Dinner

French Onion Chicken Rice Bake Recipe

ByGabriel Langdon November 15, 2025November 15, 2025

Introduction

This French Onion Chicken Rice casserole is a comforting, cheesy dish that combines tender chicken and fluffy rice with creamy soups and a crunchy French fried onion topping. Easy to prepare and perfect for weeknight dinners, it offers a warm, savory flavor that the whole family will enjoy.

A close-up of a creamy rice dish in a white bowl with three visible layers: the bottom and middle layers are soft, creamy white rice mixed with shredded chicken and bits of green herbs, while the top layer is made of golden brown, crispy fried onions sprinkled with finely chopped green herbs. A gold spoon lifts a portion, showing melted cheese strings stretching from the dish, with the crispy onion layer on top and creamy rice below. The background is a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 cups cooked white rice
2 cups shredded cooked chicken (e.g., rotisserie)
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
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

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, French onion soup, sour cream, shredded cheese, 1 cup of French fried onions, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir well until fully mixed.
Step 3: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly and transfer the mixture evenly into it.
Step 4: Bake uncovered for 30 minutes until the casserole is bubbly around the edges.
Step 5: Remove from the oven, sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of French fried onions on top, and bake for an additional 5 minutes until the onions turn golden brown and crispy.
Step 6: Take the casserole out of the oven, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve hot.

Tips & Variations

Use brown rice instead of white rice for added fiber and a nuttier flavor.
Try shredded turkey or leftover rotisserie chicken as a substitute for chicken.
For a dairy-free option, replace sour cream with plain dairy-free yogurt and use vegan cheese.
To enhance the onion flavor and crispiness, toast the French fried onions in a dry pan before topping.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to help preserve the crispy topping. This casserole also freezes well for up to three months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

How to Serve

The image shows a close-up of a cheesy rice dish in a white bowl. The dish has three layers: the bottom and middle layers are creamy, white rice mixed with small bits of chicken and sprinkled with green herbs. The top layer is golden brown, crispy fried onions that cover the surface. A gold spoon lifts a scoop from the bowl, pulling stretchy melted cheese strands, making the dish look rich and creamy. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh onions instead of French fried onions?

Fresh onions provide a different, sharper flavor but lack the crispy texture that French fried onions offer. The fried onions create a golden, crunchy topping that is key to this casserole’s appeal.

Is it possible to prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate it. Bake it just before serving to maintain freshness and ensure the topping stays crispy.