Name: French Onion Chicken & Rice Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 3 tablespoons butter, divided; 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, divided; 3 pounds sweet onion, halved and thickly sliced; 1 tablespoon fresh garlic, minced; 1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt; ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 1 teaspoon dry tarragon; 1 teaspoon dry thyme; 1/3 cup brandy or white wine; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 8 ounces button mushrooms, sliced; 1 ½ cups uncooked white rice; 2 cups baby spinach; 3 cups chicken stock; 1 cup heavy cream; 3-4 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 4 ounces Gruyere Swiss cheese, shredded

Jump to Recipe

If you’re searching for a cozy, irresistible dinner, look no further than this French Onion Chicken & Rice. Imagine the caramelized sweetness of onions mingling with savory chicken, creamy rice, and gooey Gruyere—every bite is pure comfort. This dish combines the beloved flavors of classic French onion soup with satisfying protein and heartiness, creating a meal that’s perfect for feeding a hungry family or impressing friends at a dinner party. Whether shared on a chilly evening or savored as leftovers, French Onion Chicken & Rice always delivers big flavor with just a touch of elegance.

French Onion Chicken & Rice Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward but absolutely crucial—each adds a unique layer to the flavor and richness of French Onion Chicken & Rice. Take a little care with the steps, and enjoy how even the simplest items work together to create something exceptional.

Butter (3 tablespoons, divided): Adds richness and helps caramelize the onions to golden perfection.
Extra virgin olive oil (3 tablespoons, divided): Brings a fruity, balanced flavor and keeps the onions and rice from sticking.
Sweet onions (3 pounds, about 4 large): The star of the show, they lend essential sweetness and depth to every bite.
Fresh garlic (1 tablespoon, minced): Offers a savory, aromatic punch to the dish.
Kosher salt (1 ½ teaspoons): Enhances all the flavors and helps draw out moisture from the onions.
Freshly ground black pepper (½ teaspoon): Adds the perfect gentle heat and complexity.
Dry tarragon (1 teaspoon): Provides a subtle licorice note that elevates the overall savory character.
Dry thyme (1 teaspoon): Delivers earthiness, making the dish taste wonderfully homey and rustic.
Brandy or white wine (1/3 cup): Deglazes the pan and imparts a touch of sophistication—don’t worry, the alcohol cooks off!
Worcestershire sauce (1 tablespoon): Adds umami depth you didn’t know you needed.
Button mushrooms (8 ounces, sliced): Contribute an earthy meatiness that complements the chicken perfectly.
White uncooked rice (1 ½ cups): Absorbs all the flavorful liquid, making the dish hearty and satisfying.
Baby spinach (2 cups, packed): Gives a splash of vibrant color and a nutritional boost.
Chicken stock (3 cups): Forms the base of the creamy rice; choose homemade or a good quality boxed version.
Heavy cream (1 cup): Makes everything luxurious and silky.
Cooked chicken (3-4 cups, torn into bite-sized pieces): Rotisserie or homemade, it adds comfort and protein.
Gruyere Swiss cheese (4 ounces, shredded): Melts into the glorious, golden topping that’s utterly irresistible.

How to Make French Onion Chicken & Rice

Step 1: Caramelize the Onions

Start by melting two tablespoons of butter with two tablespoons of olive oil in a large, high-sided skillet over medium low heat. Slice your onions into thick half moons and add them to the pan. Let them cook undisturbed for 15 minutes, then give them a gentle stir and cook for another 15 minutes. You want them to be deeply bronzed and beautifully jammy, so go ahead and let them cook another 10 to 15 minutes if needed—patience is key for that sweet, mellow flavor. This step lays the foundation for your French Onion Chicken & Rice.

Step 2: Add Aromatics & Brandy

Once your onions are gorgeously caramelized, turn the heat up to medium and stir in the minced garlic. Cook for one minute, then sprinkle in the salt, pepper, tarragon, and thyme. Let everything get fragrant for another minute. Next, take the pan off the heat and add the brandy or white wine. Return it to the burner and cook until the liquid has evaporated—around five minutes. Finally, stir in the Worcestershire sauce and remove everything from the heat. Set aside; you’ll layer this glorious concoction on top later.

Step 3: Prepare the Mushrooms and Rice

Now, in a medium saucepan or separate pot, add the sliced mushrooms—no oil or butter yet! Dry sauté the mushrooms over medium-high heat for about 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, so they get golden and concentrated. Add the last tablespoon of butter and the last tablespoon of olive oil, then add your uncooked rice. Stir well and let everything toast together for five minutes, infusing the rice with extra flavor and a hint of nuttiness. The aroma alone is enough to make your mouth water.

Step 4: Wilt the Spinach and Add Liquids

Stir the packed spinach into the mushrooms and rice, and cook for about a minute—just until the greens begin to wilt and mingle with the grains. Pour in the chicken stock, bring to a gentle simmer, then lower the heat as much as possible and cover. Allow the rice to absorb the flavorful stock for 15 minutes. It will come together as a creamy, dreamy base for your French Onion Chicken & Rice.

Step 5: Fold In the Chicken and Cream

Once the rice is tender, remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the heavy cream and the cooked, bite-sized chicken pieces. Warm everything together just until it’s hot—the goal is a creamy, cozy mixture studded with tender chicken.

Step 6: Assemble and Broil

Preheat your broiler and spray a 9x13x3-inch casserole dish with kitchen spray. Pour the creamy rice and chicken mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly. Spoon the caramelized onions across the top, spreading them out for maximum coverage and dramatic flair. Sprinkle the shredded Gruyere cheese generously over everything, then slide it under the broiler. Let it bubble and brown, watching closely, until the cheese is golden and irresistibly gooey. Your French Onion Chicken & Rice is ready to serve immediately—bring it to the table hot and watch everyone’s eyes light up.

How to Serve French Onion Chicken & Rice

Garnishes

Finish your piping hot casserole with a flourish! Sprinkle a little chopped fresh parsley or thyme for color and aroma, or try thinly sliced chives for a mild oniony bite. A couple of extra shavings of Gruyere never hurt, either—this truly takes French Onion Chicken & Rice over the top.

Side Dishes

This dish is hearty on its own, but a crisp green salad tossed with a tangy vinaigrette pairs perfectly to cut through the richness. You could also serve it with rustic bread (think baguette or sourdough) to help mop up every last bit of creamy goodness, or alongside simple roasted veggies for a balanced meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, portion the French Onion Chicken & Rice into individual oven-safe ramekins before adding the onions and cheese. Broil until bubbly and serve as elegant single servings. Or, scoop big servings directly into bowls and top with extra fresh herbs for a shareable, family-style vibe that encourages everyone to dig in.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftovers into airtight containers and they’ll keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld even more as it sits, making French Onion Chicken & Rice an even more comforting lunch or dinner the next day.

Freezing

You can freeze portions in tightly sealed containers for up to 2 months. For best results, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Try to avoid freezing if you’ve already broiled the cheese, as it can lose some of its creamy texture after thawing.

Reheating

Warm leftovers covered in a 350°F oven until bubbling again, about 20-25 minutes. If you want to restore that signature cheesy crust, sprinkle on a little extra Gruyere during the last few minutes under the broiler. Alternatively, individual portions can be microwaved until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use a different cheese if I don’t have Gruyere?

Absolutely! While Gruyere is classic and melts beautifully, Swiss, provolone, or even a mild mozzarella will work in a pinch. Just make sure it’s a good melting cheese for that signature bubbly top.

Is it possible to make French Onion Chicken & Rice ahead for a dinner party?

Yes, you can prepare the dish up to the point of broiling and refrigerate it. When ready to serve, bring it back to room temperature, add the cheese, and broil right before guests arrive for that fresh-from-the-oven appeal.

What’s the best kind of chicken to use?

Rotisserie chicken makes this incredibly easy, but you can also use poached, roasted, or sautéed chicken breasts or thighs. Just make sure to tear or chop it into bite-sized pieces for the best texture.

Can I make French Onion Chicken & Rice vegetarian?

You sure can! Swap the chicken for extra mushrooms or a blend of sautéed vegetables (like zucchini or bell peppers) and use vegetable stock. You’ll still capture the spirit of the dish with every satisfying bite.

Does this recipe work with brown rice?

It can, but you’ll need to increase the cooking time and the amount of liquid. Brown rice typically takes longer to soften, so check your package instructions and adjust the stock as needed to ensure a creamy result.

Final Thoughts

If you love meals that deliver on comfort and flavor, this French Onion Chicken & Rice deserves a spot on your table. Each layer—from the sweet onions to the cheesy, golden topping—has been crafted for maximum satisfaction. Give it a try and let it become a new favorite in your dinner rotation!

French Onion Chicken & Rice Recipe

★★★★★

5.1 from 16 reviews

Author: lilan
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Description

This French Onion Chicken & Rice recipe combines tender chicken, flavorful caramelized onions, and creamy rice topped with melted cheese for a comforting and satisfying meal.

Instructions

Caramelize the Onions: Melt 2 tablespoons of butter and 2 tablespoons of oil in a skillet. Add onions and cook until caramelized. Add garlic, salt, pepper, tarragon, thyme, brandy, and Worcestershire sauce.
Prepare the Rice: In a pot, cook mushrooms until browned. Add remaining butter and oil, then stir in rice. Add spinach, stock, and simmer. Stir in cream and chicken.
Assemble and Bake: Transfer rice mixture to a casserole dish, top with caramelized onions, and sprinkle with cheese. Broil until melted and bubbly.
Serve hot.