Description
This French Onion Chicken Rice Casserole is a comforting American main dish that blends tender shredded chicken and cooked white rice with creamy soups and sour cream for a rich, savory base. It is infused with garlic and onion powder, topped with melted mozzarella or Swiss cheese, and finished with a crunchy golden layer of French fried onions. Baked until bubbly and golden brown, this easy-to-make casserole delivers creamy textures and crispy topping, perfect for cozy dinners or family gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 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 to 350°F (175°C) to prepare it for even baking.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, thoroughly mix cooked white 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 until fully incorporated and creamy.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and transfer the mixture evenly into it.
- Bake Initially: Bake uncovered for 30 minutes in the preheated oven until the casserole is bubbly around the edges and the center is set.
- Add Topping and Finish Baking: Remove casserole from oven, sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of French fried onions evenly on top, then bake for an additional 5 minutes until the topping is golden brown and crispy.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, garnish with chopped fresh parsley, and serve the casserole hot for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Toast the French fried onions in a dry pan before baking for deeper flavor and extra crispiness.
- Use freshly shredded chicken for best texture and flavor rather than pre-packaged.
- Adjust salt cautiously since canned soups and fried onions can be salty.
- You can assemble the casserole a day ahead and refrigerate, then bake just before serving.
- This dish freezes well for up to three months; thaw overnight before reheating.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Dishes
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: French Onion Chicken Rice, chicken casserole, comfort food, baked chicken rice, creamy casserole, French fried onions topping, easy weeknight dinner, cheesy chicken bake
