicker cuts to ensure they cook through properly.

→ Can I substitute the Gruyère cheese?

Yes, you can substitute Gruyère with mozzarella, Swiss cheese, or even cheddar, depending on your preference. Each option will provide a different flavor profile.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare it ahead of time by cooking the chicken and caramelizing the onions. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator and combine with rice and broth before baking.

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time and add extra liquid, as brown rice takes longer to cook. Check your rice package for specific cooking instructions.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This dish pairs well with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful juices. It’s a complete meal on its own but can easily be complemented with additional sides.

→ How can I store and reheat leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave in a microwave-safe dish.