Leftover Magic: Reinventing Rotisserie Chicken & Rice Casserole for Comfort and Convenience

Rotisserie Chicken and Rice Casserole with Leftovers

Introduction

Few dishes balance comfort, convenience, and taste like a Rotisserie Chicken and Rice Casserole with Leftovers. This satisfying meal transforms last night’s rotisserie chicken and stray veggies into a creamy, golden-baked casserole that’s sure to please a crowd. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, this is the go-to recipe for turning leftovers into a fresh, hearty family dinner.

Why This Rotisserie Chicken and Rice Casserole Stands Out

This casserole is not just practical; it’s also delightfully flavorful. Tender pieces of savory rotisserie chicken meld perfectly with fluffy rice, crisp veggies, and a creamy sauce—all topped with a golden crust. The best part? It’s endlessly customizable to whatever’s in your fridge, making it a true weeknight staple for busy cooks.

Streamlining Prep with the Best Tools

Efficiently chop veggies and prep leftover ingredients using a Mueller Pro-Series 10-in-1, 8 Blade Vegetable Chopper, which makes quick work of onions, carrots, and celery, turning a once time-consuming process into a breeze. If you want to add a crispy finish, a COSORI Air Fryer 9-in-1, Compact & Large 6-Qt can add a roasted crunch to topping ingredients in minutes.

To keep clean-up simple, line your baking pan with Reynolds Kitchens Brown Parchment Paper Roll for effortless serving and easy pan care.

Making a Creamy, Flavorful Casserole Base

A luxurious base is key to any memorable casserole. Use a mix of condensed cream soup (like chicken or mushroom), sour cream, and a dash of chicken broth for a silky texture that binds the chicken and rice. Enhance flavor with seasonings like garlic powder, thyme, and smoked paprika. Blending everything to a smooth consistency can be achieved quickly in a Ninja BL610 Professional 72 Oz Countertop Blender, ensuring lump-free sauce in seconds.

Layering and Baking for Cozy Perfection

Once your rice (use leftover or quick-cook for ultimate ease), veggies, chicken, and sauce are combined, layer them in your casserole dish. Top with your choice of shredded cheese, buttered breadcrumbs, or crispy onions for a golden crust.

Bake until bubbly and lightly browned. For even browning, rotate your dish halfway through the baking process and cover with foil if it browns too quickly.

Serving and Storing Your Rotisserie Chicken and Rice Casserole

Enjoy this casserole piping hot from the oven. Tote leftovers easily and keep them fresh in Rubbermaid Brilliance Food Storage Containers, Set of 5 (3.2 Cup)—perfect for meal prep, work lunches, or freezing a portion for another easy dinner night.

Nutritional Information and Yield

This rotisserie chicken and rice casserole typically serves 6 generous portions, with each serving averaging 350–450 calories (depending on additions and toppings). It’s balanced, filling, and a wholesome way to stretch leftovers into something delicious.

Rotisserie Chicken and Rice Casserole (Recap)

This dish effortlessly transforms leftover chicken and odds-and-ends vegetables into a crowd-pleasing casserole with creamy, crispy, and savory notes in every bite. With the right prep tools and quick assembly, it’s an ideal weeknight solution that leaves no leftovers behind.

Ingredients

2 cups cooked white or brown rice (leftover or freshly prepared)
2 cups chopped rotisserie chicken (skin and bones removed)
1 cup mixed vegetables (such as peas, carrots, and/or corn)
1/2 onion, diced
1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken or mushroom soup
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
1/2 cup buttered breadcrumbs or fried onions (optional, for topping)
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish by lining it with a layer of Reynolds Kitchens Brown Parchment Paper Roll for quick cleanup.
  2. Dice all your vegetables quickly and evenly with a Mueller Pro-Series 10-in-1, 8 Blade Vegetable Chopper.
  3. In a large bowl, combine cream soup, sour cream, chicken broth, garlic powder, thyme, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. For a super smooth mixture, blend ingredients in a Ninja BL610 Professional 72 Oz Countertop Blender.
  4. Add cooked rice, chicken, vegetables, and diced onion to the bowl. Mix well to combine.
  5. Spoon the mixture into the prepared casserole dish. Scatter cheese on top, then finish with buttered breadcrumbs or fried onions if desired.
  6. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbling and the top is lightly browned.
  7. Let stand for 5 minutes, then garnish with fresh parsley (if using) before serving. Store leftovers in Rubbermaid Brilliance Food Storage Containers, Set of 5 (3.2 Cup) for easy portioning and reheating.

Cook and Prep Times

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 35 minutes

Total Time: 50 minutes

Enjoy transforming leftovers into a heartwarming meal that feels entirely new!

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