Description
Cheesy Angel Chicken and Rice is a comforting and creamy baked casserole featuring tender cooked chicken, fluffy rice, and a rich blend of cream cheese, butter, and creamy soup, all generously topped with melted Colby Jack cheese and finished with fresh parsley. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner and serves 8.
Ingredients
Scale
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 (such as Good Seasons)
- 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 (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 on high for 20-30 seconds until softened, then 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, and salt and pepper to taste. Stir well to ensure all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
- Assemble Casserole: Transfer the chicken and rice mixture evenly into the prepared casserole dish, spreading it out smoothly.
- Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the remaining shredded Colby Jack cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Bake: Cover the casserole dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and the mixture is bubbling around the edges.
- Cool and Uncover: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. Carefully remove the foil.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for color and added freshness. Serve warm and enjoy your cheesy, comforting angel chicken and rice casserole.
Notes
- You can use leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken you prefer.
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for the cream cheese and butter, though the texture will be less creamy.
- If you like a little spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the mixture.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the microwave or oven.
- Ensure the cream cheese and butter are softened to blend smoothly for the best creamy texture.
