Name: Delicious Dump & Bake Chicken Alfredo Rice Casserole
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked rotisserie chicken, shredded; 1 cup uncooked white rice (long-grain or jasmine); 3 cups chicken broth; 1 cup Alfredo sauce (store-bought or homemade); 1 cup frozen peas and carrots (optional); 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Dump And Bake Chicken Alfredo Rice Casserole Recipe is about to become your new culinary superpower for busy weeknights! As someone who deeply appreciates both gourmet flavors and ultimate convenience, I can confidently say that this dish offers the best of both worlds. Imagine the rich, velvety texture of classic Chicken Alfredo, infused with tender rice and baked to golden perfection, all achieved with astonishingly little effort from your side.

While the timeless elegance of Alfredo sauce originated in Rome, charming palates for generations with its simple yet profound cream and Parmesan blend, the ingenious “dump and bake” casserole concept is a testament to modern home cooking efficiency. This recipe beautifully bridges that gap, transforming a beloved Italian-American classic into an incredibly accessible, family-friendly meal. You’ll understand why people adore this dish from the very first bite: it’s the perfect harmony of creamy, savory chicken, fluffy rice, and a bubbly, cheesy top. Forget endless pots and pans; this Dump And Bake Chicken Alfredo Rice Casserole Recipe delivers exceptional taste and hearty satisfaction in one glorious pan, making dinner effortless and utterly delicious.

Ingredients:

2 cups uncooked long-grain white rice: I find that long-grain white rice works best for this casserole as it tends to stay separate and fluffy, absorbing the creamy Alfredo sauce beautifully without becoming mushy. Please avoid using instant or minute rice, as it will cook too quickly and change the overall texture of our delightful casserole. Rinsing the rice thoroughly before use is a step I always take, and I highly recommend it to you too, as it removes excess starch and helps prevent the rice from clumping together.

4 cups low-sodium chicken broth: This is our primary liquid for cooking the rice and building the foundation of our casserole’s flavor. Using low-sodium broth allows us to control the saltiness of the dish ourselves, adjusting it to our personal preference. If you only have regular chicken broth, just be mindful when adding extra salt later.
1 (15-ounce) jar Alfredo sauce: For this particular “Dump And Bake Chicken Alfredo Rice Casserole Recipe,” I lean into the convenience aspect, and a good quality jarred Alfredo sauce is our secret weapon for speed and flavor. Choose your favorite brand; I usually go for one that’s rich and creamy, perhaps with a hint of garlic already in it. This adds an incredible depth of flavor without any extra effort on our part.

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced: This is where we bring in our protein! I often use a rotisserie chicken for ultimate convenience – it’s already cooked, seasoned, and easy to shred. However, any leftover cooked chicken breast or thighs, shredded or diced into bite-sized pieces, will work perfectly. Just make sure it’s cooked through before adding it to the casserole.
1 cup frozen peas (optional, but highly recommended for a pop of color and sweetness): I love adding frozen peas to this casserole! They bring a lovely touch of sweetness, a vibrant pop of color, and a little extra vegetable goodness. You don’t even need to thaw them beforehand; they’ll cook perfectly in the oven.

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: What’s a casserole without a generous layer of melty cheese? Mozzarella provides that classic gooey, stretchy texture we all love. It creates a beautiful golden crust on top and adds an extra layer of richness to our “Dump And Bake Chicken Alfredo Rice Casserole Recipe.”
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: For that sharp, nutty, and savory punch that complements Alfredo so well. I like to mix some into the casserole and reserve a little for sprinkling on top just before serving. Freshly grated is always superior, but pre-grated works fine too.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: To enhance the aromatic flavor profile. Even if your Alfredo sauce has garlic, a little extra never hurts in my book!

½ teaspoon onion powder: Adds another layer of savory depth to the casserole.
¼ teaspoon black pepper: For a gentle warmth and to balance the richness.
Salt to taste: Remember, we’re using low-sodium broth and jarred sauce, so we’ll want to adjust the salt at the end. I always recommend tasting and adding gradually.

Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish, optional): A sprinkle of fresh herbs at the end really brightens up the dish and adds a lovely visual appeal.

Prepping Our Ingredients for the Dump and Bake Magic:

One of the reasons I absolutely adore this “Dump And Bake Chicken Alfredo Rice Casserole Recipe” is how truly minimal the prep work is. It lives up to its name! However, taking a few moments to properly prepare our core ingredients ensures the best possible outcome for our incredibly easy and satisfying meal.

Rinse the Rice Thoroughly: This step, while often overlooked, is something I always do and highly recommend. I take my 2 cups of uncooked long-grain white rice and place it in a fine-mesh sieve. Then, I rinse it under cold running water for a good minute or two, agitating it with my fingers, until the water runs clear. This process removes excess starch from the rice grains, which prevents them from becoming sticky and clumpy during baking. Trust me, you want that lovely, separate grain texture in your Alfredo casserole! After rinsing, let the rice drain well while you gather the other ingredients. This small effort makes a big difference in the final texture of our “Dump And Bake Chicken Alfredo Rice Casserole Recipe.”

Prepare Your Cooked Chicken: If you’re using a rotisserie chicken, as I often do for ultimate convenience, simply shred the meat from the bones. Aim for about 2 cups of shredded chicken. If you have leftover cooked chicken breasts or thighs, dice them into bite-sized pieces. The goal here is consistent pieces that will distribute evenly throughout the casserole. Ensuring your chicken is already cooked is paramount, as this is a “dump and bake” recipe designed for quick assembly and baking.
Measure Out Your Cheeses: Get your 1 cup of shredded mozzarella and ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese ready. I like to keep them in separate bowls. We’ll be mixing some Parmesan into the casserole for internal flavor and using both for that glorious cheesy topping. Having these measured and ready to go makes the assembly process even smoother.
Gather Your Liquids and Seasonings: Have your 4 cups of low-sodium chicken broth, 15-ounce jar of Alfredo sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper all within arm’s reach. This is the beauty of “dump and bake” – once everything is gathered, the rest is just combining! I find having everything pre-measured and ready significantly reduces stress and mess in the kitchen.

Preheat Your Oven: While these small prep steps are underway, take a moment to preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the oven is at the correct temperature when your casserole is ready to go in, promoting even cooking from the start. Also, I always make sure to lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. A little non-stick cooking spray or a thin layer of butter prevents sticking and makes serving and cleanup a breeze. This preparation ensures our “Dump And Bake Chicken Alfredo Rice Casserole Recipe” will release from the pan beautifully.

Assembling Your Delicious Dump And Bake Chicken Alfredo Rice Casserole:

Now for the fun part – watching all these simple ingredients come together to form what will become a truly comforting and incredibly easy meal. This is where the “dump” in “Dump And Bake Chicken Alfredo Rice Casserole Recipe” truly shines!

Combine the Dry Ingredients: In your lightly greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spread the rinsed and well-drained long-grain white rice evenly across the bottom. I always make sure it’s in a single layer as much as possible, as this helps with even cooking. Over the rice, sprinkle the garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Give it a quick, gentle stir right in the dish just to evenly distribute those seasonings over the rice grains. This is an important foundational step, ensuring every bite of our “Dump And Bake Chicken Alfredo Rice Casserole Recipe” is seasoned well from the inside out.

Add the Chicken and Peas: Next, distribute your 2 cups of shredded or diced cooked chicken evenly over the seasoned rice. Don’t clump it all in one spot; try to get it spread out so everyone gets a good helping of chicken in their serving. If you’re using the optional (but highly recommended!) 1 cup of frozen peas, scatter them over the chicken. There’s no need to thaw the peas; they’ll cook perfectly in the oven and add a lovely burst of color and sweetness.
Pour in the Liquids: Now comes the liquid gold! Carefully pour the 4 cups of low-sodium chicken broth over the rice, chicken, and peas. Try to pour it as evenly as possible without disturbing the layers too much. Immediately after, gently spoon the entire 15-ounce jar of Alfredo sauce over everything. I like to dot spoonfuls of the Alfredo sauce across the surface to ensure it covers a wide area.
Gentle Stirring is Key: Here’s a crucial tip for our “Dump And Bake Chicken Alfredo Rice Casserole Recipe”: do NOT stir vigorously! We want the rice to cook somewhat independently within the liquid. A gentle, very light stir is acceptable, just enough to ensure the Alfredo sauce and broth are somewhat integrated, but avoid bringing the rice to the top. The goal is for the liquid to seep down and cook the rice from below, absorbing all those wonderful flavors. If you stir too much, the starch from the rice can release prematurely, leading to a gummier texture, and we want fluffy, distinct grains.

Add the Internal Cheese Layer: Sprinkle about ¼ cup of the grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the liquid mixture. This will melt down into the sauce, adding another layer of salty, umami flavor throughout the casserole. I usually reserve the remaining Parmesan for later, along with the mozzarella, for the final cheesy crust.

Baking Your Casserole to Golden Perfection:

With all our ingredients wonderfully layered and ready, it’s time to let the oven do its magic. This “Dump And Bake Chicken Alfredo Rice Casserole Recipe” is designed to be largely hands-off once it hits the heat, allowing you to relax while your kitchen fills with incredibly appetizing aromas.

Initial Covered Bake: Tightly cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. The foil is essential here; it traps the steam, which is critical for cooking the rice thoroughly and evenly without drying out the casserole. Place the covered dish into your preheated 375°F (190°C) oven. Let it bake for 40-45 minutes. During this time, the rice will absorb the chicken broth and Alfredo sauce, cooking to a tender perfection, and all the flavors will meld together beautifully. I usually set a timer for 40 minutes and then check it.

Checking for Doneness and Adding Cheese: After the initial baking period, carefully remove the dish from the oven and take off the foil. Be cautious of the hot steam escaping! Gently stir the casserole to see if the rice is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed. If the rice still seems a bit firm or there’s a lot of liquid remaining, recover the dish and bake for another 5-10 minutes. Once the rice is mostly cooked and tender, sprinkle the remaining ¼ cup of Parmesan cheese and all 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. This is where our “Dump And Bake Chicken Alfredo Rice Casserole Recipe” gets its irresistible golden-brown topping.
Final Uncovered Bake: Return the uncovered casserole to the oven. Continue baking for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese on top is beautifully melted, bubbly, and has turned a gorgeous golden brown. Keep a close eye on it during this stage, as oven temperatures can vary, and we want that perfect cheesy crust without burning it. If you like a really deep golden-brown, you can even switch to the broiler for the last minute or two, but watch it like a hawk – cheese can go from perfect to burnt very quickly under the broiler!
Rest Before Serving: Once your “Dump And Bake Chicken Alfredo Rice Casserole Recipe” is gloriously golden and bubbling, remove it from the oven. This next step is crucial for the best texture: let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the casserole to set slightly, making it easier to serve cleanly, and allows the remaining liquid to be fully absorbed, resulting in a perfectly creamy, not watery, consistency. It also gives the flavors a final chance to fully develop.

Garnish and Enjoy: After resting, scoop out generous portions. If you’re feeling fancy, or just want to add a fresh touch, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or chives over each serving. This adds a lovely pop of color and a fresh herbaceous note that truly elevates the dish. Serve warm and enjoy the comforting, creamy goodness of your homemade “Dump And Bake Chicken Alfredo Rice Casserole Recipe”!

Important Tips for the Best Dump And Bake Chicken Alfredo Rice Casserole:

While this “Dump And Bake Chicken Alfredo Rice Casserole Recipe” is incredibly forgiving and straightforward, I’ve picked up a few little tricks and insights over the years that can elevate it from great to absolutely phenomenal. These aren’t just details; they’re the little nuances that ensure your casserole turns out perfectly every single time.

Don’t Skip the Rice Rinse:

I cannot emphasize this enough! Rinsing the rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear is a small step that yields big results. It removes excess starch, which is the main culprit behind mushy or sticky rice. You want individual, fluffy grains in your casserole, and rinsing ensures that. It allows the rice to absorb the creamy Alfredo sauce and broth more effectively, preventing a gummy texture.
The Importance of a Tight Cover:

When baking, a tightly sealed dish is crucial. The aluminum foil acts like a mini-steamer, trapping all the moisture within the casserole. This steam is what cooks the rice evenly and thoroughly without it drying out. If your foil doesn’t seal well, the liquid can escape, leading to undercooked rice or a dry casserole. You can even place a baking sheet under the casserole dish as an extra precaution against any potential bubbling over, though with proper liquid ratios, this is usually not an issue.

Patience During Resting:

I know it’s tempting to dive right into that bubbling, cheesy goodness straight out of the oven, but resist the urge for just a few minutes! Allowing the casserole to rest for 5-10 minutes post-baking is essential. This time allows the residual heat to finish cooking the rice perfectly, helps the sauce to thicken slightly, and allows the entire casserole to set. This results in cleaner servings and a more cohesive, creamy texture. If you cut into it too soon, it might seem a little loose or soupy.
Adjusting for Altitude or Oven Variations:

If you live at a higher altitude, or if you know your oven tends to run a little hot or cold, you might need to adjust the baking time slightly. At higher altitudes, liquids evaporate faster, so you might need a tiny bit more broth or a slightly shorter bake time. Conversely, if your oven runs cool, it might need a few extra minutes. Trust your instincts and check the rice for tenderness; that’s your best indicator.
Salt to Your Taste:

Remember, we’re starting with low-sodium chicken broth and a jarred Alfredo sauce, which can vary in salt content. I always recommend tasting the casserole once it’s baked and before serving. If you feel it needs a little more zing, a pinch of salt can make all the difference. You can also add a tiny dash of garlic salt if you want more garlic flavor along with the salt. It’s always easier to add salt than to remove it!

Chicken Choice Matters (for flavor):

While any cooked chicken works, the type can subtly influence the final flavor. Rotisserie chicken, with its seasoned skin and juicy meat, imparts a wonderful savory depth. If you’re cooking chicken specifically for this recipe, consider seasoning it well with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and perhaps some Italian herbs before shredding. This adds another layer of flavor to our “Dump And Bake Chicken Alfredo Rice Casserole Recipe.”

Flavorful Variations and Customizations:

One of the things I love most about a good casserole, especially this “Dump And Bake Chicken Alfredo Rice Casserole Recipe,” is how adaptable it is. It’s a fantastic canvas for adding your favorite flavors, using up ingredients you have on hand, or simply changing things up based on your mood. Here are some of my favorite ways to customize this dish:

Vegetable Power-Ups:
- Spinach: For a nutrient boost and a lovely color, stir in a handful of fresh baby spinach (about 2-3 cups) when you add the chicken. It will wilt down beautifully into the hot casserole.
- Broccoli Florets: Small broccoli florets (about 1-1.5 cups) can be added along with the peas. They’ll soften and cook as the casserole bakes, adding a nice texture and earthy flavor.
- Mushrooms: Sliced mushrooms (8 oz) can be sautéed briefly before adding to the casserole for a deeper umami flavor, or even added raw if you prefer them softer.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: For a burst of concentrated tomato flavor and a touch of sweetness, chop up about ¼ cup of oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes (drained) and scatter them in. They pair wonderfully with Alfredo.
Cheese Combinations:
- Provolone: Swap out some of the mozzarella for provolone for a sharper, slightly tangier flavor.
- Asiago or Fontina: These cheeses offer a more robust, nutty flavor that complements the Alfredo beautifully. You could do a blend of mozzarella and one of these.
- Cream Cheese: For an even richer, tangier, and ultra-creamy sauce, whisk 2-3 ounces of softened cream cheese into the Alfredo sauce before pouring it over the casserole. This makes the sauce incredibly decadent.

Protein Swaps:
- Turkey: Have leftover Thanksgiving turkey? This casserole is an excellent way to use it up!
- Shrimp: For a seafood twist, add cooked shrimp during the last 10 minutes of baking (when you add the cheese) to avoid overcooking them.
- Ham: Diced cooked ham can add a lovely salty, savory element.
- Sausage: Cooked and crumbled Italian sausage (mild or spicy) would bring a fantastic depth of flavor. Drain any excess fat before adding.
Spice and Herb Enhancements:
- Italian Seasoning: A teaspoon of Italian seasoning mixed in with the garlic and onion powder can add a classic herbaceous note.
- Red Pepper Flakes: If you like a little heat, a pinch or two of red pepper flakes stirred into the casserole mixture or sprinkled on top with the cheese can provide a lovely kick.
- Fresh Garlic: For serious garlic lovers, mince 2-3 cloves of fresh garlic and stir them into the Alfredo sauce before pouring.

Broth Alternatives:
- Vegetable Broth: If you prefer, or don’t have chicken broth, vegetable broth works perfectly well and keeps the dish flavorful.
A Touch of Lemon:

After baking, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the entire casserole can brighten up all the rich flavors. It’s an unexpected but delightful addition!

Making Ahead and Storage Tips:

The convenience of this “Dump And Bake Chicken Alfredo Rice Casserole Recipe” extends beyond just its simple assembly. It’s also a fantastic dish for meal prepping or for enjoying delicious leftovers. Here’s how I handle making it ahead and storing it:

To Prepare Ahead (Unbaked):
- You can assemble the entire casserole, following steps 1 through 10, up to the point of adding the cheese for baking.
- Once assembled in the baking dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, then a layer of aluminum foil.
- Refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
- When you’re ready to bake, remove it from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes while your oven preheats. This helps ensure more even cooking.
- You might need to add an additional 5-10 minutes to the covered baking time since you’re starting with a cold dish. Always check the rice for tenderness before adding the cheese and finishing the bake.
Storage of Leftovers:
- Allow any leftover “Dump And Bake Chicken Alfredo Rice Casserole Recipe” to cool completely at room temperature before storing. This prevents condensation from forming and making your casserole soggy.
- Transfer the cooled leftovers to an airtight container.
- Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Instructions:
- This casserole freezes surprisingly well, making it an excellent candidate for future quick meals!
- Freezing Baked Casserole: Once baked and cooled completely, you can freeze individual portions or the entire casserole. If freezing the whole casserole, you can either wrap the entire baking dish (if it’s freezer-safe) or transfer it to a disposable aluminum pan for freezing. Cover tightly with plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. Label with the date.
- Freezing Unbaked Casserole: While it is possible, I generally prefer to freeze it after baking for best results, as raw rice can sometimes have a different texture when thawed and cooked. If you do freeze unbaked, ensure all ingredients are well-distributed, and be prepared for potential adjustments in baking time upon thawing.
- Frozen casserole will keep well for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating Tips:
- From Refrigerator: For individual portions, reheat in the microwave until hot throughout. For a larger amount, place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and reheat in a 300-325°F (150-160°C) oven until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes. You might want to add a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce if it seems too thick.
- From Frozen (Baked): If reheating an entire frozen casserole, you can bake it from frozen (covered) at 325°F (160°C) for 45-60 minutes, or until heated through. Uncover for the last 10-15 minutes if you want to crisp up the cheese again. Individual portions can be microwaved, but expect a longer reheating time.
- A common issue with reheating rice dishes is dryness. Don’t hesitate to add a tablespoon or two of milk, cream, or chicken broth to your portion before reheating, especially in the microwave, to help restore its creamy texture.

Conclusion:

If there’s one recipe I’m truly excited for you to add to your rotation, it’s this incredible creation we’ve explored today. This isn’t just another meal; it’s a game-changer for those busy weeknights when time is a luxury and delicious, homemade food feels like an impossible dream. We’ve journeyed through the simple steps, but the true magic lies in its effortless execution and the immensely satisfying result. I genuinely believe this dish embodies everything we love about comfort food – rich, creamy, utterly satisfying, and surprisingly simple to bring to life in your own kitchen. It truly delivers on its promise of big flavor with minimal fuss, making it an absolute must-try for home cooks of all skill levels, from novices to seasoned chefs looking for a stress-free win. You’ll be amazed at how such a straightforward process can yield such an incredibly flavorful and hearty meal that truly feels like it took hours, not minutes, to prepare.

What sets this recipe apart, and why I’m so passionate about sharing it with you, is its unparalleled convenience without compromising on taste. Forget about multiple pots and pans, excessive chopping, or complicated techniques. This is truly the epitome of a one-dish wonder. The entire concept revolves around minimal prep and maximum flavor, allowing you to spend less time slaving over the stove and more time enjoying moments with your loved ones. Seriously, the moment you experience the ease of throwing everything together and letting your oven do the hard work, you’ll understand why I can’t stop raving about it. This is precisely why our Dump And Bake Chicken Alfredo Rice Casserole Recipe is poised to become a staple in your household. It’s perfect for those evenings when you’re craving something warm and comforting but simply don’t have the energy for an elaborate culinary undertaking. It’s hearty enough to satisfy even the biggest appetites, and its creamy, cheesy goodness is a guaranteed hit with both adults and picky eaters alike, which, let’s be honest, is a huge win in any busy household.

Serving Suggestions to Elevate Your Meal

While this casserole is a complete meal in itself, I always find that a few simple additions can truly round out the experience. For a touch of freshness and a vibrant contrast to the rich creaminess, I highly recommend serving it alongside a crisp green salad. A simple vinaigrette dressing made with olive oil, red wine vinegar, a touch of Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper would be perfect. Another fantastic option is some steamed or roasted broccoli florets, perhaps tossed with a little garlic and lemon zest, to add a lovely crunch and a boost of nutrients. And, of course, a warm, crusty loaf of garlic bread or some soft breadsticks are practically mandatory for soaking up every last bit of that luscious Alfredo sauce. Trust me, you won’t want to leave a single drop behind!

Creative Variations to Make It Your Own

One of the aspects I love most about a good casserole recipe is its incredible versatility, and this one is no exception. While the basic framework of the Dump And Bake Chicken Alfredo Rice Casserole Recipe is absolutely delicious as is, don’t hesitate to put your own spin on it. If you’re looking to add more vegetables, consider tossing in some frozen peas, corn, or diced bell peppers along with the other ingredients before baking. For a different protein, cooked shrimp or even a can of drained, flaked tuna could be interesting alternatives to chicken. You could also experiment with different cheeses; a blend of Monterey Jack, mozzarella, and a sharp cheddar could add another layer of flavor. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes would introduce a subtle kick, or a dash of smoked paprika could lend a wonderful depth. Feel free to play around with herbs too – fresh parsley or basil stirred in after baking would brighten the flavors beautifully. The beauty of this dish is its forgiving nature, so feel empowered to get creative and customize it to suit your family’s preferences and whatever you have on hand.

So, there you have it. My heartfelt endorsement for a dish that truly delivers on taste, convenience, and pure, unadulterated comfort. This isn’t just a recipe; it’s a solution to weeknight dinner dilemmas, a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and a testament to the fact that incredibly delicious food doesn’t always require hours of effort. I’m confident that once you try it, you’ll find yourself returning to this recipe again and again, becoming a firm favorite in your culinary repertoire. It’s that good, and that easy!

Now, it’s your turn! I absolutely can’t wait for you to experience the magic of this Dump And Bake Chicken Alfredo Rice Casserole Recipe for yourself. Gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and prepare to impress yourself and your family with a meal that tastes like a labor of love but requires minimal fuss. Once you’ve whipped up this delightful casserole, please come back and share your experience with me! Did you add any unique twists? What did your family think? I love hearing about your kitchen adventures, seeing your delicious creations, and learning how these recipes fit into your life. Your feedback and photos truly make my day, so don’t be shy – let me know how it goes in the comments below! Happy cooking, my friends!