If you’re looking for a warm, comforting dish that feels like a big, cozy hug from the inside, look no further than this Rotisserie Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe. It beautifully combines tender shredded rotisserie chicken with creamy, flavorful rice baked into a golden-topped casserole that’s equally easy to prepare and deeply satisfying. Whether you’re feeding a family or hosting friends, this recipe brings a delicious homey charm to your dinner table with minimal effort and maximum taste.

Rotisserie Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The success of this casserole lies in its straightforward ingredients, each chosen to build layers of rich flavor, delightful texture, and inviting color. Every element plays an essential role, from the juicy rotisserie chicken to the creamy mushroom soup, creating that perfect harmony you’ll crave again and again.

3 cups cooked rotisserie chicken shredded: Convenient and flavorful, this protein is the star of the dish, adding moisture and hearty goodness.
1 1/2 cups uncooked long-grain white rice: Provides a fluffy, tender base that soaks up all the savory flavors beautifully.
3 cups chicken broth: Adds depth and wonderful savory notes while cooking the rice to perfection.
1 cup sour cream: Brings a luscious creaminess that elevates the casserole’s texture.
1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup: Adds a comforting earthiness and binds all ingredients together.
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Offers a sharp, melty richness that complements the chicken and rice.
1 small onion, finely chopped: Gives a subtle sweetness and aromatic depth.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with a gentle savory bite.
1 teaspoon paprika: Lends a warm color and a faint smoky hint.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the flavors perfectly.
1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just enough kick to keep things interesting.
1/2 cup frozen peas (optional): A pop of green color and a mild sweetness brighten the casserole.
1/2 cup crushed buttery crackers or panko for topping: Creates a delightfully crunchy golden crust for contrast.
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted: Helps the topping crisp up beautifully and adds richness.

How to Make Rotisserie Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and giving your 9×13-inch baking dish a light greasing. This step ensures your casserole won’t stick when it’s browned and bubbly, making cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Mix the Main Ingredients

In a large bowl, gather your uncooked rice, chicken broth, sour cream, cream of mushroom soup, shredded rotisserie chicken, chopped onion, minced garlic, paprika, salt, pepper, and optional frozen peas. Stir everything together until you have a fully combined, thick mixture that will bake into creamy, flavorful rice.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish and smooth out the top with a spatula. This even layer will ensure that every scoop has the right amount of rice, chicken, and sauce, setting you up for a perfect bite each time.

Step 4: Add the Crunchy Topping

Mix the crushed buttery crackers or panko with the melted butter in a small bowl, then sprinkle the mixture evenly over the casserole top. This step transforms your casserole from great to unforgettable with a golden, crispy topping that contrasts beautifully with the creamy interior.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

Cover the baking dish tightly with foil and bake for 45 minutes so the rice can cook thoroughly and absorb all the lovely flavors. Then remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 15 minutes, letting the topping brown perfectly and the edges bubble delightfully.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Allow your casserole to rest for about 5 minutes once it’s out of the oven. This pause lets everything settle and makes it easier to slice and serve warm, creamy portions that hold together beautifully.

How to Serve Rotisserie Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or green onions adds a vibrant pop of color and a hint of fresh flavor, making your casserole look stunning on the plate and inviting to taste buds.

Side Dishes

This casserole pairs wonderfully with simple green salads, steamed vegetables, or roasted seasonal veggies. Their freshness and crunch provide a perfect balance to the creamy richness of the dish.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve this casserole in individual ramekins or mini cast iron skillets for a cozy, personalized touch that’s perfect for dinner parties or family-style meals.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled completely, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and keep them refrigerated for up to three days. This lets you enjoy this delicious meal again with minimal effort.

Freezing

This recipe freezes beautifully: store in a freezer-safe container for up to two months. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve all those wonderful textures and flavors.

Reheating

Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through. Adding a tiny splash of chicken broth or water before reheating helps maintain the creamy texture without drying it out.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of rice for this casserole?

While long-grain white rice works best for its fluffiness and cooking time, you can try brown rice if you prefer a nuttier flavor, though baking time may need a slight adjustment.

Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely! Substitute sour cream with a dairy-free yogurt and use a dairy-free cream of mushroom soup along with your favorite non-dairy cheese alternative to keep the creamy texture without dairy.

Can I add other vegetables to the casserole?

Yes, feel free to stir in chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or carrots for extra nutrition and color; just be mindful of moisture content so the rice cooks perfectly.

How spicy is this casserole?

This dish is very mild and family-friendly, with just a hint of warmth from paprika. You can add a pinch of cayenne or crushed red pepper if you’d like a little kick.

What can I substitute for rotisserie chicken if I’m short?

Leftover cooked chicken or even shredded turkey will work well as substitutes, delivering a similar texture and flavor profile to keep your casserole just as delicious.

Final Thoughts

This Rotisserie Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe is truly a go-to comfort food that hits all the right notes with its creamy texture, savory flavors, and easy preparation. I promise once you try it, it will become one of your favorite dishes to make on busy weeknights or weekend family dinners. Give it a go and enjoy a delicious taste of cozy home cooking you can pull together with ease.