French Onion Chicken Rice Casserole Recipe

Introduction

This French Onion Chicken Rice Casserole combines tender chicken, savory caramelized onions, and creamy soups for a comforting one-dish meal. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for a cozy family dinner.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
• 1 cup uncooked long grain white rice
• 1 (10.5 oz) can French onion soup
• 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
• 1 1/2 cups shredded Swiss or mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 small onion, thinly sliced
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Step 2: In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and sauté until caramelized, about 10–12 minutes. Set aside once done.
3. Step 3: In a large bowl, combine the uncooked rice, French onion soup, cream of chicken soup, milk, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Step 4: Stir in the cooked shredded chicken and half of the shredded cheese into the soup and rice mixture.
5. Step 5: Pour the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
6. Step 6: Spread the caramelized onions over the top, then sprinkle with the remaining cheese.
7. Step 7: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake an additional 10–15 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and the rice is tender.
8. Step 8: Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired before serving.

Tips & Variations

• Use rotisserie chicken for an easy shortcut and added flavor.
• For extra richness, substitute half the milk with sour cream or cream cheese.
• Add minced garlic when caramelizing onions for a deeper savory taste.
• Try swapping Swiss cheese for Gruyère for a nuttier flavor.
• To make it gluten-free, ensure both soups are labeled gluten-free or use homemade versions.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and warm in a 350°F oven for 15–20 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, stirring halfway through for even heating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Brown rice takes longer to cook, so it’s best to pre-cook it before adding to the casserole or adjust baking time accordingly. Otherwise, the dish may not get the right texture.

Can this casserole be made ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.

French Onion Chicken Rice Casserole Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 94 reviews

This French Onion Chicken Rice Casserole is a comforting, easy-to-make one-dish meal combining tender shredded chicken, flavorful French onion soup, creamy soups, and melted Swiss or mozzarella cheese. Caramelized onions and fresh herbs elevate the dish, making it perfect for a cozy family dinner.

• Author: Daniel
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken and Rice

• 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
• 1 cup uncooked long grain white rice

Soup and Dairy

• 1 (10.5 oz) can French onion soup
• 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
• 1 1/2 cups shredded Swiss or mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 tablespoon butter

Vegetables and Seasoning

• 1 small onion, thinly sliced
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent the casserole from sticking during baking.
2. Caramelize Onions: In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the thinly sliced onions and sauté them, stirring occasionally, until they become soft and caramelized, which will take about 10–12 minutes. Once done, set them aside.
3. Mix Base Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the uncooked long grain white rice, French onion soup, cream of chicken soup, milk, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to create a uniform mixture.
4. Add Chicken and Cheese: Fold in the cooked shredded chicken and half of the shredded Swiss or mozzarella cheese into the soup and rice mixture.
5. Assemble the Casserole: Pour this combined mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly to ensure even cooking.
6. Add Toppings: Spread the caramelized onions evenly over the top of the casserole. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese on top to create a flavorful cheesy crust.
7. Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes to allow the rice to cook through and flavors to meld.
8. Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and bake an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden, and the rice is tender.
9. Garnish and Serve: Optionally, garnish with fresh thyme or parsley for a pop of color and added freshness before serving warm.

Notes

• Using long grain white rice ensures the rice cooks evenly and avoids overly sticky texture.
• Caramelizing the onions adds a deep, sweet flavor that enhances the classic French onion soup taste.
• If preferred, mozzarella cheese provides a milder flavor compared to Swiss.
• You can substitute cooked rotisserie chicken for convenience.
• To make ahead, assemble the casserole but do not bake; cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours, then bake as directed.
• Ensure casserole is covered during initial bake time to keep moisture in for perfectly cooked rice.

Keywords: French onion chicken casserole, baked chicken casserole, easy chicken dinner, comfort food, one-dish meal