French Onion Chicken and Rice Bake Recipe
If you’re looking for a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal that combines the irresistible flavors of French onion soup with hearty chicken and fluffy rice, look no further than this French Onion Chicken and Rice Bake Recipe. It’s a warm, cheesy, and satisfying dish that comes together quickly yet tastes like you’ve been slow-cooking it all day. Perfect for weeknights or a casual gathering, this bake marries tender chicken with creamy, tangy French onion dip, gooey cheddar cheese, and a crispy topping of French fried onions that brings the perfect crunch and flavor every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with this recipe is a breeze because it uses simple pantry staples and common fresh ingredients that create layers of flavor and texture. Each ingredient plays a specific role, from the creamy base to the crispy topping, making this dish a harmonious blend of taste and comfort.
- 2 cups instant white rice: Quick-cooking rice that absorbs all the delicious flavors without fuss.
- 2 cups water: To perfectly cook the rice and keep it fluffy.
- 2 cups cooked chopped chicken: Using rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut that adds great flavor and tender protein.
- 1 cup refrigerated sour cream French onion dip: The star ingredient that gives the dish its signature oniony creaminess.
- 1 (10.5-oz) can Unsalted Cream of Chicken Soup: Adds richness and a velvety texture to the bake.
- ½ cup chicken broth: Enhances the savory depth and keeps the mixture moist.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully and adds a sharp, tangy bite.
- ½ cup French Fried Onions: Provides a crunchy, flavorful topping that completes the dish.
How to Make French Onion Chicken and Rice Bake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan
First things first, preheat your oven to 350ºF to get it nice and hot. Then, grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and spray it with cooking spray. This simple prep step ensures your bake won’t stick and makes cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Cook the Instant Rice
Bring 2 cups of water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Stir in the instant rice, cover it immediately, then turn off the heat. Let the rice sit for about 5 minutes until it’s fully absorbed all the water and is perfectly tender without being mushy.
Step 3: Mix the Main Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream French onion dip, shredded cheddar cheese, chicken broth, and the cooked rice. Stir everything together until the mixture is well combined and creamy. This step is where that signature French onion flavor really starts to shine.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Spread the creamy chicken and rice mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the French fried onions on top to add the golden, crunchy layer that gives this dish so much personality. Place it in the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbling, and the onions are perfectly toasted.
How to Serve French Onion Chicken and Rice Bake Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra pop of freshness and color, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or chives over the top right after baking. A little cracked black pepper can add a subtle kick that contrasts beautifully with the creamy richness. These small touches elevate the dish visually and flavor-wise.
Side Dishes
This dish is hearty on its own but pairs wonderfully with light, crisp sides that balance the richness. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or steamed green beans with a squeeze of lemon are perfect companions. If you want to keep the cozy vibe going, roasted Brussels sprouts or sautéed mushrooms also make excellent sides.
Creative Ways to Present
Try making this French Onion Chicken and Rice Bake Recipe in individual ramekins for a charming presentation that’s perfect for dinner parties. You can also layer it in a casserole dish with extra cheese between layers to create an impressive, multi-layered bake that looks as good as it tastes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer leftovers into an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. This bake keeps well for 3 to 4 days, making it an ideal meal prep option for busy weeknights.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, you can freeze this dish before baking. Cover the baking dish tightly with foil and plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn, and it will last up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator for best results.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350ºF until warmed through and crispy on top, about 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, use the microwave for convenience, but the oven method helps restore the delicious crunchy topping and melty cheese.
FAQs
Can I use fresh onions instead of the French onion dip?
While fresh onions can add flavor, the refrigerated sour cream French onion dip provides creamy tanginess and seasoning that’s tough to replicate. For best results, stick with the dip or use a store-bought equivalent.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
You can try substituting the chicken with mushrooms or a meat substitute and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, but the classic French onion chicken and rice bake recipe shines most with the savory chicken flavor.
Can I use brown rice instead of instant white rice?
Yes, but brown rice requires a longer cooking time and more liquid. If you want to use brown rice, cook it beforehand according to package instructions and adjust the liquid quantities as needed.
What if I don’t have French fried onions?
You can make your own by lightly frying thinly sliced onions in oil until crispy, or use fried shallots or crispy breadcrumbs as a substitute to get that satisfying crunch.
How spicy is this dish?
This recipe is mild and comforting, with no added heat. If you’d like, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeño to the mix for a subtle kick.
Final Thoughts
Trust me, once you try this French Onion Chicken and Rice Bake Recipe, it will quickly become one of your go-to dishes whenever you want something cozy and delicious without a ton of fuss. The blend of creamy, cheesy, and crunchy textures paired with that unforgettable French onion flavor makes it a winner every time. Gather your ingredients, invite your favorite people over, and get ready for some seriously happy taste buds!
Print
French Onion Chicken and Rice Bake Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
A comforting French Onion Chicken and Rice Bake combining tender cooked chicken, creamy French onion dip, and cheddar cheese over fluffy instant rice, all topped with crispy French fried onions for a deliciously easy weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups instant white rice
- 2 cups water
- 2 cups cooked chopped chicken (about half of a rotisserie chicken)
- 1 cup refrigerated sour cream French onion dip
- 1 (10.5-oz) can unsalted cream of chicken soup
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup French fried onions
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350ºF. Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking pan with cooking spray to prevent sticking and set it aside for later.
- Cook the Rice: In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Stir in the instant white rice, cover, then turn off the heat. Let the rice sit covered for 5 minutes until all the water is absorbed and the rice is fully cooked and fluffy.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked chopped chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream French onion dip, shredded cheddar cheese, chicken broth, and the cooked rice. Stir everything together until well mixed to evenly incorporate all flavors.
- Assemble and Top: Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared 9×13-inch baking pan. Sprinkle the French fried onions evenly over the top to add a crunchy, savory finish.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. Bake until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and the fried onions on top are golden and crispy. Remove from oven and serve hot.
Notes
- You can substitute leftover cooked chicken with rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- For a lower-fat option, use reduced-fat sour cream and cheese.
- If you prefer a bit more sauce, add an extra ¼ cup of chicken broth.
- Make sure to watch the topping towards the end of baking to avoid burning the fried onions.
- This dish can be prepared ahead and baked just before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
