Description
This French Onion Chicken and Rice combines the rich, savory flavors of classic French onion soup with tender chicken and fluffy rice, all baked together in a single dish. Caramelized onions, melted cheese, and crispy fried onions make this a comforting and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 1 small yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 10.5 ounces canned French onion soup
- 14.5 ounces chicken broth
- 1 ½ cups long-grain rice, rinsed and drained
- ¼ cup butter, cut into slices
- 2 to 2 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, about ½-inch thick
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella or Italian cheese blend
- 1-ounce packet onion soup mix
- 1 cup crispy fried onions
Instructions
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Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Assemble the Base: In a 13×9-inch baking dish, combine the sliced onion, French onion soup, chicken broth, and rinsed rice. Stir to ensure everything is evenly distributed.
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Add Butter and Chicken: Place the butter slices evenly over the rice mixture. Lay the chicken pieces on top of the butter and rice.
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Top with Cheese and Seasoning: Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the chicken, followed by the onion soup mix.
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Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour and 15 minutes.
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Add Crispy Onions: After the initial baking time, remove the foil and evenly distribute the crispy fried onions on top. Return the dish to the oven and bake, uncovered, for an additional 15 minutes, or until the onions are golden and the rice is tender.
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Serve: Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy warm
Notes
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Rice Selection: Long-grain rice is recommended for this recipe. Avoid using minute rice, as it may become mushy.
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Chicken Thickness: Ensure chicken pieces are about ½-inch thick for even cooking. If using thicker pieces, consider pounding them to the desired thickness or adjusting the cooking time accordingly.
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Cheese Variations: While mozzarella or an Italian blend is suggested, feel free to experiment with other melting cheeses like Gruyère or Swiss for a different flavor profile.
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Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until warmed through, or in the microwave for a few minutes.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American