Rotisserie Chicken And Rice Casserole

Name: Rotisserie Chicken And Rice Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 3 cups cooked rotisserie chicken, shredded; 2 cups cooked rice; 1 cup cream of chicken soup; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice); 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, or broccoli); 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)

Highlighted under: Hearty Delights

I love how easy and comforting this Rotisserie Chicken and Rice Casserole is to whip up, especially on busy weeknights. Using a pre-cooked rotisserie chicken not only saves time but also infuses the dish with so much flavor. The creamy, cheesy sauce mingles beautifully with the tender rice and juicy chicken, creating a satisfying meal that everyone in the family can enjoy. Plus, I can customize it with my favorite veggies for an added nutritional boost. It's the perfect one-pan dinner!

Created by

Olivia Barrett

Last updated on 2026-02-24T06:29:36.748Z

When I first made this casserole, I wanted something that combined convenience and flavor for a family dinner. The use of rotisserie chicken was a game-changer; it transformed a boring rice dish into something utterly delightful. The first time I tried it, I marveled at how quickly it came together.

What I particularly love is how versatile this recipe is. You can easily swap out the vegetables based on what you have on hand, or even add different spices to change up the flavor profile. It's a fantastic way to use leftovers while still serving a wholesome meal!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy and cheesy goodness that comforts the soul
Quick preparation thanks to the rotisserie chicken
Versatile enough to adapt to what you have in your pantry

The Perfect Balance of Creaminess and Flavor

The combination of cream of chicken soup and chicken broth in this casserole creates a rich and creamy base that holds the dish together beautifully. When mixing these ingredients, make sure to stir until smooth to prevent any clumps. This will not only enhance the texture but also ensure that every bite is packed with flavor. A good tip is to use a whisk to mix the soup and broth, which will help create a glossy, cohesive sauce.

For added depth, consider using homemade broth if you have any on hand. Store-bought varieties can sometimes lack the richness of homemade, so opting for a high-quality brand can elevate the dish significantly. Adjust the seasoning after adding the broth; taste the mixture to ensure it resonates with the flavors you want before baking.

Vegetable Variations for Extra Nutrition

This casserole is exceptionally versatile when it comes to vegetables. While mixed vegetables such as peas and carrots are a classic choice, feel free to incorporate others like spinach or bell peppers. If using fresh vegetables, I recommend steaming them lightly before mixing them into the casserole. This simple step helps them retain their vibrant color and ensures they are tender but not mushy by the time the dish is finished baking.

If you're aiming for a new flavor profile, consider adding ingredients such as diced tomatoes or black beans for a southwestern twist. These substitutions will not only change the taste but also increase the dish's nutritional content, making it a well-rounded meal that satisfies diverse palates.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Preparing this casserole in advance is an excellent way to simplify dinner on busy weeknights. You can assemble it a day ahead and store it covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. Just remember to increase the baking time slightly if pulling a cold casserole from the fridge; allow an additional 10-15 minutes in the oven to ensure it heats through completely.

For those planning to freeze the casserole, it can be done before baking. Freeze it in an airtight container, and when you're ready to eat, transfer it to the refrigerator to thaw the night before. Bake directly from frozen, but increase your total bake time by approximately 20-30 minutes, covering with foil if the cheese starts to brown too quickly. This way, you can enjoy a warm, homemade meal with minimal effort!

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make a delicious casserole:

Ingredients

3 cups cooked rotisserie chicken, shredded
2 cups cooked rice
1 cup cream of chicken soup
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, or broccoli)
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)

Make sure to prep your ingredients before starting to make the cooking process smoother.

Instructions

Follow these steps for a quick and easy casserole:

Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cooked rice, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, and mixed vegetables. Stir until well combined. Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

Combine and Transfer

Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top for an added crunch.

Bake

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove the foil, sprinkle the cheese on top, and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving for best results.

Pro Tips

Feel free to add your favorite spices to enhance the flavor or substitute other proteins if desired.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this creamy casserole with a simple side salad to keep the meal light and refreshing. A crisp garden salad drizzled with a lemon vinaigrette adds a nice contrast to the rich flavors of the chicken and rice. If you're looking for something heartier, garlic bread or a warm piece of artisan baguette complements the dish beautifully, allowing you to soak up every bit of the creamy sauce.

For a bit of freshness and acidity, consider topping each serving with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives. Not only does this enhance the flavor, but it also adds visual appeal to your plate.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you have dietary restrictions, there are several substitutions you can make. For a gluten-free version, simply choose gluten-free breadcrumbs or omit the topping altogether. You can also use a gluten-free cream of chicken soup or make a homemade version with cornstarch and broth.

For a dairy-free alternative, look for plant-based cheese and soups. There are many options available that mimic the creaminess of traditional dairy products without sacrificing flavor. Just be sure to check the labels for any hidden ingredients that may not align with your dietary needs.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe is easily scalable, making it a great option for feeding a larger crowd. To double the recipe, use a larger baking pan, such as a 12x16 inch dish, and watch the baking time as it may increase by 10-15 minutes. Ensure that the casserole is heated through before serving, checking that the internal temperature reaches a safe 165°F (74°C).

If you have leftovers, this casserole reheats well. Store any remaining portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or use the microwave for a faster option, stirring occasionally to heat evenly.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white?

Yes, you can use brown rice, but make sure it is cooked beforehand as it takes longer to cook.

→ What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup?

You can use homemade cream sauce or substitute with a can of cream of mushroom soup.

→ Can this be made ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance and bake it when you're ready.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.