Description
This Cheesy Angel Chicken and Rice casserole is a comforting, easy-to-make dish featuring tender chicken, creamy cheese sauce, and flavorful rice topped with melted Colby Jack cheese. Perfect for a hearty family meal, it combines simple ingredients with a creamy, cheesy texture heated to perfection in the oven.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein & Dairy
- 3 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded
- ½ cup butter, room temperature and cubed
- 8 ounces cream cheese, room temperature and cubed
- 10.5 ounces cream of chicken soup
- 2 cups shredded Colby Jack cheese, divided
Grains & Liquids
- 3 cups cooked rice
- 1 cup chicken stock
Seasonings & Aromatics
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 0.7 ounce Italian dressing mix (such as Good Seasons)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Generously spray a 9×13 inch casserole dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Soften Cream Cheese and Butter: Place the cubed cream cheese and butter in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave for 20-30 seconds until softened, then whisk together until smooth and creamy.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cooked rice, the softened cream cheese and butter mixture, cream of chicken soup, minced garlic, Italian dressing mix, chicken stock, half of the shredded Colby Jack cheese, salt, and pepper. Stir well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Assemble Casserole: Transfer the combined chicken and rice mixture into the prepared casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining shredded Colby Jack cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Bake: Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is thoroughly melted and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.
- Cool and Garnish: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool uncovered for 5 minutes. Remove the foil and garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
- Serve: Serve warm as a satisfying main dish. Enjoy your cheesy, comforting Angel Chicken and Rice casserole!
Notes
- Using leftover or rotisserie chicken can save time and add flavor.
- You can substitute cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom or celery soup for a different taste.
- Adding steamed vegetables like broccoli or peas can enhance the nutritional value and texture.
- If you prefer a crispier cheese topping, remove the foil in the last 5 minutes of baking.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
