French Onion Chicken Rice Casserole: A Creamy, Cheesy Dinner Delight

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I absolutely love this casserole for so many reasons:

• Comforting and Cozy: The creamy texture and cheesy goodness make this casserole an ultimate comfort food.

• Quick and Easy: With minimal ingredients and a simple prep, this dish is perfect for busy evenings.

• Flavor-Packed: The French onion soup brings a delicious depth of flavor, while the chicken and rice offer a hearty, satisfying base.

• Customizable: You can add vegetables, switch up the proteins, or adjust the cheese for your own unique twist.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need for this comforting casserole:

• 2 cups shredded cooked chicken

• 2 cups cooked white rice

• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup

• 1 packet of French onion soup mix

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• 1 cup sour cream

• Salt and pepper to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Prepare the Casserole Mixture
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cooked rice, cream of chicken soup, French onion soup mix, sour cream, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir until everything is well combined.

3. Assemble the Casserole
   Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly and sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese on top.

4. Bake
   Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through.

5. Serve and Enjoy
   Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields about 6 servings and takes only 10 minutes of prep time, with a baking time of 25-30 minutes. The total time to get this casserole from start to finish is approximately 35-40 minutes.

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully versatile—here are a few ways you can customize it:

• Vegetable Additions: Toss in some cooked vegetables like broccoli, peas, or spinach for extra nutrients.

• Switch Up the Protein: You can use cooked turkey, ham, or even ground beef in place of chicken.

• Cheese Varieties: Swap cheddar for mozzarella, gouda, or Swiss cheese for a different flavor profile.

• Make It Lighter: Use a lighter version of cream of chicken soup or swap the sour cream for Greek yogurt.

Storage/Reheating

• Fridge: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• Reheat: To reheat, warm the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, you can use cooked brown rice instead of white rice. Just note that it may take a little longer to cook.

Can I freeze this casserole?

Absolutely! This casserole can be frozen before or after baking. To freeze, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw it overnight in the fridge and then bake as directed.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Simply cover and refrigerate, and then bake when ready to serve.

Can I make this casserole with shredded rotisserie chicken?

Yes, rotisserie chicken works perfectly for this recipe. It’s a great shortcut for saving time.

What should I serve with this casserole?

This casserole pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables like green beans or broccoli. You can also serve it with garlic bread for an extra comforting touch.

Conclusion

This French Onion Chicken Rice Casserole is an absolute winner for cozy family dinners. It’s rich, creamy, and full of flavor—perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious with minimal effort. Try it today and experience comfort food at its finest!

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