Dump-and-Bake Chicken Alfredo Rice Casserole Recipe
This Dump-and-Bake Chicken Alfredo Rice Casserole is a simple and comforting one-dish meal combining tender rice, shredded chicken, and creamy Alfredo sauce, topped with mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Perfect for a cozy dinner, it’s easy to prepare with minimal effort, featuring optional broccoli for added nutrition and a fresh parsley garnish for a touch of color.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
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 ensure it reaches the ideal temperature for cooking the casserole evenly.
- Prepare Baking Dish: In a large baking dish, combine the uncooked rice and chicken broth. Stir well to distribute the rice evenly throughout the liquid, which will cook the rice properly during baking.
- Add Chicken and Sauce: Mix in the shredded or diced cooked chicken along with the Alfredo sauce. This coats the chicken in creamy sauce and integrates it with the rice for a flavorful dish.
- Season: Sprinkle the garlic powder and Italian seasoning over the mixture, then add salt and pepper according to your taste preferences to enhance the overall flavor.
- Incorporate Broccoli: If using broccoli, fold it gently into the mixture to combine without mashing the florets, adding a nutritious vegetable element.
- Cheese It Up: Evenly spread the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses on top of the casserole to create a melty, golden crust after baking.
- Cover and Bake: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap moisture and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, allowing the rice to cook through.
- Final Bake: Remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 15 minutes or until the cheese topping is bubbly and golden brown.
- Let it Rest: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes. This resting period helps the casserole set, making it easier to serve.
- Garnish and Serve: Optionally sprinkle fresh parsley over the top for a vibrant, fresh finish. Serve hot and enjoy your creamy, cheesy chicken Alfredo rice casserole!
Notes
- Optional broccoli adds nutrition and texture but can be omitted if preferred.
- Use cooked chicken leftovers or rotisserie chicken to save time.
- Substitute white rice with brown rice for a healthier whole grain option; note that brown rice may require slightly longer baking time.
- Covering the dish while baking ensures the rice cooks evenly by trapping steam.
- Letting the casserole rest after baking allows it to firm up for cleaner servings.
Keywords: chicken alfredo casserole, baked rice casserole, creamy chicken dinner, easy casserole recipe, one dish meal
