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.
- 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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Incorporate Broccoli: If using broccoli, gently fold the florets into the mixture to add freshness and a pop of color without bruising the vegetables.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
