If you’ve been on the hunt for a comforting, effortless dish that feels like a warm hug from your oven, then this Dump-and-Bake Chicken Alfredo Rice Casserole is exactly what your dinner table needs. Picture tender, shredded rotisserie chicken mingling with creamy Alfredo sauce, perfectly cooked rice soaking up rich chicken broth, and a melty mozzarella top that has just the right amount of golden, bubbly goodness. This casserole is not just a meal; it’s an experience that combines ease, flavor, and satisfaction — no complicated steps or fussing required, just pure deliciousness in one pan.

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

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Dump-and-Bake Chicken Alfredo Rice Casserole lies in its simplicity. Every ingredient plays a crucial role, whether it’s building layers of flavor, adding vibrant color, or creating creamy, dreamy textures. With just a handful of staples, you’re well on your way to a hearty, unforgettable meal.

Cooked rotisserie chicken: Using pre-cooked chicken saves time and infuses a smoky depth, making the dish easy and flavorful.
Uncooked white rice: Long-grain or jasmine rice works best to absorb all the creamy, savory juices.
Chicken broth: This adds moisture and a savory base that makes every bite rich without being heavy.
Alfredo sauce: Store-bought or homemade, it’s the luscious, creamy heart of the casserole.
Frozen peas and carrots (optional): For a pop of color and a subtle sweetness, they brighten up both taste and presentation.
Shredded mozzarella cheese: This is the gooey, golden crowning glory that melts perfectly atop the casserole.
Garlic powder: Adds gentle warmth and depth without overpowering the dish.
Italian seasoning: Brings classic herbaceous notes that complement the creamy Alfredo beautifully.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning to balance and heighten the flavors.
Fresh parsley (optional): A bright, fresh garnish that adds a pop of color and mild herbal freshness.
Cooked bacon (optional): Crispy, crumbled bacon is an irresistible topping that adds smoky crunch.

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

Step 1: Preheat and Combine

First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl, toss together shredded rotisserie chicken, uncooked rice, chicken broth, Alfredo sauce, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. This is where the magic begins — making sure everything is well mixed ensures that every spoonful of casserole will deliver those cozy layers of flavor.

Step 2: Add Veggies

If you love a little pop of color and nutrition, stir in frozen peas and carrots right now. They are optional but highly recommended because they add both sweetness and a tender crispness that balance the creamy base perfectly.

Step 3: Transfer to Baking Dish

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking, then pour your mixture in, spreading it out evenly. This simple step sets the stage for your casserole to bake beautifully, allowing the rice to cook as it soaks in all that velvety Alfredo sauce and broth.

Step 4: Bake Covered

Cover your dish tightly with aluminum foil and pop it into the oven for 45 minutes. This steam-traps moisture, letting the rice cook through gently while flavors meld together like best friends gathering for dinner.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Bacon

After the initial bake, carefully remove the foil and sprinkle shredded mozzarella all over the top. If you’re feeling indulgent, add crumbled cooked bacon for an irresistible smoky crunch. Return the casserole to the oven uncovered and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once your Dump-and-Bake Chicken Alfredo Rice Casserole is beautifully browned and bubbly, garnish with fresh parsley for a burst of color and a hint of fresh flavor. Serve it hot and watch everyone’s faces light up with pure delight.

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

Garnishes

Simple fresh parsley really lifts the dish visually and flavor-wise. For a little extra flair, a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan or a few red pepper flakes can add an exciting twist. Crispy bacon bits on top also elevate it with savory crunch.

Side Dishes

This casserole pairs beautifully with crisp green salads, steamed broccoli, or roasted asparagus to add fresh, crisp textures and balance the richness. Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls also complement it perfectly if you want to keep things comforting and hearty.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive gathering, serve in individual ramekins topped with a colorful parsley sprig. Or layer the casserole in a clear glass dish to show off the creamy texture and vibrant veggies. This recipe is versatile enough to adapt from weeknight dinners to fancy potlucks.

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. Just cover and chill promptly to preserve the creamy texture and fresh flavors.

Freezing

This casserole freezes wonderfully for up to 2 months. Bake it fully, then cool completely before wrapping tightly with foil or placing in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil to maintain moisture, for about 20 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, microwave individual portions on medium power, stirring halfway to keep the creamy richness intact.

FAQs

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

Yes, you can substitute long-grain or jasmine rice with brown rice, but note that brown rice will take longer to cook. You might need to adjust the baking time and liquid accordingly.

Is it possible to make this casserole vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply omit the chicken and bacon, and add extra veggies or plant-based protein like mushrooms or tofu. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to keep it vegetarian.

Can I use homemade Alfredo sauce instead of store-bought?

Definitely. Homemade Alfredo sauce will enhance the casserole’s flavor even more, giving it a rich, fresh creaminess that’s hard to beat.

How do I know when the rice is fully cooked in the casserole?

After baking for 45 minutes covered, check the rice by tasting a small spoonful. If it’s still firm, bake for 10–15 minutes longer before adding the cheese.

Can I prepare this casserole in advance and bake it later?

Yes, prepare the casserole mixture, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake it as directed, adding a few extra minutes to account for the cold start.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend giving the Dump-and-Bake Chicken Alfredo Rice Casserole a try enough — it’s comfort food made ridiculously easy and utterly delicious. Whether you’re a busy weeknight cook or a weekend recipe gatherer, this dish offers a perfect blend of creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors that everyone will adore. So grab those simple ingredients and get baking; your new favorite casserole awaits!

Dump-and-Bake Chicken Alfredo Rice Casserole Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 17 reviews

Author: Lily
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Low Fat

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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 perfectly cooked rice. Enhanced with peas and carrots for added color and nutrition, this casserole is topped with melted mozzarella cheese and optionally crispy bacon, making it a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep.

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it reaches the ideal temperature for baking the casserole evenly.
Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, mix together the shredded rotisserie chicken, uncooked white rice, chicken broth, Alfredo sauce, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until well incorporated.
Add Vegetables: If using, stir in the frozen peas and carrots to add color, nutrition, and texture to the casserole.
Transfer to Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly with butter or non-stick spray, then pour the mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly.
Bake Covered: Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. This allows the rice to absorb the liquid and cook thoroughly.
Add Cheese and Bacon: Remove the foil carefully, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top, and add the crumbled cooked bacon if desired for extra flavor and crunch.
Bake Uncovered: Return the casserole to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
Garnish and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven, garnish with fresh parsley if using, and serve hot for a creamy and satisfying meal.

Notes

Check the rice for doneness before adding cheese; if it needs more time, bake uncovered a bit longer.
Substitute mozzarella with cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese for a different cheesy 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. To reheat, thaw overnight and warm in the oven until heated through.

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