Description
This French Onion Chicken Rice Casserole is a comforting and satisfying dish combining tender shredded chicken and cooked white rice with creamy soups and sour cream. Enhanced with garlic and onion powder, it’s topped with melted mozzarella or Swiss cheese and a crispy layer of golden French fried onions. Baked until bubbly and golden, then garnished with fresh parsley, this casserole offers a rich blend of savory flavors and textures perfect for easy weeknight dinners or family gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Components
- 2 cups cooked white rice
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (e.g., rotisserie)
Soups and Dairy
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) French onion soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1½ cups shredded mozzarella or Swiss cheese
Toppings and Seasonings
- 1½ cups French fried onions, divided
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for even baking of the casserole.
- Mix All Ingredients: In a large bowl, thoroughly combine cooked rice, shredded cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, French onion soup, sour cream, shredded mozzarella or Swiss cheese, 1 cup of French fried onions, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir well until fully incorporated and creamy.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. Pour the prepared mixture into the dish and evenly spread it out for uniform cooking.
- Bake Until Bubbling: Place the casserole uncovered into the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes or until the edges are bubbly and the center is set.
- Add Topping and Finish Baking: Remove the casserole from the oven, sprinkle the remaining ½ cup French fried onions evenly on top, then return the dish to bake for an additional 5 minutes until the onions turn golden brown and crisp.
- Garnish and Serve: Take out the casserole from the oven, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for color and brightness, and serve hot for best flavor and texture contrast.
Notes
- Ensure the cooked rice is fully cooked and cooled before mixing to avoid a mushy casserole.
- Toast the French fried onions in a dry pan before using to deepen flavor and enhance crispiness.
- Adjust salt carefully since canned soups and fried onions can be salty.
- This casserole stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days and freezes for up to 3 months.
- Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to maintain the topping’s texture.
- Substitute cooked brown rice or cooked turkey if preferred.
- For a dairy-free version, use dairy-free yogurt and vegan cheese alternatives.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Dishes
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: French Onion Chicken Rice, Chicken Casserole, Rice Bake, Comfort Food, Creamy Chicken Rice, Baked Chicken and Rice
