1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial for ensuring even cooking.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. My kids love helping with this step; they enjoy watching the chicken change color!
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, French onion soup, sour cream, and chicken broth. Stir until everything is well mixed.
4. Add the cooked chicken to the rice mixture and fold in half of the shredded cheddar cheese. This part is where the magic happens—your kitchen will smell incredible!
5. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly.
6. Top the casserole with the remaining cheddar cheese. Don’t be shy; cheese is always a good idea!
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. This is the moment you’ve been waiting for—your family will start to gather, drawn by the mouthwatering scent.
8. Let it cool for a few minutes, then sprinkle with chopped green onions before serving. It adds a lovely color and freshness that contrasts beautifully with the richness of the dish.

As I’ve learned from my own kitchen adventures, patience is key! Letting the casserole rest for a few minutes helps it set up nicely and makes serving easier.