When you want all the flavors of French onion soup wrapped up in a cozy casserole, this French Onion Chicken Rice Casserole has you covered. Juicy chicken, creamy sauce, tender rice, caramelized onions, and melty cheese — it’s comfort food that feels indulgent but is easy to assemble.
Perfect for weeknights, potlucks, or when you just want one dish that does it all.
Why You’ll Love This Casserole
- Flavor fusion: Combines the depth of French onion soup with savory chicken and rice.
- One-dish ease: Everything bakes together — minimal clean-up.
- Cheesy satisfaction: Crispy top layer with melty cheese inside.
- Customizable: Add vegetables or change cheeses to suit your taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 1 cup uncooked rice (white or brown)
- 1 (10.5 oz) can French onion soup
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
- 1½ cups shredded Swiss, Gruyère, mozzarella or a mix
- ½ cup milk
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish
- (Optional) Crispy fried onions for topping
These ingredients combine to create a rich, satisfying dish with layers of texture and flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1 – Caramelize the Onions
In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add thinly sliced onion and cook slowly until golden brown and soft, about 10-12 minutes.
Step 2 – Mix the Base
In a large bowl, stir together uncooked rice, French onion soup, cream of chicken soup, milk, salt, and pepper.
Step 3 – Add Chicken & Cheese
Fold in the cooked chicken and half of the shredded cheese. Mix until everything is coated in the sauce.
Step 4 – Assemble and Bake
Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish. Top with remaining cheese and the caramelized onions (reserve some for garnish). Cover with foil.
Bake at 350 °F (175 °C) for about 45 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake another 10–15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is golden.
Step 5 – Rest & Serve
Let it rest 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley, and sprinkle extra crispy onions on top for crunch.
Tips, Variations & Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken to save time.
- For extra depth, stir in sautéed mushrooms or cooked green beans.
- If you like it creamier, add a splash of milk or sour cream before serving.
- Use Gruyère for classic French flavor, or mozzarella for a milder, melty option.
- Store leftovers in the fridge up to 4 days; reheat in the oven with foil to keep it moist.
- You can assemble ahead, cover, and bake later just add extra 5–10 minutes of bake time.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white?
Yes, just make sure it’s pre-cooked, as it takes longer to soften fully in the casserole.
Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free canned soups and crispy onion toppings, and check that your seasonings are GF.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely, use a larger baking dish and add a few extra minutes to baking time.
What other toppings can I use instead of fried onions?
Try seasoned breadcrumbs, crushed crackers, or even panko for a crunchy layer.
Conclusion
This French Onion Chicken Rice Casserole brings together comfort, flavor, and ease in one delicious bake. It’s cheesy, rich, savory everything you want for a satisfying meal with minimal fuss.
✨ Try it this week and tag @EatTreatsRecipes on Pinterest or Instagram because comfort should always be this delicious.