If you’re craving a dish that wraps you in the warmest hug of comfort food, look no further than this Cheesy Angel Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe. It’s a velvety, cheesy, and satisfying casserole that brings together tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a dreamy blend of cheeses and creamy goodness. This recipe is straightforward but absolutely packed with flavor, making it a perfect weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleaser for family gatherings. Each bite melts in your mouth with a perfect balance of savory, creamy, and slightly tangy notes that make this casserole an irresistible classic.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Cheesy Angel Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe shines thanks to its simple, yet essential ingredients. Each component adds a unique touch—whether it’s the rich cream cheese creating that silky texture, the tender chicken for heartiness, or the Colby Jack cheese delivering melty goodness and a pop of color.
- 3 cups cooked chicken: Use diced or shredded to suit your texture preference and ensure tenderness.
- 3 cups cooked rice: The fluffy base that soaks up all the creamy flavors beautifully.
- 1/2 cup butter (room temperature and cubed): Helps create a smooth, rich sauce that ties everything together.
- 8 ounces cream cheese (room temperature and cubed): Gives the casserole a deliciously creamy, tangy depth.
- 10.5 ounces cream of chicken soup: Adds moisture and savory richness to keep every bite moist.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses the dish with a warm, fragrant kick that elevates the flavor profile.
- 0.7 ounce Italian dressing mix: Brings a subtle herbaceous zing and complexity to the sauce.
- 1 cup chicken stock: Ensures the dish isn’t dry and enhances savory notes.
- 2 cups shredded Colby Jack cheese (divided): Half goes inside for melty goodness, and the rest on top for a beautifully golden, cheesy crust.
- Salt and pepper to taste: To balance and season all the flavors just right.
How to Make Cheesy Angel Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Dish
First things first, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grab a 9×13-inch casserole dish and generously spray it with cooking spray so the casserole won’t stick—this little step ensures a smooth serving experience later.
Step 2: Create the Creamy Base
Place the cubed cream cheese and butter in a microwave-safe bowl and soften them together for about 20-30 seconds. Then whisk until smooth and creamy, creating the luscious, velvety foundation of your casserole.
Step 3: Mix All Main Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cooked rice, the buttery cream cheese mixture, cream of chicken soup, minced garlic, Italian dressing mix, chicken stock, half of the shredded Colby Jack cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix thoroughly until every ingredient is evenly incorporated into a harmonious, creamy blend.
Step 4: Transfer to Your Casserole Dish
Pour the mixture into the prepared casserole dish, spreading it out evenly. This helps it cook uniformly and develop that delightful cheesy crust on top.
Step 5: Add the Cheesy Topping
Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese on top, making sure to cover the casserole entirely—even those corners deserve some cheesy love!
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Cover the dish with foil and pop it into the oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, just until the cheese is melted and the casserole is bubbling with that inviting, cozy vibe.
Step 7: Let It Rest
Remove from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes before taking off the foil. This short pause helps the casserole set and makes serving easier.
Step 8: Final Touches and Serve
If you want to add a fresh touch, sprinkle some chopped parsley on top. Then dive into every creamy, cheesy bite and enjoy the comforting flavors that make this Cheesy Angel Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe a true family favorite.
How to Serve Cheesy Angel Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives adds a pop of color and a hint of brightness that complements the rich casserole perfectly. If you want a little crunch, crushed buttery crackers or fried onions on top right before serving can add texture that’s simply irresistible.
Side Dishes
This casserole is hearty on its own, but pairing it with crisp side dishes balances the meal beautifully. A simple green salad with tangy vinaigrette or a medley of steamed vegetables like broccoli and carrots bring freshness and color to your plate. For a carb companion, garlic bread or soft dinner rolls go wonderfully to scoop up every last cheesy bite.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this casserole in individual ramekins for a charming, personal touch when entertaining. Or present it as a layered bake with a colorful side salad arranged around the plate to wow your guests. You can also top each portion with a fried egg for a delightful brunch twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Got leftovers? No problem. Store your Cheesy Angel Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping it tightly sealed locks in freshness and flavor, so you get the same delightful experience when reheating.
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully, making it a wonderful make-ahead option. Wrap the casserole (or individual portions) tightly in foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge.
Reheating
To reheat, pop the thawed casserole back in a 350 degrees Fahrenheit oven covered with foil for about 20 minutes, or until warmed through. Removing the foil in the last five minutes helps refresh that melty cheese topping without drying out the dish.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice in this casserole?
Absolutely! Brown rice adds a nuttier flavor and firmer texture. Just make sure it’s fully cooked before mixing it in, as it won’t cook much more during baking.
Is it okay to substitute the cream of chicken soup with a homemade version?
Definitely! Making your own cream soup can reduce preservatives and customize flavors. A simple white sauce thickened with chicken broth works wonderfully in this recipe.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time and bake it later?
Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s going in cold.
What can I add to make this casserole spicier?
Try stirring in some diced jalapeños, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or a drizzle of hot sauce before baking to add a spicy kick that contrasts nicely with the creamy cheese.
Is this casserole suitable for meal prep and freezing in individual portions?
For sure. Portioning it out before freezing makes it easy to grab a comforting meal anytime. Just thaw and reheat as needed for quick, delicious dinners.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Angel Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe is a delicious celebration of comfort food done right. Its creamy, cheesy richness paired with tender chicken and fluffy rice makes it a keeper for busy weeknights and special occasions alike. I encourage you to give this heartwarming casserole a try—it’s the kind of recipe that becomes a beloved staple in your kitchen and a sincere crowd-pleaser every time. Happy cooking and happy eating!
Print
Cheesy Angel Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 to 8 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Cheesy Angel Chicken and Rice Casserole is a comforting, creamy baked dish combining tender cooked chicken, fluffy rice, a rich mixture of cream cheese, butter, and cream of chicken soup, all topped with melted Colby Jack cheese. Perfect for a cozy family meal, this casserole delivers warmth and cheesy goodness in every bite.
Ingredients
Protein and Rice
- 3 cups cooked chicken (diced or shredded)
- 3 cups cooked rice
Dairy and Creamy Ingredients
- 1/2 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)
Flavorings and Liquids
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 0.7 ounce Italian dressing mix
- 1 cup chicken stock
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) and generously spray a 9×13” casserole dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Soften cream cheese and butter: In a microwave-safe bowl, soften the cream cheese and butter together in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds. Once softened, whisk them until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Combine ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cooked rice, butter and cream cheese mixture, cream of chicken soup, minced garlic, Italian dressing mix, chicken stock, half of the shredded cheese, and salt and pepper. Mix all the ingredients together thoroughly until they are evenly combined.
- Prepare the casserole dish: Transfer the chicken and rice mixture into the prepared casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Add cheese topping: Top the mixture with the remaining shredded cheese, ensuring all corners are covered for a cheesy finish.
- Bake the casserole: Cover the dish with foil and place it in the oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the casserole is bubbling.
- Cool and uncover: Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for about 5 minutes. Remove the foil after cooling.
- Garnish and serve: Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot.
- Suggested side dishes: Pair with a light side salad with vinaigrette, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread for a complete meal.
- Recommended drinks: A chilled glass of lemonade or sweet tea complements this dish well.
- Ingredient substitutions: Substitute cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom or homemade white sauce if desired.
- Golden top option: For a golden-brown cheese topping, bake uncovered for the last 5-10 minutes instead of covered with foil.
- Avoid lumps: Ensure cream cheese is softened and all ingredients are mixed well for a creamy texture.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator up to 3 days or freeze up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Thaw frozen casserole overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven at 350°F covered with foil until warmed through.
- Enjoy: Relish the comforting, cheesy flavors with family and friends!
Notes
- You can swap cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom or homemade white sauce to alter flavor and texture.
- For a golden crust, remove foil in the last 5-10 minutes of baking.
- Softening cream cheese properly prevents lumps and ensures smooth sauce.
- Mix all ingredients thoroughly to maintain an even, creamy consistency.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container to preserve freshness for up to 3 days refrigerated or up to 3 months frozen.
- Reheat covered in the oven to keep casserole moist and delicious.
- Fresh parsley garnish adds a pop of color and fresh flavor.
