Name: French Onion Chicken and Rice Bake
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 90 min
Total time: 100 min
Ingredients: 1 small yellow onion (thinly sliced); 10.5 ounces Campbell’s French Onion Soup; 14.5 ounces chicken or beef broth (regular or low-sodium); 1.5 cups long grain rice (rinsed and drained); 0.25 cup butter (cut into slices); 2-2.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (1/2-inch thick); 1.5 cups shredded cheese (mozzarella or an Italian cheese blend); 1 ounce Lipton Onion Soup mix (1 packet); 1 cup French’s Crispy Fried Onions

Introduction to French Onion Chicken and Rice Bake

If you’re in search of a warm, comforting dish that’s as easy to prepare as it is delightful to eat, look no further than the French Onion Chicken and Rice Bake. This dish combines the rich flavors of French onion soup with tender chicken and hearty rice, creating a one-pan meal that the whole family will love. With just under ten ingredients and a prep time of less than ten minutes, you’ll wonder how something so delicious can be this simple.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Minimal Effort: With a total time of about an hour and forty minutes—most of which is hands-off cooking—this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
Flavor Fusion: The combination of creamy, cheesy goodness mixed with the savory notes of French onion soup elevates your ordinary chicken and rice dish into something extraordinary.
Feeding a Crowd: Serving up to eight individuals, it’s great for family gatherings or meal prep for the week ahead. You can easily adjust the recipe for smaller portions, too.

For more delicious variations, you can explore this resource that offers numerous comforting casseroles and bakes.

Give this French Onion Chicken and Rice Bake a try, and prepare to be wowed at the dinner table!

Ingredients for French Onion Chicken and Rice Bake

Essential ingredients for the bake

Creating the French Onion Chicken and Rice Bake requires just a handful of essential ingredients that come together to deliver rich flavors:

1 small yellow onion, thinly sliced
10.5 ounces, canned Campbell’s French Onion Soup
14.5 ounces, canned chicken or beef broth (choose regular or low-sodium based on your preference)
1 ½ cups long grain rice, rinsed and drained
¼ cup butter, cut into slices
2-2 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut to ½-inch thickness
1 ½ cups shredded cheese, such as mozzarella or an Italian blend
1 ounce packet Lipton Onion Soup mix
1 cup French’s Crispy Fried Onions

These simple ingredients form the base of this delightful dish, making it an effortless yet satisfying choice for any weeknight dinner.

Optional ingredients for customization

To tailor the French Onion Chicken and Rice Bake to your taste, you might consider these optional ingredients:

Fresh herbs, like thyme or parsley, for added flavor
Vegetables such as bell peppers or spinach for an extra nutritional boost
Different cheese varieties for unique textures and tastes
Homemade onion soup mix if you prefer a more personalized touch

Feel free to get creative! This recipe is forgiving and can be easily modified to fit your family's preferences or what's available in your pantry. Try these variations, and make this dish truly your own! For more details on ingredient alternatives and customization, check out Epicurious.

Step-by-step preparation of French Onion Chicken and Rice Bake

Crafting a French Onion Chicken and Rice Bake combines comfort and gourmet flair, and it's easier than you might think! Let’s walk through the steps so you can enjoy this hearty dish with minimal fuss.

Gather and prepare the ingredients

Before you dive into cooking, gather all your ingredients. You'll need:

1 small yellow onion, thinly sliced
10.5 ounces of Campbell’s French Onion Soup
14.5 ounces of chicken or beef broth (you can choose low-sodium)
1½ cups of rinsed and drained long grain rice
¼ cup of butter, cut into small slices
2-2½ pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (ideally ½-inch thick)
1½ cups of shredded cheese (mozzarella or Italian blend)
1-ounce packet of Lipton Onion Soup mix
1 cup of French’s Crispy Fried Onions

Make sure everything is prepped and convenient. This way, when you're in the groove of cooking, you won't have to run around searching for items!

Preheat the oven

Now that everything is assembled, it’s time to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating not only gets the cooking process started, but it ensures that your dish bakes evenly throughout. While you wait for the oven, you can focus on the next steps!

Mix the base in the baking dish

Grab a large 13”x9” baking dish and start building the foundation of your French Onion Chicken and Rice Bake. In the dish, whisk together the sliced onions, French onion soup, broth, and drained rice. This mixture will soak up all the flavorful juices during baking! Spread it out evenly in the dish, ensuring that the rice is nicely distributed.

Next, lay the slices of butter over the top. This adds creaminess and richness to the final dish as it cooks.

Layer the chicken and toppings

Now for the star of the show: the chicken! Place the boneless chicken breast or thigh slices directly on top of the rice mixture. Make sure they’re evenly spaced to allow for even cooking. Then, sprinkle the shredded cheese and Lipton Onion Soup mix on top of the chicken. This is where the magic happens, as the cheese melts and creates a delectable topping.

Bake to perfection

Cover your baking dish tightly with aluminum foil; this step is crucial to steam the rice properly. Bake the casserole for 1 hour and 15 minutes. After this initial bake, remove the foil and generously sprinkle the crispy fried onions over the top of the casserole. This adds that satisfying crunch! Return it to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes. Keep an eye on it—your chicken should reach an internal temperature of at least 165°F (75°C).

Once done, let it cool for a few minutes, then dig into this delightful French Onion Chicken and Rice Bake. It’s not only comforting but also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser you can share with family and friends (or keep all to yourself—it’s that good!). Enjoy the meld of flavors and textures that this dish offers, and make sure to consider a nice vegetable side salad to balance it out!

For more cooking tips and tricks, check out these helpful resources, where you can find additional ideas for your next meal!

Variations on French Onion Chicken and Rice Bake

Comforting variations for dietary preferences

Looking for a twist on the classic French Onion Chicken and Rice Bake? There are delightful ways to cater to your dietary needs! If you're aiming for a lighter dish, consider swapping out the chicken for turkey or tofu. You can also use cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice for a low-carb option. For those who need it, using gluten-free broth and onion soup mix keeps the dish safe and scrumptious without sacrificing flavor.

Creative twists on the classic recipe

Let’s get creative! One fun variation is to add sautéed mushrooms for extra umami or spinach for a pop of color and nutrition. To spice things up, try incorporating some sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean flair. And if you’re in the mood for something extra savory, sprinkle some crispy turkey bacon atop the dish before serving. The options are endless in this French Onion Chicken and Rice Bake, so feel free to experiment with your favorite ingredients!

Cooking tips and notes for French Onion Chicken and Rice Bake

Essential cooking tips for the perfect bake

To achieve a perfectly creamy French Onion Chicken and Rice Bake, ensure you cover the dish tightly with foil to lock in steam. This step is crucial for cooking the rice evenly. Consider searing your chicken for 1-2 minutes on each side for added flavor; it’s optional but can elevate your dish. For added richness, you might want to use homemade French onion soup if you have the time!

Common mistakes and how to avoid them

A frequent pitfall is using too much rice; stick to the specified amount for best results. Avoid undercooking the chicken by using a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches at least 165°F. Last but not least, always add those crispy fried onions at the end of baking to maintain their delightful crunch!

Serving suggestions for French Onion Chicken and Rice Bake

Complementary side dishes

To enhance your French Onion Chicken and Rice Bake, consider pairing it with a light side salad or steamed vegetables. A fresh arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich, cheesy casserole. Alternatively, roasted green beans or Brussels sprouts drizzled with olive oil and a sprinkle of salt can add a delightful crunch.

Ideal pairings for a complete meal

For a well-rounded meal, serve the casserole alongside garlic bread or buttery dinner rolls. Not only do these options complement the dish's flavors, but they also help soak up the delicious broth. Enjoy a crisp sparkling water or a flavored herbal tea to round off the experience—perfect for unwinding after a hectic day!

For more side dish inspirations, check out this article on healthy sides.

Time breakdown for French Onion Chicken and Rice Bake

Preparation time

Getting started on your French Onion Chicken and Rice Bake is a breeze! You only need about 10 minutes to gather your ingredients and prep everything. This means you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the moment.

Baking time

After prepping, it’s time to let it bake! The total baking time is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. This includes an initial 1 hour and 15 minutes covered with foil, followed by a crispy finish in the last 15 minutes.

Total time

In just 1 hour and 40 minutes, you can go from ingredients to a delicious, heartwarming dish. Perfect for busy nights or a cozy get-together!

Feel free to explore more about the importance of preparation efficiency and time management in cooking on Cooking Light. Happy cooking!

Nutritional Facts for French Onion Chicken and Rice Bake

Calories per serving

Each serving of this delightful French Onion Chicken and Rice Bake comes in at approximately 390 calories. This makes it a satisfying yet not overly indulgent option for your dinner table.

Protein content

Packed with 24 grams of protein, this dish is a great choice for those looking to incorporate lean protein into their meals. The chicken provides a hearty boost, making it ideal for post-workout recovery or just a long day at work.

Carbohydrates and fats

With around 33 grams of carbohydrates and 18 grams of fat, the bake offers a balanced combination of nutrients. The rice contributes to the carb content while the cheese and butter give it that rich, creamy texture we all love. If you're diving into a delightful comfort meal, this is definitely one to savor!

For more insights on maintaining a healthy diet while enjoying comfort foods, consider visiting nutrition-focused sites like Healthline or The American Heart Association.

FAQs about French Onion Chicken and Rice Bake

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the French Onion Chicken and Rice Bake up to a day in advance. Simply assemble the ingredients as directed in your baking dish, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate. When you're ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to account for the chill from the fridge.

How do I store leftovers?

Leftover French Onion Chicken and Rice Bake can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, pop it in the oven or microwave until heated through. Just be mindful that the crispy fried onions may lose their crunch in the microwave, so you might want to add fresh ones after reheating.

What can I substitute for French onion soup?

If you're looking for a homemade option, consider making your own French onion soup using caramelized onions, beef or vegetable broth, and seasonings. Alternatively, you can use a more straightforward broth with added flavors like onion powder and Worcestershire sauce to give your dish a unique twist. For tips on making homemade broth, check out sources like The Kitchn for guidance on this flavorful base.

Conclusion on French Onion Chicken and Rice Bake

In summary, the French Onion Chicken and Rice Bake is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of classic French onion soup with tender chicken and perfectly cooked rice. Ideal for busy weeknights, this recipe offers comfort and convenience in one delicious package. Give it a try for your next family dinner!