Dump-and-Bake Chicken Alfredo Rice Casserole Recipe

If you’re craving a hearty, comforting meal that practically makes itself, this Dump-and-Bake Chicken Alfredo Rice Casserole is your new best friend. It’s a luscious blend of tender shredded chicken, creamy Alfredo sauce, and fluffy rice, all baked together with savory seasonings and melty mozzarella. The beauty lies in its simplicity—just toss everything in one dish and let the oven do the magic. Whether for a busy weeknight dinner or a casual gathering, this dish delivers rich flavor with minimal effort, making it a true lifesaver in the kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Dump-and-Bake Chicken Alfredo Rice Casserole comes from a handful of everyday ingredients that combine for maximum taste, texture, and visual appeal. Each component plays a role, from the comforting creaminess of Alfredo sauce to the subtle pop of sweet peas and carrots, creating a balanced and satisfying dish.

• 2 cups cooked rotisserie chicken: Perfectly shredded, it brings juicy, savory depth with zero fuss in cooking the meat.
• 1 cup uncooked white rice: Long-grain or jasmine rice works beautifully to absorb all the creamy flavors as it bakes.
• 3 cups chicken broth: Adds moisture and an extra layer of savory richness that infuses the rice while baking.
• 1 cup Alfredo sauce: Whether store-bought or homemade, this sauce is the star that ties creamy indulgence to every bite.
• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots (optional): Adds color, texture, and a mildly sweet crunch that brightens the casserole.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts to golden perfection, creating a gooey, irresistible topping.
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Lends a subtle, warming depth enhancing the overall flavor profile.
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend of herbs that infuses the dish with classic Italian vibes.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasoning for perfectly balanced flavor.
• Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional): Adds a pop of freshness and a beautiful finish before serving.

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

Step 1: Preheat and Prep Your Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven warms, shred the rotisserie chicken if you haven’t already, and gather the rest of your ingredients. Having everything ready makes the dumping process seamless and stress-free.

Step 2: Combine the Ingredients in a Baking Dish

Grab a large casserole dish and add the uncooked rice first. Pour the chicken broth over the rice to ensure even hydration. Next, add the shredded chicken, Alfredo sauce, frozen peas and carrots, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Give it a gentle stir to combine everything just enough so the rice is evenly coated but you don’t want to over-mix and risk breaking down the chicken chunks.

Step 3: Add Cheese and Bake

Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly over the top of the casserole. This layer of cheese will melt and brown beautifully as it bakes, creating a delicious, gooey crust that’s impossible to resist. Cover the casserole dish tightly with foil to keep the moisture in and bake for about 45 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed.

Step 4: Finish Baking Uncovered

Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes to let the cheese brown and bubble to a perfect golden finish. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn. Once it’s beautifully bubbly, take it out of the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes—the flavors will settle and the casserole will firm up slightly for easier serving.

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

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley is the easiest and most effective way to enhance both the appearance and flavor. The bright herb adds a fresh contrast to the creamy casserole’s rich texture. You can also consider a light dusting of grated Parmesan for an extra touch of cheesiness and umami.

Side Dishes

This casserole stands strong on its own but pairs beautifully with a crisp side salad dressed in a zesty vinaigrette to cut through the creaminess. Roasted or steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus bring vibrant color and nutrition, lifting the meal to a well-rounded dinner that’s as balanced as it is delicious.

Creative Ways to Present

For a family-style meal, serve the casserole directly from the baking dish with fresh breadsticks on the side to soak up any extra sauce. If you’re looking for a fun twist, spoon portions into individual ramekins and sprinkle a little more cheese on top, then broil briefly to create personal golden crusts. It makes for an impressive presentation even on a casual night!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, cover any leftover Dump-and-Bake Chicken Alfredo Rice Casserole tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it a fantastic option for next-day lunches or easy dinners.

Freezing

This casserole freezes exceptionally well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or wrap the whole dish tightly with a layer of plastic wrap followed by foil to prevent freezer burn. It’s best enjoyed within 2-3 months for optimal flavor and texture.

Reheating

To reheat, thaw frozen portions in the fridge overnight. Warm individual servings in the microwave until hot throughout, or reheat a larger portion covered in a 350°F oven for about 20-25 minutes. Adding a splash of chicken broth or Alfredo sauce before reheating helps maintain its creamy consistency.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Absolutely! Brown rice offers a nuttier flavor and chewier texture. Just keep in mind it requires a longer cooking time, so you may need to adjust the liquid amount and bake time accordingly to ensure it cooks through.

Is it possible to make the Alfredo sauce from scratch?

Yes! Homemade Alfredo sauce made with butter, cream, garlic, and Parmesan cheese can take this casserole to the next level of deliciousness. It’s simple to whip up and allows you to control the ingredients for a richer, fresher taste.

Can I add other vegetables to this casserole?

Definitely! Feel free to mix in veggies like chopped spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers. Just adjust cooking times as needed for vegetables that release a lot of moisture or require more time to soften.

What can I substitute for rotisserie chicken?

If rotisserie chicken isn’t available, cooked shredded chicken from baked or grilled breasts works perfectly. You can also use leftover turkey or even cooked sausage for a twist on the flavor profile.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

This casserole is naturally gluten-free as long as your Alfredo sauce and chicken broth do not contain gluten additives. Always check labels or use homemade versions to keep it safe for gluten-sensitive friends and family.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Dump-and-Bake Chicken Alfredo Rice Casserole enough for anyone seeking a fuss-free yet supremely comforting meal. It’s that go-to recipe that feels like a warm hug on a plate—creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. Give it a try soon and prepare to fall in love with one of the easiest casseroles that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen.

Print