French Onion Chicken Rice Bake

Introduction

Get ready to indulge in a warm and comforting dish with this French Onion Chicken Rice Bake. This recipe combines tender chicken, savory onions, and melted cheese, all baked to perfection over a bed of fluffy rice. It’s the perfect one-pan meal for a cozy family dinner.

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice
• 2 cups French onion soup
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup sliced mushrooms
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 4 servings

Directions and Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced onions and mushrooms; sauté until softened.
3. Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Add to the skillet, cooking until lightly browned on both sides.
4. In a separate bowl, combine uncooked rice and French onion soup. Mix well.
5. Transfer the rice mixture to a greased baking dish. Place the sautéed chicken and onion-mushroom mix over the rice.
6. Cover tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
7. Remove the foil, sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top, and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Notes or Tips

• Feel free to add your favorite vegetables for extra nutrition.
• For a crunchier topping, broil for the last few minutes.
• This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to bake.

Cooking Techniques

The key to enhancing the flavors in this dish lies in sautéing the onions and mushrooms first, allowing their natural sweetness to emerge. Proper seasoning of the chicken also elevates this comforting bake to a whole new level.

FAQ

• Can I use brown rice instead of white rice? Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time and liquid accordingly.
• What can I substitute for French onion soup? You can use a homemade onion broth or another type of soup for varied flavor.

Conclusion

This French Onion Chicken Rice Bake is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. With its simple ingredients and comforting flavors, it’s a wonderful dish that brings family and friends together around the table. Enjoy every cheesy, savory bite!