Name: Comforting French Onion Chicken Rice Bake Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups cooked white rice (substitute with brown rice for nuttiness); 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie chicken or leftover turkey works well); 1 can cream of chicken soup (low-sodium or homemade alternatives); 1 can French onion soup; 1 cup sour cream (dairy-free yogurt can be used); 1 cup shredded cheese (Mozzarella for milder taste, Swiss for nuttier flavor); 1 cup French fried onions (divided: ½ cup inside casserole, ½ cup for topping); 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste; 1/4 cup chopped parsley (for garnish)

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Introduction

This Comforting French Onion Chicken Rice Bake is a warm, hearty dish perfect for family dinners. Combining tender chicken, creamy soups, and crispy French fried onions, it delivers rich flavors and satisfying textures in every bite.

The dish shows a close-up of a white plate filled with a creamy, golden-brown casserole. The top layer is crispy and browned, with some stringy melted cheese and crunchy toasted bits scattered evenly. Underneath is a thick creamy layer of shredded or sliced potatoes mixed with sauce, creating a soft texture. The edges of the content are slightly browned and crusty. There are small sprinkles of fresh green herbs over the top, adding a pop of color. A spoon lifts a portion of the casserole, showing the gooey and tender layers underneath the crispy topping. The background is a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

3 cups cooked white rice (substitute with brown rice for nuttiness)
2 cups shredded cooked chicken (use rotisserie chicken or leftover turkey)
1 can cream of chicken soup (low-sodium or homemade alternatives)
1 can French onion soup
1 cup sour cream (dairy-free yogurt can be used)
1 cup shredded cheese (mozzarella or Swiss; mozzarella for milder taste, Swiss for nuttier)
1 cup French fried onions (divide for topping and inside the casserole)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
1/4 cup chopped parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a large mixing bowl.
Step 2: In the bowl, combine cooked white rice, shredded cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, French onion soup, sour cream, and shredded cheese. Add 1 cup of French fried onions, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir thoroughly until well mixed.
Step 3: Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and spread evenly.
Step 4: Bake uncovered for about 30 minutes, or until the edges are bubbling.
Step 5: Remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of French fried onions on top. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes.
Step 6: Once done, remove from the oven and garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Tips & Variations

For added flavor, try mixing in sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions before baking.
Use sharp cheddar cheese instead of mozzarella or Swiss for a tangier twist.
For a lighter version, substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt.
Try adding a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for a subtle kick.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat portions in the microwave until warmed through or cover with foil and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven. The French fried onions topping may lose crispness after refrigeration, so consider adding fresh onions when reheating.

How to Serve

A white round dish filled with three visible layers: the bottom layer is a creamy, white sauce mixed with soft rice, the middle layer is the same creamy rice mixture lifted by a golden spoon with gooey, stretchy melted cheese strings pulling away, and the top layer is golden brown, crispy fried onions sprinkled evenly with small green herb bits. The dish is set against a white marbled texture background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of rice for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute white rice with brown rice for a nuttier flavor and added fiber. Just ensure it’s fully cooked before mixing with other ingredients.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. Bake it the next day, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if chilled.