French Onion Chicken and Rice

Calling all Caramelized Onion fans for this stove top dinner! This French Onion Chicken and Rice dinner is my take on a French Onion Soup flavor in a family meal. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this dish combines tender chicken thighs with creamy rice and delicious caramelized onions, creating a comforting meal everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With only 15 minutes of prep time, you can have a hearty meal ready in no time.
• One-Pan Wonder: This recipe uses just one skillet, making cleanup a breeze after enjoying your delicious dinner.
• Rich Flavor Profile: The combination of caramelized onions, garlic, and spices creates a mouthwatering flavor that elevates this dish.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as a main course or pair it with your favorite sides for an even more satisfying meal.
• Family-Friendly: With its rich taste and easy-to-eat texture, this dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

Tools and Preparation

To make the French Onion Chicken and Rice, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A large skillet allows for even cooking and can hold all ingredients comfortably.
• Mixing Bowl: Useful for combining chicken with spices, ensuring an even distribution of flavor.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1 1/2 lbs chicken thighs
• 4 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 2 teaspoons onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper

For the Rice Mixture

• 1 large onion (peeled, quartered and thinly sliced)
• 1 1/2 cups long grain rice
• 2 1/2 cups chicken broth
• 1/3 cup heavy cream
• 4 cups fresh spinach (uncooked)

How to Make French Onion Chicken and Rice

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

In a large bowl combine the chicken with the garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, pepper, and 1 tablespoon of the olive oil. Stir well to combine and set aside.

Step 2: Caramelize the Onions

In a large skillet set over medium heat, add two tablespoons of the olive oil and the onions. Stir well and cook the onions until they are golden and caramelized, about 15 minutes. Stir frequently to prevent burning. Remove onions from pan and set aside.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

In the same skillet, add the chicken pieces. Sear each side for about 2 – 3 minutes until browned but not fully cooked. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Toast the Rice

Add remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet along with uncooked rice. Stir well for about one minute to toast it lightly.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Add chicken broth, heavy cream, caramelized onions, and spinach to the skillet. Stir well before placing seared chicken pieces on top. Reduce heat to low and cover. Cook for about 20 – 25 minutes until rice is tender and chicken is cooked through.

Step 6: Serve

Serve hot and garnish with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon if desired.

This French Onion Chicken and Rice dish makes for a satisfying family dinner that brings comfort to your table with every bite!

How to Serve French Onion Chicken and Rice

Serving French Onion Chicken and Rice is all about enhancing the dish’s rich flavors and comforting textures. Here are some delightful suggestions to elevate your meal experience.

With Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness.
• Thyme Sprigs: Add a few sprigs of thyme to enhance the aromatic flavors.

With Lemon Zest

• Zesty Garnish: A squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of lemon zest can brighten the dish and balance its richness.

Accompanied by Crusty Bread

• Baguette Slices: Serve with toasted baguette slices that can soak up the delicious broth.
• Garlic Bread: Pair with garlic bread for a hearty addition that complements the flavors.

With a Side Salad

• Mixed Greens: A light mixed greens salad with a tangy vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast.
• Caesar Salad: For something heartier, a classic Caesar salad works wonderfully with this dish.

How to Perfect French Onion Chicken and Rice

Perfecting your French Onion Chicken and Rice ensures each bite is as comforting as it should be. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results.

• Use Bone-In Thighs: For richer flavor, consider using bone-in chicken thighs instead of cutlets.
• Caramelize Onions Slowly: Take your time when caramelizing onions; low heat enhances their sweetness.
• Choose High-Quality Broth: Using homemade or high-quality chicken broth will elevate the overall taste.
• Adjust Seasonings: Feel free to tweak seasonings according to your taste preference; add more salt or herbs if needed.
• Let it Rest: After cooking, let the dish sit covered for 5 minutes before serving; this allows flavors to meld together even more.
• Top with Cheese: For an extra indulgent touch, sprinkle some shredded cheese on top just before serving.

Best Side Dishes for French Onion Chicken and Rice

When serving French Onion Chicken and Rice, consider these side dishes that complement its rich flavors.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with garlic pair perfectly with the savory chicken flavors.
2. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until tender adds color and nutrition to your plate.
3. Sautéed Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans sautéed in olive oil make for a vibrant side option.
4. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the rich main dish.
5. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad tossed with cherry tomatoes and cucumbers offers texture and freshness.
6. Steamed Broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli adds nutritional value while balancing the meal’s richness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking French Onion Chicken and Rice can be a delightful experience, but it’s easy to make some common mistakes.

• Bold seasoning choices: Forgetting to season the chicken properly can lead to bland flavors. Use garlic and onion powder generously for a tasty bite.
• Bold rice cooking time: Not allowing enough time for the rice to cook can result in undercooked grains. Be sure to follow the 20-25 minute simmering time.
• Bold skillet management: Overcrowding the skillet with chicken can prevent even browning. Cook in batches if necessary to achieve that perfect sear.
• Bold neglecting caramelization: Rushing the onion caramelization process can leave them raw. Take your time; allow about 15 minutes for proper caramelization.
• Bold skipping liquid measurements: Not measuring broth correctly can lead to dry or soggy rice. Stick to the recipe for best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing the container.

Freezing French Onion Chicken and Rice

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Separate into portions for easy thawing and reheating later.

Reheating French Onion Chicken and Rice

• Bold Oven method: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Bold Microwave method: Heat on medium power in a microwave-safe dish, stirring occasionally, until hot (about 3-5 minutes).
• Bold Stovetop method: Add a splash of chicken broth in a pan over medium heat, stirring until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making French Onion Chicken and Rice, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries.

Can I use different types of chicken?

Absolutely! You can substitute chicken breast or even turkey if preferred. Just adjust cooking times as necessary.

How do I make this dish vegetarian?

For a vegetarian version of French Onion Chicken and Rice, replace chicken with mushrooms or tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

What sides go well with French Onion Chicken and Rice?

This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad. A simple green side adds a nice touch!

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare it ahead of time, store it in the fridge, and reheat it when ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

French Onion Chicken and Rice is an easy yet delicious meal that combines comforting flavors with nutritious ingredients. This versatile recipe allows for customization—feel free to add more vegetables or spices according to your taste. Give it a try, and enjoy this delightful one-pan dinner!