Description
This Dill Pickle French Onion Chicken Rice Casserole is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines the savory richness of French onion soup with the tangy zest of dill pickles. It’s a creamy, crunchy, and satisfying meal perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 2 cups cooked white rice
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- ½ cup dill pickle juice
- ½ cup finely chopped dill pickles
- 1 packet dry French onion soup mix
- 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1½ cups crispy fried onions, divided
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or chopped dill (optional garnish)
Preparation
Step 1: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken, cooked white rice, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, dill pickle juice, and finely chopped dill pickles.
Step 3: Add the dry French onion soup mix, shredded mozzarella cheese, and 1 cup of crispy fried onions to the mixture. Stir well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
Step 4: Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 5: Spread the chicken and rice mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Top with the remaining ½ cup of crispy fried onions.
Step 6: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
Step 7: Remove from oven and let stand for a few minutes before serving.
Step 8: Garnish with fresh parsley or chopped dill, if desired.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a delicious twist on traditional chicken rice casserole. The dill pickle juice and chopped pickles add a unique tangy flavor that complements the savory chicken and creamy sauce. The crispy fried onions provide a satisfying crunch, making each bite a delightful experience. It’s easy to prepare, uses simple ingredients, and is a crowd-pleaser for family dinners.
DRINK Rating
(D)elightful, (R)efreshing, (I)ntense, (N)ice, (K)ind
Refreshing – pairs well with a light, crisp beverage to balance the casserole’s richness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm as a main course. It pairs well with:
- A simple side salad with a vinaigrette dressing
- Steamed green beans or asparagus
- Garlic bread or dinner rolls
Tips
- For a quicker preparation, use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken.
- Ensure rice is fully cooked before adding to the casserole.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.
- Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream for a lighter option.
- Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as cheddar or Monterey Jack.
- If you don’t have dill pickle juice on hand, you can use a mixture of white vinegar and a pinch of dill.
- To prevent the crispy fried onions from burning, you can add them during the last 10 minutes of baking.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Total Time: 40-45 minutes
Nutritional Information (approximate, per serving)
- Calories: 450-500
- Protein: 30-35g
- Sodium: 800-900mg
(Note: Nutritional information can vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes.)
Conclusion
The Dill Pickle French Onion Chicken Rice Casserole is a creative and tasty dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Its unique flavor combination and easy preparation make it a perfect choice for busy weeknights. Enjoy the creamy, tangy, and crunchy goodness!
Questions and Answers About This Recipe
- Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
- Yes, you can substitute brown rice for white rice. However, keep in mind that brown rice takes longer to cook, so ensure it is fully cooked before adding it to the casserole. You may also need to adjust the baking time slightly.
- Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
- Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, add a few minutes to the baking time to ensure it is heated through.
- What if I don’t like dill pickles? Can I substitute them with something else?
- If you’re not a fan of dill pickles, you can try substituting them with sweet pickles or omit them altogether. You can also add other vegetables like chopped celery or bell peppers for added flavor and texture.
- Can I freeze this casserole?
- Yes, you can freeze the casserole. Allow it to cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When ready to serve, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.
- What can I do if the top of the casserole is browning too quickly?
- If the top of the casserole is browning too quickly, you can tent it with aluminum foil during the last 10-15 minutes of baking. This will prevent it from burning while allowing the inside to cook through.
