Description
This Dump-and-Bake Chicken Alfredo Rice Casserole is a comforting and easy-to-make meal featuring tender rice cooked in flavorful chicken broth, shredded chicken, creamy Alfredo sauce, and a blend of cheeses. With optional broccoli for added nutrition and simple seasonings like garlic powder and Italian herbs, this casserole delivers a rich, cheesy, and satisfying dinner perfect for busy weeknights.
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
- 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 prepare for baking the casserole evenly.
- Prepare Baking Dish: In a large baking dish, combine the uncooked rice and chicken broth. Stir well to ensure the rice is evenly distributed throughout the liquid.
- Add Chicken and Sauce: Mix in the shredded or diced cooked chicken along with the Alfredo sauce, coating the chicken pieces thoroughly with the creamy sauce.
- Season: Sprinkle in the garlic powder and Italian seasoning. Add salt and pepper according to your taste preferences and mix gently to combine all flavors.
- Incorporate Broccoli: If using broccoli, fold the florets gently into the mixture to distribute them evenly without crushing.
- Cheese It Up: Top the mixture evenly with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese for a rich cheesy crust.
- Cover and Bake: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap steam and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, allowing the rice to cook and absorb the flavors.
- Final Bake: Remove the foil carefully after 30 minutes and bake uncovered for another 15 minutes, until the cheese topping is bubbly and golden brown.
- Let it Rest: Take the casserole out of the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes to allow it to set, making it easier to serve.
- Garnish and Serve: Optionally, sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a fresh burst of color and flavor, then serve hot.
Notes
- You can use white or brown rice, but adjust cooking time slightly if using brown rice as it takes longer to cook.
- Broccoli is optional, but it adds great color, texture, and nutrition to the dish.
- Leftover cooked chicken works perfectly for this recipe, making it a great way to use up remnants.
- Make sure to cover the casserole tightly with foil to prevent the rice from drying out during the initial baking period.
- This casserole can be prepared ahead of time and baked just before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: chicken alfredo casserole, rice casserole, easy dinner recipe, baked chicken and rice, creamy chicken casserole
