Dump-and-Bake Chicken Alfredo Rice Casserole Recipe

Introduction

Dump-and-Bake Chicken Alfredo Rice Casserole is a comforting and easy meal perfect for busy weeknights. This creamy casserole combines tender chicken, rich Alfredo sauce, and hearty rice into one delicious dish. With minimal prep and simple ingredients, it’s a crowd-pleaser that practically makes itself in the oven.

Ingredients

• 2 cups uncooked rice (white or brown)
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 pound cooked chicken, shredded or diced
• 2 cups Alfredo sauce
• 1 cup broccoli florets (optional)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Step 2: In a large baking dish, combine the uncooked rice and chicken broth. Stir well to evenly distribute the rice.
3. Step 3: Mix in the shredded or diced chicken and Alfredo sauce, making sure the chicken is well-coated with the sauce.
4. Step 4: Sprinkle in the garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine evenly.
5. Step 5: If using broccoli, gently fold the florets into the mixture.
6. Step 6: Evenly top the casserole with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses.
7. Step 7: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
8. Step 8: Remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
9. Step 9: Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes to set before serving.
10. Step 10: Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot.

Tips & Variations

• Use rotisserie chicken to save time and add extra flavor.
• Swap broccoli for other veggies like spinach or mushrooms to vary the dish.
• Try using whole wheat or brown rice for a nuttier taste and added fiber.
• For extra creaminess, stir in a little cream cheese with the Alfredo sauce.
• Add red pepper flakes for a subtle kick if you like a bit of heat.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm individual servings in the microwave or oven until heated through. If the casserole seems dry, add a splash of chicken broth or milk before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use uncooked chicken instead of cooked chicken?

It’s best to use cooked chicken to ensure the meat stays tender and fully cooked through. Using uncooked chicken would require adjusting the bake time and potentially risking uneven cooking.

Can I make this casserole dairy-free?

You can substitute Alfredo sauce with a dairy-free or vegan alternative and use dairy-free cheese options. Make sure to check ingredient labels to suit your dietary needs.

Dump-and-Bake Chicken Alfredo Rice Casserole Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 115 reviews

This Dump-and-Bake Chicken Alfredo Rice Casserole is a comforting one-dish meal featuring tender chicken, creamy Alfredo sauce, and perfectly cooked rice, all baked together with a cheesy topping. Easy to prepare and packed with flavors, it’s a family-friendly dinner solution that combines classic Italian-inspired ingredients into a hearty casserole.

• Author: liam
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Casserole
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian-American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

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 cup broccoli florets (optional)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
2. Prepare Baking Dish: In a large baking dish, combine the uncooked rice and chicken broth, stirring well to evenly distribute the rice throughout the liquid.
3. Add Chicken and Sauce: Mix in the shredded or diced cooked chicken and Alfredo sauce, ensuring the chicken pieces are fully coated with the sauce for maximum flavor.
4. Season: Sprinkle garlic powder and Italian seasoning over the mixture, then add salt and pepper to taste, blending all ingredients thoroughly.
5. Incorporate Broccoli: If using broccoli florets, gently fold them into the mixture so they are evenly distributed within the casserole.
6. Cheese It Up: Evenly top the casserole mixture with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses to create a rich, cheesy crust.
7. Cover and Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 30 minutes to start cooking the rice and melding flavors.
8. Final Bake: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
9. Let it Rest: Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the casserole set and makes it easier to serve.
10. Garnish and Serve: Optionally sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness. Serve hot and enjoy this comforting meal.

Notes

• You can substitute white rice with brown rice, but note the cooking time may be longer.
• Broccoli is optional; feel free to omit it or add other vegetables like mushrooms or spinach.
• Leftover casserole can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
• For a lower-fat version, use a light Alfredo sauce or reduce the cheese amount.
• If you prefer a spicier dish, add red pepper flakes along with the Italian seasoning.

Keywords: Chicken Alfredo Casserole, dump and bake, easy chicken casserole, creamy chicken rice bake, comfort food, one dish meal