Christmas Dinner Backup”: Only 4 ingredients. I make this every Christmas when I need a fail-safe dish

This incredibly easy dinner delivers rich, bistro-style flavor with almost no prep. A simple combination of French onion soup and cream of chicken soup creates a savory, onion-filled sauce, while melted Swiss cheese adds a cozy finishing touch. The result is tender chicken coated in a flavorful gravy that’s perfect served over rice or mashed potatoes. It’s a budget-friendly, weeknight-friendly casserole that feels comforting and satisfying.

4-Ingredient French Onion Chicken Casserole

Ingredients

Ingredient Quantity
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs 1 1/2 to 2 pounds
Condensed cream of chicken soup 1 can (10 1/2 ounces)
Condensed French onion soup 1 can (10 1/2 ounces)
Shredded Swiss or Gruyere cheese 1 1/2 cups

Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Dish
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch or similar oven-safe casserole dish.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Pat the chicken dry and trim away any excess fat. Arrange the pieces in a single layer in the prepared baking dish.

Step 3: Mix the Sauce
In a medium bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup and French onion soup until smooth. Do not add water or milk, as the condensed soups will create a thick, flavorful gravy as they bake.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken
Pour the soup mixture evenly over the chicken, making sure each piece is well covered and the sauce spreads into the corners of the dish.

Step 5: First Bake
Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

Step 6: Add the Cheese
Remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded Swiss or Gruyere evenly over the top. Return the dish to the oven uncovered and bake for 10–15 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.

Step 7: Rest and Serve
Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes so the sauce thickens slightly. Serve warm, spooning plenty of the rich onion gravy over the chicken.