Description
This French Onion Chicken Rice is a comforting, cheesy, and flavorful dish. Tender chicken and rice are cooked in a rich onion and thyme sauce, topped with Gruyère cheese for a gooey, melty finish. Inspired by French onion soup, this dish is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
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2 tablespoons unsalted butter
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2 pounds yellow onions (about 2 large or 4 medium), sliced about 1/4-inch thick (about 7 cups)
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1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (from 1/4 medium bunch), plus more for garnish
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2 teaspoons kosher salt, divided, plus more as needed
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1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, plus more as needed
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1/4 cup dry white wine
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1 cup long-grain white rice
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2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
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1 cup whole or 2% milk
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1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-size pieces
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6 ounces Gruyère cheese, shredded (about 1 1/2 cups), divided
Instructions
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In a large skillet or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat.
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Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for 15-20 minutes until they become golden brown and caramelized.
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Stir in fresh thyme, 1 teaspoon salt, and pepper. Continue to cook for another 1-2 minutes.
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Add the white wine to the pan and cook, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan, for about 2 minutes.
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Stir in the rice, chicken broth, and milk. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cover and cook for 15 minutes.
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While the rice is cooking, heat a separate skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with the remaining teaspoon of salt and a pinch of black pepper. Cook for 6–8 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
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Once the rice has absorbed the liquid, stir in the cooked chicken and 3/4 of the shredded Gruyère cheese. Mix well until the cheese melts into the rice.
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Sprinkle the remaining Gruyère cheese over the top of the rice mixture. Cover and cook for an additional 2–3 minutes until the cheese has melted.
- Garnish with fresh thyme and serve hot.
Notes
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For a lighter version, you can use low-fat milk or swap the Gruyère for a lighter cheese like mozzarella.
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Feel free to use chicken thighs for a richer flavor, or use rotisserie chicken for an even quicker option.
- This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: French, American