A comforting, savory one-dish casserole combining caramelized French onions, juicy chicken, and creamy rice baked to perfection with melted cheese on top. This cozy bake brings together classic flavors in a fuss-free way that’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how this dish blends the deep, rich flavor of caramelized onions with tender chicken and creamy, cheesy rice. It’s the perfect comfort food—hearty, satisfying, and full of flavor. I can prep everything in one pan and let the oven do the rest. Plus, it’s a family-friendly meal that doesn’t require a lot of cleanup. It’s also versatile, so I can make small tweaks based on what I have on hand.
ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
In a large skillet, I melt the butter over medium heat, then add the sliced onions and sugar. I cook them, stirring occasionally, until they’re deeply caramelized—about 15–20 minutes.
Next, I add olive oil and the chicken pieces into the same skillet, cooking them until lightly browned on all sides, about 5–7 minutes.
I stir in the minced garlic and dried thyme, letting it cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
In a large baking dish, I combine the rinsed rice, chicken broth, and French onion soup. I season everything with salt and pepper to taste.
I transfer the chicken and caramelized onions into the baking dish, stirring gently to combine everything well.
I cover the dish with foil and bake it for 35–40 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed.
Then, I remove the foil, sprinkle the shredded cheese on top, and bake uncovered for another 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
After baking, I let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 4 to 6 servings.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 55 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Variations
I like swapping the chicken broth with low-sodium beef broth for a richer, deeper flavor. Sometimes I toss in mushrooms or bell peppers for added veggies and texture. If I’m out of Swiss or Gruyère, I’ve also used mozzarella or a sharp white cheddar—both melt beautifully. I’ve even tried it with rotisserie chicken to save time, and it still tastes amazing.
storage/reheating
Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. I store them in an airtight container. When reheating, I cover the portion with foil and warm it in the oven at 350°F until heated through—about 15–20 minutes. I can also microwave single servings for 2–3 minutes, but I cover them with a damp paper towel to keep the rice from drying out.
FAQs
How do I know when the rice is fully cooked?
I check that the rice is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed. If the rice still seems firm, I cover the dish again and bake it for another 5–10 minutes.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, I can assemble everything (except the cheese) a day in advance and refrigerate it. When I’m ready, I bake it as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the bake time since it starts cold.
Can I use brown rice instead of white?
I can, but it takes longer to cook. I increase the baking time by 15–20 minutes and may need to add extra broth to keep it from drying out.
What’s the best cheese to use?
I like Gruyère for its nutty flavor and great melting quality. Swiss works well too. For a sharper taste, I’ve also used aged white cheddar.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, but I freeze it before baking for the best texture. I wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready, I thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
Conclusion
French Onion Chicken Rice Bake is a warm, cozy casserole that brings classic flavors into one easy, cheesy, satisfying dish. I love how everything comes together in one pan, and it’s always a hit at the table. Whether I’m looking for a simple weeknight dinner or something a bit more special, this recipe is always worth making.
A comforting, savory one‑dish casserole combining caramelized French onions, juicy chicken, and creamy rice baked to perfection with melted cheese on top.
