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
Scale
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.
