If you’re craving something cozy, cheesy, and deeply satisfying, you’ll fall in love with this Italian Chicken Rice Casserole. It’s that magical dish that brings together juicy chicken, tender rice, a swirl of marinara, and layers of creamy, melty cheese for a dinner that’s destined to become a household favorite. What makes it shine is how the Italian herbs and simple ingredients work in beautiful harmony, making each bite pop with flavor and comfort. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal-prepping for the week, this casserole delivers all the flavor and convenience you could ever want from a weeknight winner.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the ingredients for this Italian Chicken Rice Casserole couldn’t be easier! Each element plays a key role, bringing either creaminess, heartiness, or that classic Italian zest. With such a simple ingredient list, you’ll be surprised by the big flavors that develop as everything bakes together.
- Cooked white rice: The base of the casserole that soaks up all the delicious flavors; you can swap with brown or cauliflower rice for a twist.
- Cooked chicken (shredded or diced): Juicy, tender protein; rotisserie or leftover chicken makes prep a breeze.
- Marinara sauce: Adds classic Italian tomato richness and ties all the flavors together.
- Chicken broth: Keeps the casserole moist and infuses extra savory flavor.
- Sour cream: Lends a creamy tang that makes the texture dreamy and light.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully into stretchy, gooey layers of cheesy bliss.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, salty note and golden crust on top.
- Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend that brings all the Mediterranean vibes.
- Garlic powder: Gives a gentle garlicky backbone without overpowering the dish.
- Onion powder: Adds mellow sweetness and savory flavor throughout.
- Salt: Enhances and balances all the other flavors.
- Black pepper: Brings a hint of warmth and depth.
- Olive oil: Used for sautéing for its fruity richness.
- Chopped onion: Sautéed for a foundation of caramelized sweetness and flavor.
- Baby spinach (optional): Wilts beautifully and adds color and a pop of veggie goodness (feel free to sub in your favorite greens).
How to Make Italian Chicken Rice Casserole
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C), setting the stage for that perfect bubbling, golden casserole. While it heats, grab your favorite 9×13-inch baking dish and give it a light coating of oil or spray, so nothing sticks and cleanup is a breeze.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics and Greens
In a skillet over medium heat, warm up the olive oil and toss in the chopped onion. Sauté for 3 to 4 minutes, just until the onion turns translucent and smells incredible. If you’re using spinach, stir it in and let it wilt for an extra boost of color and nutrients—don’t skip this step if you love a hearty, veggie-packed casserole!
Step 3: Mix Up the Casserole Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, cooked chicken, marinara sauce, chicken broth, sour cream, shredded mozzarella, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Don’t shy away from mixing everything thoroughly, making sure each grain of rice and bite of chicken get coated in that savory, creamy blend.
Step 4: Add the Sautéed Veggies
Scoop every bit of those sautéed onions (and spinach, if using) right into the bowl. Give everything another good mix—this step ensures every mouthful of your Italian Chicken Rice Casserole has sweet onion and fresh greens tucked inside.
Step 5: Assemble and Top
Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly to the corners for a uniform bake. If you want to go extra cheesy (who could blame you?), sprinkle a little extra mozzarella and Parmesan over the top. This final layer turns gorgeously golden and bubbling in the oven.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Pop your casserole into the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’re looking for a bubbly, lightly golden masterpiece that smells like an Italian kitchen in full swing. Let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes after baking—this allows the layers to settle and makes serving a cinch.
How to Serve Italian Chicken Rice Casserole
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley over your Italian Chicken Rice Casserole makes the flavors pop and adds a splash of cheerful color. For extra flair, a little extra Parmesan or a drizzle of good olive oil just before serving will make your casserole feel even more special.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs beautifully with a simple green salad tossed in a zesty vinaigrette or some roasted veggies like asparagus or zucchini. Of course, a loaf of crusty bread for scooping up every last morsel is always a welcome addition at the table!
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the Italian Chicken Rice Casserole in individual ramekins for a dinner party twist, or spoon it into hollowed bell peppers before baking for a vibrant, edible serving dish. Little touches like a basil leaf or tomato slice on top turn every plate into an eye-catching feast.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Italian Chicken Rice Casserole keeps well covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Transfer the cooled casserole into airtight containers so it stays moist and fresh for quick lunches or another round at dinner.
Freezing
To freeze, let the casserole cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers or wrap the whole dish in foil and plastic wrap. It’ll keep beautifully in the freezer for up to 2 months—just be sure to label it, so you remember what deliciousness awaits!
Reheating
Warm refrigerated portions in the microwave or cover and reheat the casserole in a 350°F oven until heated through. If frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat as usual. Add a sprinkle of fresh cheese on top before baking for a melty finish.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice in this casserole?
Absolutely! Brown rice is a hearty, high-fiber option that works wonderfully in Italian Chicken Rice Casserole. Just ensure it’s pre-cooked before mixing in, as it needs a little more moisture and time to cook through otherwise.
What’s the best way to make this gluten-free?
Great news: this casserole is naturally gluten-free as long as you choose marinara and chicken broth labeled gluten-free. Always double-check labels if you have a gluten sensitivity to make sure your meal stays safe and delicious.
Can I add extra vegetables to the Italian Chicken Rice Casserole?
Yes! Chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini are all fantastic additions. Sauté them with the onion to soften before mixing into the casserole, adding even more color and nutrition to every slice.
How do I make this casserole ahead for a busy week?
You can assemble the Italian Chicken Rice Casserole up to a day in advance, cover it well, and store it in the fridge before baking. When you’re ready, just bake as directed (add a couple extra minutes since it’ll be cold from the fridge).
Is rotisserie chicken a good shortcut?
Rotisserie chicken is a perfect shortcut! It’s flavorful, moist, and makes preparation super fast, especially on a weeknight. Shredded or diced, it blends right in and saves you an extra step.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend trying this Italian Chicken Rice Casserole enough—it’s a dish I find myself making week after week, and it never fails to bring warmth and smiles to the table. There’s something about the creamy, cheesy layers and comforting flavors that just feels like home. I hope you enjoy every bite as much as my family does!
Print
Italian Chicken Rice Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Italian Chicken Rice Casserole is a comforting and flavorful dish that the whole family will love. With tender chicken, creamy rice, and gooey cheese, it’s a perfect weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked white rice
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced)
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Vegetables (Optional):
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1 cup baby spinach
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Sauté Onion: In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the chopped onion in olive oil until soft, about 3–4 minutes. Add spinach if using and cook until wilted.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine rice, chicken, marinara sauce, chicken broth, sour cream, cheeses, seasonings, sautéed onion, and spinach. Mix well.
- Bake: Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish. Top with extra cheese if desired. Bake for 25–30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Serve: Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Rotisserie chicken works well in this recipe.
- You can use brown rice or cauliflower rice as substitutes.
- Feel free to add more vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
