If you’re craving a cozy, comforting meal that brings all the flavors of Italy right to your dinner table, then this Italian Chicken Rice Casserole Recipe is your new best friend. Imagine tender shredded chicken, creamy melted cheese, and a tangy marinara sauce all baked together with fluffy rice and just the right blend of Italian herbs. This dish is hearty without being complicated, perfect for busy weeknights or for feeding a crowd when you want something both satisfying and effortlessly delicious. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll be a regular request around your house!
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple, straightforward, and each one plays a crucial role in creating the rich taste and wonderful texture of this casserole. From the comforting creaminess provided by the sour cream to the fresh bite of sautéed spinach, every bite bursts with flavor.
- 2 cups cooked white rice: The perfect base that soaks up all the savory goodness while keeping the dish light.
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced): A lean protein that keeps things hearty and satisfying.
- 1 cup marinara sauce: Adds that classic Italian tang and a vibrant red color to brighten the dish.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Keeps the casserole moist and infuses it with extra depth of flavor.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Brings creaminess and a slight tang that balances the tomato sauce beautifully.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts perfectly over the casserole, give it that irresistible cheesy pull.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty flavor that rounds out the cheese blend.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant mix of herbs that delivers authentic Italian flair.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Gives a subtle but essential hint of garlic.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Boosts savory depth without the bite of fresh onion.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors just right.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a touch of warmth and spice.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For perfectly sautéed onions with a silky finish.
- 1/2 cup chopped onion: Adds sweetness and texture when sautéed.
- 1 cup baby spinach (optional): A fresh, vibrant addition that wilts down and blends seamlessly.
How to Make Italian Chicken Rice Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Start by heating olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté them until they’re soft and translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes. If you’re adding spinach, toss it in now and cook until it just wilts—this step builds a tender veggie base that adds a subtle sweetness and earthy flavor to your casserole.
Step 2: Combine the Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix together cooked rice, chicken, marinara sauce, chicken broth, and sour cream. Then stir in mozzarella, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. The magic is in the blending—each ingredient works together to create layers of flavor and a creamy, saucy texture. Fold in the sautéed onions and spinach for that final burst of freshness.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and spread the mixture evenly inside. If you love extra cheese, sprinkle a bit more mozzarella and Parmesan on top for a golden, bubbly crust. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25 to 30 minutes until the casserole is heated through and the cheese on top is beautifully melted and slightly browned. Let it rest a few minutes before serving to let the flavors settle and the casserole firm up just enough for perfect slices.
How to Serve Italian Chicken Rice Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of chopped parsley add a pop of green and a fresh herbal note that pairs wonderfully with the Italian seasoning in the dish. A light drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil over each serving brings a silky finish that’s simply irresistible.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette to contrast the creamy richness. Garlic bread or a warm baguette are perfect for soaking up every last bit of saucy goodness on the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this Italian Chicken Rice Casserole Recipe in individual ramekins for a special dinner party look, or scoop it into colorful bowls with a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for a cozy family meal. Adding a side bowl of extra marinara sauce lets everyone customize their experience with a little extra sauciness.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer leftovers to an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will actually deepen overnight, making second-day servings even tastier!
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully. After baking, let it cool completely, then wrap tightly with foil or plastic wrap and freeze up to 2 months. It’s a perfect option for busy weeknights or for prepping meals ahead of time.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen, then warm individual portions in the microwave or reheat the whole dish covered with foil in a 350°F oven until warmed through. A few minutes under the broiler will revive the golden cheesy crust flawlessly.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice works well and adds a nuttier flavor and extra fiber while maintaining the wonderful texture of the casserole.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this Italian Chicken Rice Casserole Recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free marinara sauce and chicken broth.
Can I add other vegetables to the casserole?
Yes! Mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers make great additions and add more color, nutrients, and delicious layers of flavor.
What’s the best type of chicken to use?
Rotisserie chicken is perfect for this recipe—it’s tender, flavorful, and saves time—but leftover cooked chicken or grilled chicken will work just as well.
Can this dish be made dairy-free?
Absolutely, swap out sour cream and cheeses for your favorite dairy-free alternatives, and it will still be creamy and delicious!
Final Thoughts
This Italian Chicken Rice Casserole Recipe is more than just dinner—it’s a warm hug on a plate that brings comfort, flavor, and joy together effortlessly. I can’t wait for you to try it and share it with the people you love. It’s so simple but packed with taste, making it a true staple for any meal rotation.
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: Gluten Free
Description
This Italian Chicken Rice Casserole is a comforting and flavorful one-dish meal combining tender cooked chicken, fluffy white rice, and a savory blend of marinara sauce, cheeses, and Italian seasonings. Enhanced with sautéed onions and optional spinach, it’s baked to golden bubbly perfection, making it an ideal easy family dinner option that’s both hearty and gluten-free.
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 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Vegetables & Oils
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1 cup baby spinach (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking the casserole evenly.
- Sauté Onion and Spinach: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it becomes soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. If using spinach, add it to the skillet and cook just until wilted to retain freshness and nutrients.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, chicken, marinara sauce, chicken broth, sour cream, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir in the sautéed onion and spinach. Mix everything thoroughly until the mixture is well combined and evenly coated.
- Assemble Casserole: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Pour the combined mixture into the dish and spread it out evenly. For an extra cheesy top, sprinkle additional mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses if desired.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Bake until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown and slightly crisp.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. This resting period helps the casserole set, making it easier to serve. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- Rotisserie chicken works great in this recipe to save time without sacrificing flavor.
- You can substitute brown rice or cauliflower rice for white rice to alter texture or carb content.
- For added vegetables, consider mixing in chopped zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers before baking.
