French Onion Chicken Rice Bake Recipe

Introduction

French Onion Chicken Rice Bake is a comforting, easy-to-make casserole that combines savory flavors with creamy textures. Perfect for using up leftover chicken, this dish is topped with crispy French fried onions for a delightful crunch.

Ingredients

• 3 cups cooked white rice (substitute with cooked brown rice for extra fiber)
• 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (use leftover rotisserie chicken or cooked turkey)
• 1 can cream of chicken soup (can be swapped with cream of mushroom soup for vegetarian)
• 1 cup French onion soup (choose homemade or low-sodium canned varieties)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder (consider fresh garlic for a more intense taste)
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• 1 cup sour cream (swap with plain dairy-free yogurt for a lighter version)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella or Swiss cheese (use mozzarella for a mild flavor or Swiss for nuttiness)
• 1.5 cups French fried onions (essential for topping but can be customized)
• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (adds a fresh touch to the presentation)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, French onion soup, sour cream, shredded cheese, one cup of French fried onions, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir thoroughly for about 2-3 minutes.
3. Step 3: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray. Spread the mixture evenly into the dish.
4. Step 4: Bake uncovered for approximately 30 minutes until the edges start to bubble and the top begins to set.
5. Step 5: Sprinkle the remaining half cup of French fried onions over the top and return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes until golden brown.
6. Step 6: Once baked, let it cool slightly, then sprinkle chopped parsley on top before serving.

Tips & Variations

• Use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder for a stronger, fresher flavor.
• Swap sour cream with plain dairy-free yogurt for a lighter, tangier version.
• Try cream of mushroom soup to create a vegetarian-friendly dish.
• Brown rice adds more fiber and a nuttier taste compared to white rice.
• Customize the topping by mixing the French fried onions with grated Parmesan for extra richness.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes until warmed through to maintain the crispy topping. Alternatively, microwave individual portions, but the topping may lose some crunch.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day ahead, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if baking straight from chilled.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely. Cheddar or Gruyère work well and add different flavor profiles. Feel free to experiment based on your preference.

French Onion Chicken Rice Bake Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 115 reviews

French Onion Chicken Rice Bake is a comforting casserole that combines tender shredded chicken, creamy soups, cheese, and crispy French fried onions over a bed of fluffy cooked rice. This easy oven-baked dish delivers rich flavors of French onion soup and a golden, crunchy topping, perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal or casual family dinners.

• Author: Caleb
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Casserole
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients

• 3 cups Cooked White Rice (Substitute with cooked brown rice for extra fiber)
• 2 cups Shredded Cooked Chicken (Use leftover rotisserie chicken or cooked turkey)
• 1 can (10.5 oz) Cream of Chicken Soup (Can be swapped with cream of mushroom soup for vegetarian)
• 1 cup French Onion Soup (Choose homemade or low-sodium canned varieties)
• 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (Consider fresh garlic for a more intense taste)
• 1 teaspoon Onion Powder
• Salt, to taste
• Black Pepper, to taste
• 1 cup Sour Cream (Swap with plain dairy-free yogurt for a lighter version)
• 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella or Swiss Cheese (Use mozzarella for a mild flavor or Swiss for nuttiness)
• 1.5 cups French Fried Onions (Essential for topping but can be customized)
• 2 tablespoons Chopped Parsley (Adds a fresh touch to the presentation)

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the casserole evenly.
2. Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked white rice, shredded cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, French onion soup, sour cream, shredded cheese, one cup of French fried onions, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir them thoroughly for about 2-3 minutes to ensure all ingredients are well integrated.
3. Prepare Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish using cooking spray to prevent sticking.
4. Layer Mixture: Spread the rice and chicken mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, smoothing the top for even baking.
5. Bake Initial Layer: Bake the casserole uncovered in the preheated oven for approximately 30 minutes, until the edges begin to bubble and the top starts to set.
6. Add Topping: Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the remaining half cup of French fried onions evenly over the top.
7. Bake for Crisp Topping: Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the onions are golden brown and crispy.
8. Cool and Garnish: Once baked, let the casserole cool slightly for easier serving. Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top before serving to add a fresh touch and color.

Notes

• Substituting with cooked brown rice increases fiber content and nutrition.
• Cream of mushroom soup can be used instead of cream of chicken for a vegetarian option.
• Using homemade French onion soup or low-sodium canned varieties reduces sodium levels.
• Fresh garlic can be used instead of garlic powder for a more robust flavor.
• Sour cream can be swapped with plain dairy-free yogurt to lighten the dish.
• French fried onions add essential crispiness; you can adjust quantities or use homemade crispy onions as a substitute.
• Leftover rotisserie chicken or turkey works well to save cooking time.
• Allow the bake to cool slightly before serving to help it set and improve slicing.

Keywords: French Onion Chicken Bake, Chicken Casserole, Rice Bake, Comfort Food, Easy Dinner Recipe