Nothing beats the cozy, comforting hug of a well-made casserole, especially when it’s packed with rich flavors and easy-to-find ingredients. This Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe is exactly that kind of dish—a golden, creamy, and cheesy masterpiece that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers during a busy week. The blend of three creamy soups, savory garlic herbs, tender rotisserie chicken, and that irresistible parmesan cheese comes together to create a one-pan meal that feels like a warm celebration every time you serve it.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to achieving that perfect blend of creamy, cheesy goodness with a garlicky kick. Each component plays a key role in balancing flavor, moisture, and texture, resulting in a casserole that is satisfying and fuss-free.
- Rotisserie chicken (4 cups cooked chopped): Using pre-cooked chicken saves time and adds juicy tenderness to the dish.
- Unsalted cream of chicken soup (10.5 oz can): Adds velvety richness and chicken undertones to the base.
- Cream of celery soup (10.5 oz can): Introduces a mild, slightly vegetal note that brightens the creaminess.
- Unsalted cream of mushroom soup (10.5 oz can): Brings a deep, earthy layer that amps up the umami flavor.
- Lipton Savory Herb with Garlic Soup & Dip Mix (1 packet): Gives a punch of garlic and herb flavor that perfectly complements parmesan.
- Low-sodium chicken broth (1 cup): Keeps the casserole moist without making it soggy, balancing the richness of the soups.
- Milk (1 cup): Lightens the texture slightly and helps blend all the ingredients smoothly.
- Instant rice (2 cups, uncooked): Cooks right in the casserole, absorbing all those lovely flavors.
- Grated parmesan cheese (¾ cup, fresh or green can): The showstopper topping that melts into a golden, savory crust.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Begin by heating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and lightly greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray. This ensures your casserole won’t stick and helps create those crispy edges everyone loves.
Step 2: Chop the Rotisserie Chicken
Take the skin off your rotisserie chicken and discard it—this keeps the casserole moist but not greasy. Chop the meat into bite-sized pieces, mixing white and dark meat for the best texture and flavor.
Step 3: Combine the Ingredients
In a large bowl, stir together the chopped chicken with all three cream soups, the Lipton herb and garlic mix, chicken broth, milk, and uncooked instant rice. This combination might look thick, but the rice will soften beautifully as it bakes, soaking up all the savory goodness.
Step 4: Bake Part One
Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Pop it into your preheated oven and bake uncovered for 30 minutes. This starts the cooking process for the rice and melds the flavors together into a hearty casserole base.
Step 5: Add Parmesan and Finish Baking
Take the casserole out and give it a good stir to incorporate everything evenly once more. Sprinkle the grated parmesan cheese across the top and return the dish to the oven. Bake for another 10 to 15 minutes, until the cheese melts into a golden, slightly crispy crust that’s impossibly inviting.
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your dish even further, consider sprinkling fresh chopped parsley or chives over the top for a pop of vibrant color and freshness. A little cracked black pepper or a dash of red pepper flakes can bring subtle heat if you love a tiny kick.
Side Dishes
This hearty casserole pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Steamed or roasted seasonal vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or roasted carrots also complement the creamy texture and add nutritional balance.
Creative Ways to Present
Looking to impress guests? Serve individual portions in ramekins topped with a parmesan crisp or a sprinkle of extra fresh herbs. For a family-style presentation, garnish the whole casserole with sliced cherry tomatoes and fresh basil ribbons for a splash of color and brightness.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe leftovers keep beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors only deepen, making reheated portions just as delightful, if not more.
Freezing
This casserole freezes very well. Just let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. To avoid freezer burn, cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
Reheating
For best results reheating, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen. Warm up individual servings in the microwave or reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until heated through and bubbly, around 20-30 minutes. A little extra parmesan on top during reheating can refresh the cheesy crust.
FAQs
Can I use fresh chicken instead of rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely! Cooking and shredding your own chicken breasts or thighs is fine. Just be sure the meat is fully cooked before combining it with other ingredients to ensure proper texture and safety in the casserole.
Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Swap out the Lipton soup & dip mix for a gluten-free version or substitute with your own garlic and herb seasonings. Also, confirm that the cream soups you use are gluten-free or opt for homemade versions to control ingredients.
Can I substitute the instant rice with regular rice?
Using regular rice isn’t recommended unless you precook it, as it won’t fully cook inside the casserole during baking. Instant rice is the best choice here since it absorbs liquid and cooks quickly inside the dish.
What if I want a creamier casserole?
For extra creaminess, add an additional ½ cup of milk or use half-and-half instead. Just keep an eye on the texture and adjust baking times slightly if needed to avoid excess liquid.
Can I add vegetables to this casserole?
Definitely! Chopped mushrooms, spinach, or peas can be stirred in with the other ingredients for added color, nutrition, and flavor. Just make sure to consider their moisture content so the casserole doesn’t become too watery.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a dependable weeknight winner or a reassuring dish to serve friends and family, the Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe is a standout choice. It’s packed with layers of flavor, creamy textures, and that beloved cheesy crust that feels like a warm hug after a long day. Once you try it, you’ll see why it quickly becomes a favorite to make again and again.
Print
Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice Casserole is a comforting, hearty dish featuring tender rotisserie chicken combined with creamy soups, flavorful herb and garlic seasoning, and instant rice, all baked to perfection with a golden parmesan cheese topping. It’s an easy, crowd-pleasing meal perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 rotisserie chicken (about 4 cups cooked, chopped chicken)
Soups and Seasonings
- 1 (10.5-oz) can Unsalted Cream of Chicken Soup
- 1 (10.5-oz) can Cream of Celery Soup
- 1 (10.5-oz) can Unsalted Cream of Mushroom Soup
- 1 packet Lipton Savory Herb with Garlic Soup & Dip Mix
Liquids
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
Grains and Cheese
- 2 cups instant rice (uncooked)
- ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese (fresh or from a green can)
Instructions
- Prepare the oven and pan: Preheat your oven to 400ºF (200ºC). Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking pan with cooking spray to prevent sticking and set it aside for later use.
- Prepare the chicken: Remove the skin from the rotisserie chicken and discard it. Then, carefully remove the chicken meat from the bones and chop into bite-sized pieces.
- Mix ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped chicken, cream of chicken soup, cream of celery soup, cream of mushroom soup, Lipton savory herb with garlic soup & dip mix, low-sodium chicken broth, milk, and uncooked instant rice. Stir until all ingredients are thoroughly incorporated.
- Bake first phase: Pour the combined mixture into the prepared 9×13-inch baking pan. Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
- Stir and add cheese: Remove the casserole from the oven, stir it gently to ensure even cooking, then evenly sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake second phase: Return the casserole to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the rice is tender.
Notes
- Using instant rice reduces cooking time significantly—do not substitute with regular rice without adjusting liquid and cooking time.
- For extra flavor, fresh herbs like parsley or thyme can be sprinkled on top before serving.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- To make this dish lower in sodium, use low-sodium or unsalted soups and broth.
- If you want a crispier top, broil the casserole for a couple of minutes after baking, watching carefully to avoid burning.
