Rotisserie Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe
If you’re craving the kind of comfort food that wraps you up in a warm, delicious hug, look no further than Rotisserie Chicken and Rice Casserole. This family-friendly classic brings together juicy rotisserie chicken, fluffy rice, crisp-tender vegetables, and gooey cheddar cheese in one cheesy, crowd-pleasing bake. It’s easy enough for a busy weeknight, yet satisfying and nostalgic enough to serve as a signature dish when loved ones gather around the table.

Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the joys of Rotisserie Chicken and Rice Casserole is how the simplest ingredients work perfectly in harmony: every element adds something special, whether it’s creamy richness, irresistible crunch, or a burst of savory flavor. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need (and why you’ll love working with them).
- Rotisserie chicken (3 cups, shredded): The star that adds savory, tender flavor with zero fuss — perfect for using leftovers or a store-bought bird.
- Cooked white or brown rice (2 cups): Serves as the hearty, comforting base, ready to soak up all the creamy goodness.
- Sour cream (1 cup): Brings tang and creaminess for that classic casserole texture.
- Cream of chicken soup (1 can, 10.5 ounces): Adds savory depth and thickens everything to perfection.
- Milk (1 cup): Lightens the sauce and brings everything together with a smooth touch.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1 and 1/2 cups, divided): For oozy, cheesy goodness both inside and on top — use sharp cheddar for maximum flavor.
- Frozen peas and carrots (1 cup, thawed): Lend classic color and a sweet pop of veggie freshness in every bite.
- Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a subtle, savory kick that melds beautifully with the chicken and rice.
- Onion powder (1/2 teaspoon): Rounds out the seasoning with just the right hint of onion flavor.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Essential for bringing out the best in every ingredient.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Just enough to add warmth without overpowering the other flavors.
- Crushed butter crackers or breadcrumbs (1/2 cup, optional): Give your casserole irresistible crunch and a golden top — totally optional, totally delicious.
- Melted butter (1 tablespoon): Used with the crunchy topping for extra richness and a buttery bite.
How to Make Rotisserie Chicken and Rice Casserole
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Taking a moment to prep your pan ensures your Rotisserie Chicken and Rice Casserole won’t stick and will turn out perfectly golden every time.
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Base
In a large bowl, whisk together the sour cream, cream of chicken soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. This creamy mixture forms the flavorful foundation that binds all the goodness together and gives your casserole its irresistible forkfuls.
Step 3: Add the Chicken, Rice, Veggies, and Cheese
Fold the shredded chicken, cooked rice, thawed peas and carrots, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese into the bowl. Stir everything until it’s well mixed — you want every bite of your Rotisserie Chicken and Rice Casserole to be full of chicken, veggies, and cheesy comfort.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Pour the creamy chicken and rice mixture into your prepared dish and use a spatula to spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese all over the top, ensuring it melts into a bubbly, golden layer as it bakes.
Step 5: Add the Topping (Optional)
If you love a crisp, buttery crust, combine the crushed butter crackers or breadcrumbs with melted butter and scatter evenly on top of the cheese layer. This step is optional, but it turns your Rotisserie Chicken and Rice Casserole into something extra special.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden
Pop your casserole into the oven. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown. The smell might just bring the whole household into the kitchen!
Step 7: Let It Rest and Serve
Once your Rotisserie Chicken and Rice Casserole is baked, let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes before digging in. This short wait allows the casserole to set, making it easier to cut and serve neat, hearty portions.
How to Serve Rotisserie Chicken and Rice Casserole

Garnishes
A simple sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley can add a cheerful pop of color, but you could also top with sliced green onions, a flick of cracked black pepper, or even a scattering of extra cheese just before serving. These little touches brighten the dish and make it feel extra special.
Side Dishes
This Rotisserie Chicken and Rice Casserole is a complete meal all on its own, but it pairs beautifully with simple side salads, lightly steamed broccoli, or a platter of roasted vegetables. For a cozy touch, serve with warm dinner rolls to soak up every bit of creamy sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Try baking the casserole in individual ramekins for a dinner party, dishing it into colorful bowls, or serving family-style right from the baking dish. For a potluck, you can slice the casserole into tidy squares, making serving a breeze and allowing everyone to savor their share.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Rotisserie Chicken and Rice Casserole stores incredibly well. Transfer cooled leftovers into an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to four days. It actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop!
Freezing
For those who love meal prepping, this casserole is a dream. Let it cool completely, then wrap tightly in foil or store in a freezer-safe dish. It’ll keep for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking or reheating for the best results.
Reheating
To warm up leftovers, pop individual portions in the microwave, or reheat the whole casserole (covered with foil) in a 350°F oven until hot through. Add a splash of milk or a sprinkle of cheese if you like — it’ll be as creamy and comforting as the day you made it!
FAQs
Can I use other vegetables in this casserole?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap in broccoli florets, baby spinach, bell peppers, or whatever cooked veggies you have on hand. It’s a great way to use up odds and ends from your fridge.
Is it possible to make Rotisserie Chicken and Rice Casserole gluten-free?
Yes, just choose a gluten-free cream of chicken soup and use gluten-free crackers or breadcrumbs for the topping (or omit it entirely). Be sure to double-check product labels.
Can I assemble this ahead of time?
Definitely. Prepare the casserole right up to the baking stage, cover tightly, and refrigerate overnight. When ready to enjoy, bake as directed (you may need to add 5–10 extra minutes if baking straight from the fridge).
What kind of rice works best?
Both white and brown rice work beautifully in Rotisserie Chicken and Rice Casserole. Just make sure it’s cooked and cooled before stirring in. Leftover rice is perfect and saves time!
How can I make this casserole a little lighter?
For a lighter version, use reduced-fat cheese and sour cream, and try adding extra veggies. You can also use light cream of chicken soup or make your own from scratch for more control over the ingredients.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something magical about sitting down with a generous helping of Rotisserie Chicken and Rice Casserole. It’s simple, satisfying, and perfect for everything from weeknight dinners to potluck parties. Give it a try — your kitchen, and everyone lucky enough to join you at the table, will thank you!
Print
Rotisserie Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Rotisserie Chicken and Rice Casserole is a comforting and easy-to-make dish that the whole family will love. Creamy and flavorful, it’s perfect for a delicious weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
For the Casserole:
- 3 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
- 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup milk
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots (thawed)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Topping (Optional):
- 1/2 cup crushed butter crackers or breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Prepare the Casserole: In a large bowl, mix sour cream, cream of chicken soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Add chicken, rice, peas, and 1 cup of cheddar cheese. Combine well.
- Bake: Pour the mixture into the baking dish, top with the remaining cheddar cheese. Optionally, mix the crushed crackers or breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the casserole. Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden and bubbly. Rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Use leftover or pre-cooked rice for convenience.
- Substitute broccoli or spinach for peas and carrots if desired.
- This casserole freezes well; thaw before baking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 85mg