Description
This One-Pot French Onion Chicken Rice is the ultimate comfort meal, combining the deep flavors of caramelized onions, tender chicken, and perfectly seasoned rice—all in a single pot! With rich, savory flavors and a cheesy, melty topping, this dish is perfect for a cozy dinner, meal prep, or a satisfying family meal. Best of all? Minimal cleanup!
Ingredients
For the Chicken and Rice:
-
- 4–6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme)
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 ½ cups long-grain white rice
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup shredded Gruyère or mozzarella cheese
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients:
- Thinly slice the onions and mince the garlic.
- Season the chicken with salt and black pepper on both sides.
- Sear the Chicken:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add the chicken and cook for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Caramelize the Onions:
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium-low heat.
- Add the sliced onions and a pinch of salt.
- Cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until deep golden brown.
- Add the Garlic and Herbs:
- Stir in the minced garlic, thyme, and bay leaf. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Toast the Rice:
- Add the uncooked rice to the skillet, stirring to coat in the onion mixture.
- Toast for 1-2 minutes to enhance the flavor.
- Simmer Everything Together:
- Pour in the chicken broth and Worcestershire sauce, stirring to combine.
- Nestle the seared chicken back into the skillet, ensuring it’s partially submerged.
- Cover and simmer on low for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked.
- Add the Cheese:
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top.
- Cover and let the cheese melt for 2-3 minutes, or broil in the oven for a golden finish.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Remove the bay leaf, garnish with fresh thyme, and serve warm.
Notes
- Use Chicken Breasts: If using chicken breasts instead of thighs, reduce cooking time slightly.
- Don’t Rush the Onions: Caramelizing them properly adds the best flavor.
- Use Brown Rice: If using brown rice, increase broth to 3 ½ cups and cook longer.
- Storage: Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: One-Pot
- Cuisine: French-Inspired