If you are searching for a comforting yet effortless weeknight meal, this Dump-and-Bake Chicken Alfredo Rice Casserole is going to be your new best friend. Packed with tender shredded rotisserie chicken, creamy Alfredo sauce, and fluffy rice all baked together in one dish, this casserole delivers rich flavors and cozy vibes with minimal prep. The blend of juicy chicken, melty cheese, and subtle Italian herbs creates a cozy harmony that’s impossible not to love. It’s the perfect recipe to throw together when you want something hearty, homestyle, and utterly satisfying without the fuss.

Dump-and-Bake Chicken Alfredo Rice Casserole Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple, easy-to-find ingredients that come together beautifully to create a dish bursting with flavor and texture. Each element plays a vital role—from the creamy Alfredo sauce lending silkiness to the rice soaking up all those tasty juices, to the cheese melting into a gooey topping that will have everyone asking for seconds.

2 cups cooked rotisserie chicken: Shredded chicken adds tender, savory protein with minimal effort.
1 cup uncooked white rice: Long-grain or jasmine rice works best for a fluffy, light base.
3 cups chicken broth: Provides depth and moisture, cooking the rice right in the casserole.
1 cup Alfredo sauce: Use store-bought or homemade for creamy, cheesy richness.
1 cup frozen peas and carrots (optional): Adds a pop of color and subtle sweetness.
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: For that irresistible melted, bubbly topping.
½ teaspoon garlic powder: Brings warm, savory notes without overpowering.
½ teaspoon Italian seasoning: Classic herb blend enhances the overall flavor.
Salt and pepper, to taste: To balance and brighten all the flavors.
Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional): Adds a fresh, vibrant finish.
4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled (optional): A smoky, crunchy topping that’s pure indulgence.

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

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Mix

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, uncooked rice, chicken broth, Alfredo sauce, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. This creates the flavorful base where the rice will absorb all those delicious liquids as it cooks.

Step 2: Add the Veggies

If you’re incorporating frozen peas and carrots, stir them in now. They add lovely texture and a gentle sweetness that balances the creamy sauce beautifully while lightening up the casserole.

Step 3: Transfer to Baking Dish

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and spread the mixture evenly inside. Cover it tightly with aluminum foil—this traps steam and ensures the rice cooks perfectly tender, soaking up every bit of flavor.

Step 4: Bake Covered

Pop the covered casserole into the oven and bake for 45 minutes. This step lets the rice soften thoroughly, and the flavors meld together in a cozy, harmonious blend.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Optional Bacon

After 45 minutes, carefully remove the foil. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella evenly across the top, and if you’re using it, sprinkle crumbled cooked bacon as well. Return the dish to the oven, uncovered, and bake for another 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once out of the oven, adorn your casserole with fresh parsley for a burst of color and light herbal note. Serve hot and enjoy the comforting hug of this Dump-and-Bake Chicken Alfredo Rice Casserole right away!

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

Garnishes

Fresh parsley is a simple yet elegant garnish that adds a slight peppery freshness to the rich casserole. A sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper or a pinch of red pepper flakes can also elevate each bite with a subtle kick.

Side Dishes

This casserole is hearty enough to be a centerpiece, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or steamed broccoli brings a refreshing contrast in texture and adds a lively balance to the meal. Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls also complement it wonderfully by soaking up any extra sauce on your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving this casserole in individual ramekins for a charming, personalized touch—perfect for dinner parties or cozy family nights. You can also top it with sliced avocado or a dollop of sour cream to add creaminess and a new layer of flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Dump-and-Bake Chicken Alfredo Rice Casserole keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making cold or reheated portions just as tasty.

Freezing

This casserole freezes beautifully for up to 2 months. To freeze, bake the casserole fully, then cool completely before wrapping it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat individual servings in the microwave or reheat the entire casserole in a 350°F (175°C) oven covered with foil for about 20 minutes until warmed through. Adding a splash of chicken broth or water before reheating helps keep the rice moist and tender.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of rice for this casserole?

Yes, long-grain and jasmine rice work best for light, fluffy results, but you can experiment with basmati or even brown rice. Keep in mind that cooking times may need to be adjusted since different rice varieties absorb liquid differently.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely! Swap the Alfredo sauce with a dairy-free alternative or make a sauce using coconut milk and nutritional yeast. Also, choose a dairy-free cheese substitute to sprinkle on top for that melty finish.

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time before baking?

You sure can! Assemble the casserole the night before, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready, pop it in the oven and bake as directed, just add a few extra minutes if the casserole is cold from the fridge.

What if I don’t have rotisserie chicken?

No worries! You can use cooked chicken breasts or thighs, shredded or diced. Leftover roast or grilled chicken also works perfectly—it’s a great way to transform simple ingredients into something special.

Can I add other vegetables to the casserole?

Definitely! Feel free to toss in chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach, or broccoli florets for extra nutrition and color. Just consider their cooking times and chop accordingly for even baking.

Final Thoughts

Once you try this Dump-and-Bake Chicken Alfredo Rice Casserole, it will become a staple in your recipe box for easy, comforting meals. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug after a long day and impresses without hours in the kitchen. So do yourself a favor and give this recipe a whirl—you’ll be delighted by how effortlessly delicious it turns out every single time.

Dump-and-Bake Chicken Alfredo Rice Casserole Recipe

★★★★★

5.1 from 8 reviews

Author: Olivia
Total Time: 1 hour 5 mins
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Low Lactose

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Description

This Dump-and-Bake Chicken Alfredo Rice Casserole is a comforting and easy one-dish meal combining tender shredded rotisserie chicken, creamy Alfredo sauce, and fluffy cooked rice baked to perfection with melty mozzarella cheese on top. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy dinner, with optional add-ins like peas, carrots, and crispy bacon to customize your flavors.

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it ready for baking the casserole.
Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, uncooked rice, chicken broth, Alfredo sauce, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, stirring thoroughly to evenly distribute all the seasonings and liquids.
Add Vegetables: Stir in frozen peas and carrots if you choose to include them, adding a pop of color and extra nutrients.
Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
Bake Covered: Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes, allowing the rice to cook fully and absorb the flavorful liquids.
Add Cheese and Bacon: Remove the foil, sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top, and add crumbled bacon if using.
Bake Uncovered: Bake uncovered for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
Garnish and Serve: Garnish the casserole with fresh parsley if desired and serve hot for a comforting meal.

Notes

Check the rice for doneness before adding cheese; bake longer if the rice isn’t fully cooked.
Swap mozzarella for cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese for a different flavor profile.
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the mixture for a spicy kick.
This casserole freezes well for up to 2 months; thaw fully before reheating.

Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 55 mins
Category: Dinner, Casserole
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American