Rotisserie Chicken And Rice Casserole

Name: Rotisserie Chicken And Rice Casserole
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked rotisserie chicken, shredded; 1 cup long-grain white rice; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup frozen peas and carrots; 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Everyday Comfort Food Recipes

I love the ease and comfort of preparing a delicious meal with minimal effort, which is exactly what this Rotisserie Chicken and Rice Casserole brings to the table. Using a store-bought rotisserie chicken not only cuts down on prep time but also infuses the dish with rich flavors. With a handful of simple ingredients, you can create a hearty meal that the whole family will enjoy. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something warm and filling without spending hours in the kitchen.

Created by

Jessica Brown

Last updated on 2026-02-23T19:13:37.933Z

When I first tried making this casserole, I was blown away by how quickly it came together. The convenience of using rotisserie chicken made it not only a time-saver but also a flavor enhancer, adding an irresistible savory depth. The secret is to let the rice absorb the chicken broth fully, which elevates every bite with rich taste.

One specific tip I discovered was to add a sprinkle of cheese on top during the last few minutes of baking. This creates a wonderfully gooey layer that pulls the whole dish together. It's an easy yet scrumptious addition that keeps my family coming back for seconds!

Why You'll Love This Dish
Quick to prepare with store-bought chicken
Comforting and satisfying for the whole family
Versatile base that can be customized with your favorite veggies

Understanding the Ingredients

Each ingredient in this Rotisserie Chicken and Rice Casserole plays a key role in delivering both flavor and texture. The long-grain white rice acts as a sturdy base that absorbs the rich chicken broth, contributing to the comfort factor of the dish. It's crucial to measure the rice accurately to avoid a soggy casserole; too much liquid can lead to a mushy texture while too little may leave the rice undercooked. Aim for a perfect 1:2 rice-to-broth ratio for optimal results.

Shredded rotisserie chicken is the star ingredient, providing a depth of flavor that is unmatched. If you're in a pinch, you can substitute it with cooked chicken breast or thighs, but you may lose some of the rich seasoning that store-bought rotisserie chicken typically offers. To enhance the flavor further, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or a few dashes of hot sauce for an extra kick.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sautéing the onion and garlic before combining them with the other ingredients is essential for developing a savory base. Cook them until the onion is translucent and tends to be soft, usually about 3–5 minutes on medium heat. Avoid browning them too much; we want a gentle sweetness to enhance the overall flavor without bitterness. The aromatic qualities released during this step elevate the casserole from ordinary to extraordinary.

It's recommended to cover the casserole with aluminum foil during the initial baking period. This traps steam, ensuring the rice cooks properly and remains moist. After 25 minutes, removing the foil allows the cheese to brown and develop a lovely golden crust. If you find the cheese isn't browning well, you can switch the oven to broil for a minute or two, but keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients before getting started for a smooth cooking process.

Ingredients

2 cups cooked rotisserie chicken, shredded
1 cup long-grain white rice
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup frozen peas and carrots
1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure all your ingredients are prepped and ready to go for the best results.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to whip up this casserole in no time.

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Sauté the vegetables

In a large skillet, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic over medium heat until the onion is translucent.

Combine the ingredients

Add the shredded chicken, rice, chicken broth, frozen peas and carrots, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir until well mixed.

Transfer to a baking dish

Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish and spread it evenly.

Add cheese and bake

Top the casserole with shredded cheddar cheese, then cover with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve and enjoy

Remove from the oven, let it cool for a few minutes, then serve warm.

Enjoy your delicious casserole with a side salad or some crusty bread.

Pro Tips

For a zesty twist, consider adding some diced green chilies or a splash of hot sauce to the mix. You can also substitute brown rice for a healthier option, but be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.

Make-Ahead and Storage

One of the best features of this casserole is its make-ahead capability. Assemble the dish up to a day in advance, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When you're ready to eat, simply remove it from the fridge, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes, and then bake as directed. This not only saves time but allows the flavors to meld beautifully as they sit.

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or let it warm in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes. To ensure that it doesn't dry out during reheating, add a splash of chicken broth before covering with foil.

Variations to Try

Feel free to customize this casserole to your tastes by experimenting with different vegetables. Adding bell peppers, broccoli, or corn can introduce new flavors and textures. Fresh herbs like parsley or dill can brighten the dish up just before serving. Just remember to adjust cooking times slightly for firmer vegetables to ensure everything is cooked through.

For a creamier version, you might consider stirring in a can of cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup along with the other ingredients. This will lend a rich, creamy texture that transforms the dish completely, making it feel luxurious with minimal effort.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use leftover chicken instead?

Absolutely! Leftover chicken works perfectly in this dish.

→ Can this casserole be made ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate it before baking.

→ What can I substitute for chicken broth?

You can use vegetable broth or water with seasoning as a substitute.

→ Is it possible to freeze the casserole?

Yes, you can freeze it before baking for up to three months. Just bake it straight from the freezer, adding a bit more time.