Description
Cheesy Angel Chicken and Rice is a comforting casserole dish combining tender cooked chicken, fluffy rice, creamy cheese, and savory flavors baked to bubbly perfection. It’s an easy, hearty meal perfect for family dinners or meal prep.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Rice
- 3 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded
- 3 cups cooked rice
Dairy and Sauces
- ½ cup butter, room temperature and cubed
- 8 ounces cream cheese, room temperature and cubed
- 10.5 ounces cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup chicken stock
- 2 cups shredded Colby Jack cheese, divided
Seasonings
- 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 prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°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 until smooth and creamy.
- Mix ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cooked rice, the 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 everything is 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 casserole.
- Bake: Cover the casserole dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and the casserole is bubbly around the edges.
- Rest and garnish: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. Then remove the foil and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a bright finish.
- Serve and enjoy: Scoop portions onto plates and enjoy this creamy, cheesy chicken and rice delight!
Notes
- You can substitute cooked rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Use instant rice or leftover rice to save time.
- For a lighter version, use reduced-fat cream cheese and cheese.
- Feel free to add vegetables like peas, carrots, or spinach for extra nutrition.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently.
