If you’re looking for a comforting, effortless weeknight dinner that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Dump-and-Bake Chicken Alfredo Rice Casserole is exactly what you need. Combining tender shredded rotisserie chicken, creamy Alfredo sauce, and perfectly cooked rice all baked together, this dish is a marriage of ease and indulgence. It’s a one-dish wonder that demands hardly any prep but guarantees maximum flavor and satisfaction every time.

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

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients here are straightforward and pantry-friendly, making this recipe perfect even on busy days. Each element plays a vital role in building layers of creamy, savory goodness while adding texture, color, and that comforting homemade feel.

2 cups cooked rotisserie chicken: Using pre-cooked chicken saves time and adds rich, moist protein.
1 cup uncooked white rice (long-grain or jasmine): This becomes tender and fluffy during baking, soaking up all the flavors.
3 cups chicken broth: Helps cook the rice and infuses the casserole with savory depth.
1 cup Alfredo sauce: Brings creamy decadence and luscious texture to the dish.
1 cup frozen peas and carrots (optional): Adds a pop of color and subtle sweetness, balancing the richness.
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully for a gooey, cheesy topping.
½ teaspoon garlic powder: Adds aromatic warmth without overpowering.
½ teaspoon Italian seasoning: Brings a hint of herbaceous brightness.
Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning every layer perfectly.
Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional): A touch of freshness and visual appeal at the end.
4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled (optional, for topping): Adds smoky crunch if you want to take it up a notch.

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

Step 1: Preheat and prepare the base

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures it’s ready to go once your mixture is prepared, allowing for consistent and even baking. Next, grab a large mixing bowl to assemble your base ingredients: shredded chicken, uncooked rice, chicken broth, Alfredo sauce, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

Step 2: Add the veggies

If you’re including frozen peas and carrots, now’s the time to stir them in. These frozen veggies add a burst of color and a nice textural contrast that brightens up the creamy casserole perfectly.

Step 3: Transfer and cover

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking, then pour in your mixture evenly. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil—this traps steam, helping the rice cook through and keeping all those flavors melded beautifully.

Step 4: Bake covered

Bake the covered dish for 45 minutes. This is the magic window where the rice absorbs the flavorful broth and Alfredo sauce, melding with the chicken and veggies to create a creamy, hearty base. Make sure not to skip this step, as it’s essential for the texture.

Step 5: Add toppings and finish baking

Remove the foil and sprinkle mozzarella cheese evenly across the top. If you’re a bacon fan, crumble cooked bacon over the cheese for a delicious crunch and smoky flair. Return the casserole to the oven uncovered for another 10-15 minutes until the cheese bubbles and browns to perfection.

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

Garnishes

While the cheesy golden brown topping is pure comfort, a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top adds a burst of vibrant color and a refreshing herbal note. It brightens the dish visually and flavor-wise, making every plate look and taste like a special meal.

Side Dishes

This casserole is quite the star on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or some roasted vegetables adds balance and crunch. Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls can also help scoop up every last creamy bite, making your meal wonderfully complete.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve this Dump-and-Bake Chicken Alfredo Rice Casserole in individual ramekins. That way, everyone gets their own personal cheesy, saucy bowl of comfort. You can even add different toppings like sautéed mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or a sprinkle of Parmesan for some variety at the table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate. The casserole holds up well for 3-4 days and tastes just as comforting when reheated. Be sure to keep it covered to retain moisture and flavor.

Freezing

This dish freezes beautifully for up to 2 months. Before freezing, cover your baking dish tightly with foil or transfer portions into freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the fridge for easiest reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil to prevent drying out, or microwave individual portions for a quick lunch fix. Stir once halfway through microwaving for even heating and return to melty, creamy goodness in no time.

FAQs

Can I use fresh chicken instead of rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! You can cook and shred fresh chicken breasts or thighs, then add them to the casserole. Rotisserie chicken just speeds things up and adds a lovely seasoned flavor.

Do I need to cook the rice before baking?

Nope! The rice cooks right in the casserole while baking, soaking up the broth and Alfredo sauce for perfect tenderness.

Can I substitute other cheeses for mozzarella?

Definitely. Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a blend works great and offers a slightly different flavor profile while maintaining the gooey texture.

Is it possible to make this casserole gluten-free?

Yes! Just be sure to use gluten-free Alfredo sauce and chicken broth, and confirm all your seasonings are gluten-free to keep it safe for those with sensitivities.

Can I add other vegetables?

Of course! Feel free to mix in broccoli, mushrooms, bell peppers, or any favorite veggies to add extra nutrition and variety to this already tasty Dump-and-Bake Chicken Alfredo Rice Casserole.

Final Thoughts

This Dump-and-Bake Chicken Alfredo Rice Casserole is truly one of those magical dishes that delivers big on flavor with little fuss. It’s creamy, comforting, and perfect for busy nights when you want something nourishing and delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. I can’t encourage you enough to give this recipe a try—you’ll probably find it becoming one of your go-to family favorites too!

Dump-and-Bake Chicken Alfredo Rice Casserole Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 26 reviews

Author: Lily
Total Time: 1 hr 5 mins
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Low Fat

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Description

This Dump-and-Bake Chicken Alfredo Rice Casserole is a comforting, easy-to-make one-dish meal combining tender shredded chicken, creamy Alfredo sauce, and fluffy rice baked to cheesy perfection. Perfect for busy weeknights, this casserole blends savory flavors and wholesome ingredients for a satisfying dinner that the whole family will love.

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature for baking the casserole evenly.
Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, uncooked rice, chicken broth, Alfredo sauce, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir well to evenly distribute the flavors.
Add Vegetables: Stir in the frozen peas and carrots if you’re using them. They add color, nutrition, and a slight sweetness to the dish.
Prepare Baking Dish: Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spreading it out evenly helps the rice cook uniformly.
Bake Covered: Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap steam and bake for 45 minutes. This step cooks the rice while keeping the casserole moist.
Add Cheese and Bacon: Remove the foil, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and crumbled cooked bacon over the top if using. Return the casserole to the oven uncovered.
Bake Uncovered: Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot for a delicious, hearty meal.

Notes

Check the rice for doneness before adding the cheese; if the rice needs more time, cover and bake longer.
Swap mozzarella for cheddar or Monterey Jack for a different cheesy flavor.
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the mixture for a spicy kick.
This casserole freezes well for up to 2 months—cool completely before freezing in an airtight container.

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