Bake Chicken Alfredo Rice Casserole Recipe

Introduction

Chicken Alfredo Rice Casserole is a comforting and easy-to-make dish that combines creamy Alfredo sauce, tender chicken, and fluffy rice. Perfect for busy weeknights, this casserole requires minimal prep and bakes into a cheesy, flavorful meal the whole family will enjoy.

A rectangular white ceramic baking dish holds a creamy baked pasta casserole with about two layers. The base layer shows tightly packed spiral pasta coated in a pale yellow sauce. The top layer is melted light golden cheese with small bits of finely chopped green herbs sprinkled all over. Some fresh parsley leaves are scattered on top, adding a pop of green color. One corner of the casserole is scooped out, showing the inside layers. The dish sits on a soft blue cloth over a white marbled surface. Nearby, a small white bowl contains lemon wedges, and a white plate with extra baked pasta is in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

  • 2 cups uncooked rice (white or brown)
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 pound cooked chicken, shredded or diced
  • 2 cups Alfredo sauce
  • 1 cup broccoli florets (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Step 2: In a large baking dish, combine the uncooked rice and chicken broth. Stir to ensure the rice is evenly distributed.
  3. Step 3: Mix in the shredded or diced chicken and Alfredo sauce, making sure the chicken is well-coated with the sauce.
  4. Step 4: Sprinkle in the garlic powder and Italian seasoning. Add salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Step 5: If using, fold the broccoli florets gently into the mixture.
  6. Step 6: Top the mixture evenly with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses.
  7. Step 7: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
  8. Step 8: Remove the foil and bake an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
  9. Step 9: Remove from oven and let rest for about 5 minutes to allow the casserole to set.
  10. Step 10: Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot.

Tips & Variations

  • For added flavor, try stirring in sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers before baking.
  • Use low-sodium chicken broth to better control the seasoning level.
  • Swap mozzarella for Monterey Jack or cheddar for a different cheese profile.
  • Brown rice may require a slightly longer baking time and extra liquid; check doneness before serving.

Storage

Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through. You can also freeze the casserole for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

How to Serve

A close-up view of a serving of creamy chicken casserole on a white plate with a ridged edge, showing two main layers: the top layer is a golden brown crispy breadcrumb crust with small browned spots, and the bottom layer is a creamy mixture of shredded white chicken and green peas in a white sauce. Some crumbs and peas are scattered around the plate on a white marbled surface background, with a glass baking dish in the background containing the rest of the casserole. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh chicken instead of cooked chicken?

Yes, but you’ll need to cook the chicken first before mixing it into the casserole to ensure it’s fully cooked and tender.

Is it possible to make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely. Prepare the casserole and keep it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.

Print

Bake Chicken Alfredo Rice Casserole Recipe

This Bake Chicken Alfredo Rice Casserole is a creamy, comforting, and easy one-dish meal combining tender chicken, rich Alfredo sauce, and perfectly cooked rice. Enhanced with Italian seasoning and optional broccoli, it’s topped with a golden layer of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, making it a family-friendly dinner that’s simple to prepare and bake all in one dish.

  • Author: Maya
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2 cups uncooked rice (white or brown)
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 pound cooked chicken, shredded or diced
  • 2 cups Alfredo sauce
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Vegetables (Optional)

  • 1 cup broccoli florets (optional)

Cheeses

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Garnish

  • Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature by the time you have combined all the ingredients.
  2. Prepare Baking Dish: In a large baking dish, combine the uncooked rice and chicken broth. Stir well so the rice is evenly distributed within the broth, setting a foundation for even cooking.
  3. Add Chicken and Sauce: Mix in the shredded or diced cooked chicken and creamy Alfredo sauce thoroughly, making sure every piece of chicken is coated with the sauce for maximum flavor.
  4. Season: Sprinkle the garlic powder and Italian seasoning over the mixture. Add salt and pepper according to your taste preferences and give it a gentle mix to evenly distribute the spices.
  5. Incorporate Broccoli: If using broccoli, gently fold the florets into the mixture to add freshness and a pop of color without bruising the vegetables.
  6. Cheese It Up: Generously top the mixture with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese, distributing them evenly to cover the surface for a melty, golden finish.
  7. Cover and Bake: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap steam and help cook the rice through. Place in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes.
  8. Final Bake: Remove the foil carefully and bake uncovered for an additional 15 minutes or until the cheese topping is bubbly and golden brown, indicating the casserole is fully cooked.
  9. Let it Rest: Pull the casserole from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes to allow it to set and cool slightly, which helps with serving portions.
  10. Garnish and Serve: Optionally sprinkle fresh parsley over the casserole for a bright, herbal finish. Serve hot and enjoy this hearty, creamy meal!

Notes

  • You can substitute white rice with brown rice, but you may need to increase the baking time slightly and/or add extra broth.
  • Cooked chicken can be rotisserie chicken, grilled, or leftover chicken for convenience.
  • For a lower-fat version, use a light Alfredo sauce and reduced-fat cheeses.
  • Adding broccoli or other vegetables like mushrooms or peas can boost nutrition and flavor.
  • If desired, top with extra Parmesan before the final bake for a crispier crust.
  • Letting the casserole rest helps it set, making it easier to serve and enhancing flavors.

Keywords: Chicken Alfredo, Rice Casserole, One Dish Meal, Baked Chicken, Comfort Food, Easy Dinner

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