If you’re craving a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that brings together the bold flavors of French onion soup with the hearty goodness of chicken and cornbread stuffing, this Yum Yum French Onion Chicken Casserole Recipe is your go-to solution. It’s a beautiful marriage of tender cooked chicken, creamy soups, crispy onions, and savory cheesy layers baked to golden perfection. Each bite bursts with incredible texture and flavor, making it perfect for family dinners or potlucks. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will quickly become one of your all-time favorites.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because of its simple but essential ingredients, each adding a critical note in taste, texture, or color. From the creamy sour cream French onion dip to the crunchy fried onions, every component works together in harmony.
- Chopped cooked chicken: The tender protein base that keeps this casserole filling and delicious.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Adds a rich, melty cheesy layer that complements the savory flavors.
- French fried onions (6-oz container, divided): Provide the signature crunch and an irresistible onion aroma.
- Refrigerated sour cream French Onion Dip: Deepens the onion flavor with creamy tanginess that ties the dish together.
- Unsalted Cream of Chicken Soup (two 10.5-oz cans): Offers a smooth base for moisture and savory richness.
- Onion powder: Enhances the oniony goodness without overpowering.
- Garlic powder: Adds subtle warmth and balance to the spices.
- Uncooked cornbread stuffing (6-oz box): Creates a golden, crunchy topping that soaks up flavorful juices.
- Chicken broth: Moistens the stuffing for the perfect tender and crispy texture.
- Melted butter: Brings richness and helps crisp the stuffing topping beautifully.
How to Make Yum Yum French Onion Chicken Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350º Fahrenheit to ensure it’s ready when your casserole is assembled. Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze. This step sets the stage for an easy bake and perfect final presentation.
Step 2: Layer the Chicken, Cheese, and Onions
Spread the chopped cooked chicken evenly as the base layer in the dish. This is where the hearty protein focus sits. Then sprinkle a good handful of French fried onions and shredded cheddar cheese on top of the chicken. These bring savory crunch and melty richness that your taste buds will adore.
Step 3: Mix and Spread the Creamy Soup Layer
In a medium bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, onion powder, garlic powder, and the refrigerated sour cream French Onion Dip. Season with salt and black pepper to your liking. This creamy mixture is what brings moisture, flavor depth, and that iconic French onion vibe to every bite. Spread this mixture evenly over your chicken layer. Then add another generous layer of French fried onions on top for added texture.
Step 4: Add the Stuffing and Broth Mixture
Sprinkle the uncooked cornbread stuffing over the soup and onion layer. If your stuffing mix includes an herb packet that’s separate, be sure to distribute that evenly on top as well. In a small bowl, mix the chicken broth and melted butter and pour this evenly over the entire casserole. This liquid helps the stuffing bake up golden and tender, soaking in all those concentrated flavors.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Bubbling
Place the casserole in your preheated oven and bake uncovered for 30 minutes. This time allows the flavors to meld and the top to become crispy and golden brown. When it comes out bubbling and smelling irresistible, you’ll know you’ve nailed this Yum Yum French Onion Chicken Casserole Recipe.
How to Serve Yum Yum French Onion Chicken Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate the dish even further, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley or chives on top after baking. This adds a pop of color and fresh herb flavor that balances the rich, creamy notes. You could also add a small dollop of sour cream on each serving to boost the creaminess if you love that tangy touch.
Side Dishes
This casserole is wonderfully hearty, so pairing it with lighter, crisp sides makes a perfect meal. Think a fresh green salad tossed in a zesty vinaigrette or steamed green beans with a squeeze of lemon. Roasted veggies like asparagus or broccoli also brighten the plate and complement the deep onion and chicken flavors beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re taking this Yum Yum French Onion Chicken Casserole Recipe to a get-together, serve it in rustic individual ramekins for a fancy touch. Another fun idea is layering it in a clear baking dish to show off the colorful strata of chicken, onions, cheese, and crunchy topping—it’s as stunning as it is delicious!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover your casserole tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors actually mellow and deepen overnight, making leftovers taste even better the next day. Just be sure to reheat thoroughly before serving again.
Freezing
You can freeze the casserole before baking! Assemble completely in a freezer-safe dish, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and then bake following the same instructions. It’s a fantastic make-ahead meal for busy days.
Reheating
To reheat, place leftovers in an oven-safe dish and warm in a 350ºF oven until heated through and crispy on top, about 20-25 minutes. For smaller portions, the microwave can work too, but the oven keeps that signature crispy texture intact beautifully.
FAQs
Can I use fresh onions instead of French fried onions?
Fresh onions will provide great flavor but won’t offer the same crispy texture that French fried onions do. If using fresh, consider sautéing them first to caramelize their sweetness and add that depth, then maybe sprinkle some breadcrumbs on top for crunch.
Is this casserole gluten-free?
This recipe as written includes cornbread stuffing, which often contains gluten. To make it gluten-free, swap the stuffing for a certified gluten-free variety or substitute with crushed gluten-free crackers or cornflakes.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make this dish dairy-free, you’d need to use dairy-free sour cream and cheese substitutes, plus ensure the soup and stuffing mix are dairy-free. There are great plant-based options available that can help you create a delicious alternative.
What kind of chicken works best?
Cooked, shredded or chopped chicken works fine here. Using rotisserie chicken is a quick shortcut that adds flavor, or you can use leftover baked or boiled chicken pieces.
Can I double this recipe for a bigger crowd?
Absolutely! You can double all the ingredients and bake in a larger casserole dish or divide into two pans. Just keep the same temperature and adjust baking time slightly, checking for a golden top and bubbling edges.
Final Thoughts
This Yum Yum French Onion Chicken Casserole Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that combines comfort, flavor, and ease in one delicious package. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, it never fails to impress and satisfy. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and make it your own cozy classic!
Print
Yum Yum French Onion Chicken Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Yum Yum French Onion Chicken Casserole is a hearty and comforting dish combining tender cooked chicken with layers of cheddar cheese, French fried onions, and a creamy soup mixture. Topped with cornbread stuffing and baked to golden perfection, it makes a perfect family-friendly meal that’s easy to prepare and full of rich flavors.
Ingredients
Chicken Layer
- 1½ lb chopped cooked chicken
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 (6-oz) container French fried onions, divided
Sauce Mixture
- 1 cup refrigerated sour cream French Onion Dip
- 2 (10.5-oz) cans unsalted cream of chicken soup
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Topping
- 1 (6-oz) box cornbread stuffing, uncooked (include herb packet if separate)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 4 Tbsp melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC) and lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Layer Chicken and Cheese: Spread the chopped cooked chicken evenly across the bottom of the baking dish. Sprinkle half of the French fried onions and the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the chicken layer.
- Mix and Spread Sauce: In a medium bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, onion powder, garlic powder, refrigerated French onion dip, salt, and black pepper. Stir until smooth. Spread this mixture evenly over the chicken and cheese layer. Then, add another layer of the remaining French fried onions on top.
- Prepare Topping and Assemble: Evenly sprinkle the uncooked cornbread stuffing over the top of the casserole. If the cornbread stuffing comes with a separate herb packet, sprinkle that over as well. Mix together the chicken broth and melted butter, then pour this mixture evenly over the stuffing layer.
- Bake: Place the casserole uncovered in the oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the top is golden and the casserole is heated through.
Notes
- Use cooked chicken leftover from a roast or rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- If you prefer a crispier topping, add a few extra French fried onions just before serving.
- Ensure the cream of chicken soup is unsalted to control sodium levels better.
- Serve this casserole with a side of steamed vegetables or a green salad for a complete meal.
