Easy Lemon Pepper Chicken Rice Casserole
A comforting one-dish casserole combining tender shredded chicken, instant rice, and cream of chicken soup seasoned with lemon pepper. The blend of Colby jack and parmesan cheeses creates a rich, melty topping that pairs perfectly with the zesty seasoning. This family-friendly meal is ideal for busy weeknights when you need something satisfying that comes together quickly. Perfect for using up leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken, making it both economical and convenient.
Ingredients
- 3 cup chicken, cooked and shredded
- 2 cup instant ricelong grain white rice1:1gluten-free
cook separately first
- 22 ⅝ oz cream of chicken soup, one family style can
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon lemon pepper seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ⅛ teaspoon pepper
- 1 cup Colby jack cheese, shreddedcheddar cheese1:1none
similar melt and flavor
- 1 cup parmesan cheese, shredded
Instructions
- 1
Preheat oven to 350 degrees
- 2
Cook rice according to package directions
- 3
Mix cooked chicken, cooked rice, cream of chicken soup, onion powder, garlic powder, lemon pepper seasoning, salt, pepper, and half of both cheeses in a large bowl
- 4
Transfer mixture to a casserole dish
- 5
Top with remaining Colby jack and parmesan cheese
- 6
Bake for 20-25 minutes then serve
Tips
Use rotisserie chicken for convenience - just remove skin and shred the meat for quick prep.
Let the casserole rest 5 minutes after baking to allow the cheese to set and make serving easier.
Add frozen peas or corn for extra color and nutrition without changing the cooking time.
Good to Know
Refrigerate leftovers up to 3 days in covered container
Assemble casserole up to 1 day ahead, cover and refrigerate, add 5-10 minutes to baking time
Serve hot directly from casserole dish with a side salad or steamed vegetables
Common Mistakes
Do not overbake to avoid dried out chicken and rice
Cook rice fully before mixing to prevent crunchy texture in final dish
Substitutions
Gluten-Free Swaps
cook separately first
General Alternatives
FAQ
Can I use uncooked chicken in this recipe?
No, this recipe requires pre-cooked chicken. Cook and shred chicken completely before mixing with other ingredients for food safety and proper texture.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, freeze assembled unbaked casserole up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in refrigerator then bake as directed, adding extra 10-15 minutes if needed.
What if I don't have lemon pepper seasoning?
Mix 1/2 teaspoon black pepper with 1/2 teaspoon dried lemon zest, or use regular black pepper and add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.