Dump-and-Bake Chicken Alfredo Rice Casserole Recipe

If comfort food had a hero, the Dump-and-Bake Chicken Alfredo Rice Casserole Recipe would wear the cape! This cozy casserole blends tender rotisserie chicken, creamy Alfredo sauce, just-cooked rice, and gooey cheese into one irresistible, oven-baked hug of a dinner. Everything combines easily in one dish—no need to precook the rice or mess with multiple pans. Each forkful delivers savory flavors, gooey cheese, and a subtle mix of herbs that will have your friends and family asking for seconds (and maybe even thirds). Whether you’re feeding a hungry crew after a busy day or looking for something extra-simple for a Sunday supper, this recipe is effortless, satisfying, and sure to become a regular at your table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Only a handful of simple ingredients stand between you and a bubbling, steaming casserole. Each ingredient serves a special purpose, helping create that creamy, dreamy texture—or adding bursts of flavor or color. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need to bring this Dump-and-Bake Chicken Alfredo Rice Casserole Recipe to life:

• Cooked rotisserie chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken is a massive time-saver, packing in delicious roasted flavor and tender texture.
• Uncooked white rice (long-grain or jasmine): Raw rice soaks up all the savory goodness during baking, coming out perfectly fluffy and infused with flavor.
• Chicken broth: Essential for cooking the rice and keeping everything moist; it deepens the savory taste of the casserole.
• Alfredo sauce: Whether you use store-bought or homemade, this creamy sauce ties everything together with richness and a slight garlicky tang.
• Frozen peas and carrots (optional): These add welcome pops of color, crunch, and a bit of sweetness—completely optional, but a fun veggie boost.
• Shredded mozzarella cheese: Sprinkled on top for that gorgeous, melty finish—it’s the part everyone fights over!
• Garlic powder: Enhances the aroma and gives gentle, mellow garlic flavor throughout the dish.
• Italian seasoning: This blend adds aromatic, herby notes that lift the flavor of the Alfredo without overpowering it.
• Salt and pepper: Season to taste for the right savory depth and a hint of gentle heat.
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional): A sprinkle at the end adds brightness and a touch of freshness right before serving.

How to Make Dump-and-Bake Chicken Alfredo Rice Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats up, grab a large 9×13 inch baking dish and give it a quick spritz of nonstick spray or a brush of oil. This ensures the rice doesn’t stick and makes serving later a breeze. This small step makes cleanup so much easier!

Step 2: Mix It All Together

In a roomy mixing bowl, combine your shredded rotisserie chicken, uncooked white rice, chicken broth, Alfredo sauce, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. If you’re adding the peas and carrots, pop them in now (no need to thaw first). Stir well so that every grain of rice is coated and all the ingredients are evenly distributed. The uncooked rice will soak up all the delicious flavor as it bakes!

Step 3: Fill the Baking Dish

Pour the mixture directly into your greased baking dish. Spread it out with a spoon or spatula until it’s in an even layer. This helps everything bake at the same rate and ensures the rice cooks through perfectly—no crunchy bits or undercooked surprises.

Step 4: Bake Covered

Cover your casserole tightly with aluminum foil and place it on the middle rack of your preheated oven. Bake for 45 minutes. The foil traps the steam inside, allowing the rice to cook through fully and take on all those wonderful herby, creamy flavors.

Step 5: Top with Cheese and Finish Baking

After 45 minutes, carefully remove the foil (watch out for the hot steam!). Sprinkle an even layer of shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of your casserole. Slide the dish back into the oven, uncovered, and bake for another 10 to 15 minutes, until the cheese is spectacularly melted and golden-bubbly at the edges.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove your casserole from the oven and, if you like, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and a bit of fresh flavor. Scoop hearty portions onto plates while it’s piping hot—you’ll want to get that cheesy pull with every serving!

How to Serve Dump-and-Bake Chicken Alfredo Rice Casserole Recipe

Garnishes

The finishing touches take your Dump-and-Bake Chicken Alfredo Rice Casserole Recipe from tasty to showstopping. Fresh parsley is classic, but feel free to sprinkle on chopped chives, a touch of grated Parmesan, or even some cracked black pepper for contrast. A light zest of lemon on top works wonders too, brightening up the creaminess for special occasions.

Side Dishes

This casserole holds its own as a hearty main but truly shines with the right companions. Try serving it next to a crisp green salad dressed with vinaigrette, roasted asparagus, or simple sautéed spinach. For something extra cozy, pair it with warm garlic bread or fluffy dinner rolls to mop up every last bit of Alfredo sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For potlucks or parties, scoop the casserole into individual ramekins before baking for adorable, personal servings. You can also spoon leftovers into roasted bell pepper halves and bake again for a colorful, veggie-forward twist. And for ultimate comfort, serve it in wide, shallow bowls with an extra sprinkle of cheese on top and a fresh sprig of parsley on the side.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After dinner, let the casserole cool to room temperature. Transfer leftovers into an airtight container and refrigerate—they’ll stay fresh for up to four days. The rice will continue to absorb flavor, making each reheated bite even tastier!

Freezing

If you want to stock your freezer, this Dump-and-Bake Chicken Alfredo Rice Casserole Recipe freezes beautifully. Let the cooked casserole cool completely, then portion into freezer-safe containers or tightly wrap the dish with plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to three months for an easy future meal. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, simply cover the casserole with foil and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through—usually 20 to 30 minutes, depending on portion size. For a quick lunch, microwave individual portions, adding a splash of broth or milk if the rice looks dry. Either way, you’ll bring back that just-baked creaminess and flavor.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Brown rice needs a longer cooking time and extra liquid to become tender. If you’d like to substitute, add at least 1/2 cup more broth and increase baking time by 15 to 20 minutes. Make sure to check the rice for doneness before topping with cheese.

Can I make the Dump-and-Bake Chicken Alfredo Rice Casserole Recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole (without baking) up to 24 hours in advance. Cover tightly and refrigerate, then bake as directed—just add 5 to 10 extra minutes since it will start colder.

What Alfredo sauce should I use?

Feel free to use your favorite store-bought Alfredo sauce for convenience. If you have the time, homemade versions add an extra layer of fresh flavor—choose whichever fits your schedule best!

Can I add other vegetables or swap the protein?

You sure can! This recipe is built for flexibility. Try stirring in fresh spinach, mushrooms, or steamed broccoli. Swap the chicken with leftover turkey, diced ham, or even cooked shrimp for delicious variety.

Why is my rice undercooked?

If the rice is still firm after baking, it’s likely due to either a too-tightly packed dish, a cooler oven, or using a rice variety that needs more liquid. Simply add a splash more broth, cover, and return to the oven for another 10 to 15 minutes until tender.

Final Thoughts

If you love a no-fuss dinner that brings everyone running to the table, the Dump-and-Bake Chicken Alfredo Rice Casserole Recipe won’t let you down! Cozy, creamy, and loaded with flavor, it’s the kind of dish that feels like a weeknight win and a special treat all at once. Give it a try soon—you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it.

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