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There is something undeniably comforting and satisfying about a warm, creamy casserole that delivers hearty flavors with minimal fuss. This Rotisserie Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe is one of those all-time favorite dishes I turn to when I want a cozy meal that feels homemade without the long prep time. Combining tender, flavorful rotisserie chicken with creamy, cheesy rice and aromatic herbs, this casserole is like a warm hug in every bite. It’s an effortless crowd-pleaser that comes together quickly and bakes into a golden, bubbling dish that’s perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best things about this recipe is how simple yet essential each ingredient is, working together to create the perfect balance of flavors, textures, and colors. From savory shredded chicken to the creamy base and the crispy topping, every component adds something special to the casserole.
- Rotisserie chicken, shredded: Using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken adds juicy, tender meat packed with flavor and saves a ton of time.
- Long-grain white rice: The rice cooks perfectly inside the casserole, absorbing all the delicious broth and seasonings.
- Chicken broth: This enriches the rice and adds subtle savory depth to the whole dish.
- Cream of chicken soup: Creates a luscious, creamy texture that ties all the ingredients together effortlessly.
- Sour cream: Adds tanginess and richness to balance the cream soup and keep the casserole moist.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts to a gooey, golden layer that brings indulgence and flavor.
- Onion, diced: Provides a mild bite and sweetness that enhance the dish’s complexity.
- Garlic powder: Infuses warmth and robust flavor without overpowering the casserole.
- Dried thyme: Brings a subtle herbal note that brightens the overall taste.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to balance and enhance all the flavors.
- Crushed crackers: Optional topping adding irresistible crunch and buttery goodness.
- Melted butter: Helps the cracker topping brown and crisp beautifully in the oven.
- Fresh parsley: A fresh garnish that adds color and a light herbal touch.
How to Make Rotisserie Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare your baking dish and chicken
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. Then, carefully remove the skin and bones from your rotisserie chicken, shredding the tender meat into bite-sized pieces. Setting the chicken aside will make mixing the casserole a breeze in the next steps.
Step 2: Mix the creamy sauce base
In a large bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, chicken broth, garlic powder, diced onion, dried thyme, and salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together until smooth and well blended—this flavorful sauce is what will make the rice cook up creamy and rich.
Step 3: Incorporate rice and chicken
Add the uncooked long-grain white rice into the sauce mixture, stirring thoroughly to coat each grain evenly. Then fold in the shredded rotisserie chicken, mixing just enough to distribute evenly without breaking up the meat too much. This step ensures every bite has a hearty balance of rice and chicken.
Step 4: Bake the casserole
Transfer the rice and chicken mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it into an even layer. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and pop it into the oven for 45 minutes, allowing the rice to cook fully and absorb all those savory flavors.
Step 5: Add the cheesy topping
Carefully remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. Return it to the oven for another 10 to 15 minutes, until the cheese has melted into a bubbly, golden blanket that will have you reaching for your serving spoon.
Step 6: Optional crispy cracker topping
If you love a crunchy bite, mix the crushed crackers with melted butter and sprinkle this over the cheesy layer. Bake the casserole uncovered for an additional 5 minutes, just until the topping is toasted and golden brown. This little extra step adds a wonderful textural contrast.
Step 7: Rest and garnish
Once out of the oven, let the casserole rest for 5 to 10 minutes. This helps it set up perfectly, making it easier to serve. Finish by garnishing with fresh parsley for a pop of color and a fresh herbal note that really elevates the dish.
How to Serve Rotisserie Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a simple but beautiful garnish that adds a little brightness and color to the warm, creamy casserole. If you want to go a step further, a light sprinkle of smoked paprika or a few sliced green onions can add dimension and a burst of flavor.
Side Dishes
This casserole is hearty enough to be a main dish but pairs wonderfully with crisp, green salads or steamed vegetables that bring freshness and crunch. Roasted asparagus or a side of garlic sautéed green beans work particularly well to balance the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special touch, serve this casserole in individual ramekins or small oven-safe dishes for personal portions. Adding a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce on top lets everyone customize their own plate. You can also sprinkle chopped nuts like toasted almonds for an extra layer of texture.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Rotisserie Chicken and Rice Casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. Make sure to cool it completely before refrigerating to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully! After baking and cooling, portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until heated through. Microwaving works too for smaller portions but baking helps retain the creamy texture and brings back the melty cheese appeal.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Absolutely! Just keep in mind brown rice takes longer to cook, so you may want to pre-cook it slightly or adjust the baking time and liquid accordingly to ensure it becomes tender in the casserole.
Is it okay to use different types of cheese?
Yes! While cheddar adds classic sharpness and melty texture, feel free to try mozzarella for creaminess or a smoky gouda for depth. Mixing cheeses can make it even more flavorful.
Can I make this casserole dairy-free?
Definitely. Substitute the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and cheese with your favorite dairy-free alternatives like coconut milk-based cream soup, dairy-free sour cream, and vegan cheese to suit dietary preferences.
What can I add to make it spicier?
Add a dash of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños when mixing the sauce. You can also sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes over the top before baking for an extra kick.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Replace the rotisserie chicken with cooked mushrooms or plant-based chicken alternatives, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The creamy and cheesy base still delivers plenty of comforting flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Rotisserie Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe is the kind of dish that quickly becomes a staple in your kitchen, thanks to its ease, richness, and soul-satisfying flavors. Whether you’re feeding a family or preparing a cozy meal for yourself, this casserole hits all the right notes. I can’t wait for you to try it and discover your own favorite way to enjoy this recipe’s creamy, cheesy goodness.
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Rotisserie Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This Rotisserie Chicken and Rice Casserole is a comforting one-dish meal combining tender shredded rotisserie chicken, creamy chicken soup, and long-grain rice baked to perfection. Topped with melted cheddar cheese and an optional buttery cracker crust, it’s an easy and satisfying dinner that the whole family will love.
Ingredients
For the Casserole:
- 1 rotisserie chicken, shredded (about 3–4 cups)
- 1 ½ cups long-grain white rice (uncooked)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Topping (optional):
- ½ cup crushed crackers (such as Ritz)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Prepare Chicken: Remove the skin and bones from the rotisserie chicken and shred the meat into bite-sized pieces. Set aside for mixing later.
- Mix Sauce: In a large bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, chicken broth, garlic powder, diced onion, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined, creating a flavorful sauce base.
- Add Rice and Chicken: Add the uncooked long-grain rice to the bowl with the sauce mixture and stir to coat the rice evenly. Then add the shredded rotisserie chicken and stir again to ensure everything is evenly distributed.
- Assemble Casserole: Transfer the rice and chicken mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly for uniform cooking. Cover the dish with aluminum foil.
- Bake the Casserole: Bake covered in the preheated oven for 45 minutes to allow the rice to cook through and flavors to meld.
- Add Cheese: Remove the foil and evenly sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Prepare Topping (Optional): If you desire a crispy topping, mix the crushed crackers with melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture over the cheesy casserole and bake for another 5 minutes until the topping turns golden brown and crunchy.
- Rest and Garnish: Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes to set. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving hot for a beautiful presentation.
Notes
- You can substitute cheddar cheese with Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
- For a lower-fat version, use reduced-fat sour cream and cheese.
- Leftover casserole can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- If you prefer spicier casseroles, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños.
- Using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken reduces prep time significantly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
