Description
Cheesy Angel Chicken and Rice is a comforting casserole dish that combines tender cooked chicken, fluffy rice, creamy cheeses, and a flavorful blend of seasonings. This easy-to-make recipe bakes to bubbly perfection with a golden melted cheese topping, making it a perfect weeknight dinner option for the whole family.
Ingredients
Chicken and Rice Mixture
- 3 cups cooked chicken (diced or shredded)
- 3 cups cooked rice
- ½ cup butter (room temperature and cubed)
- 8 ounces cream cheese (room temperature and cubed)
- 10.5 ounces cream of chicken soup
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 0.7 ounce Italian dressing mix (Good Seasons recommended)
- 1 cup chicken stock
- Salt and pepper to taste
Topping
- 2 cups shredded Colby Jack cheese (divided use)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Generously spray a 9x13 inch casserole dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Soften cheeses: In a microwave-safe bowl, soften the cream cheese and butter by microwaving for 20-30 seconds. Whisk together until smooth and creamy.
- Mix ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cooked rice, softened butter and cream cheese mixture, cream of chicken soup, minced garlic, Italian dressing mix, chicken stock, half of the shredded Colby Jack cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Assemble casserole: Transfer the combined chicken and rice mixture into the prepared casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Add cheese topping: Sprinkle the remaining shredded Colby Jack cheese evenly over the top of the mixture.
- Bake: Cover the casserole dish tightly with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.
- Rest and uncover: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes. Then carefully remove the foil.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle fresh parsley over the top for a burst of color and freshness. Serve warm and enjoy your cheesy chicken and rice casserole.
Notes
- Make sure the cream cheese and butter are softened to room temperature for easy mixing and a creamy texture.
- You can use leftover cooked chicken and rice or freshly prepared for best flavor.
- The Italian dressing mix adds a zesty flavor boost, but you can substitute with Italian seasoning if unavailable.
- Covering the casserole while baking keeps the moisture in for tender chicken and rice.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated well.
- Feel free to add vegetables like peas or chopped broccoli for added nutrition and color.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
