If you’re looking for a cozy and satisfying meal, this Angel Chicken Rice Casserole is the perfect choice. It’s creamy, cheesy, and full of comforting flavors. This dish combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a rich, cheesy sauce that bakes into a deliciously satisfying casserole. With a touch of Italian seasoning and a creamy base of butter and cream cheese, this is a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Easy to prepare and quick to bake, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or a hearty weekend meal.
Ingredients
- Cooked chicken: 3 cups, diced or shredded
- Cooked rice: 3 cups
- Butter: ½ cup, cubed and at room temperature
- Cream cheese: 8 ounces, cubed and at room temperature
- Cream of chicken soup: 1 (10.5-ounce) can
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Italian dressing mix: 0.7 ounce (recommended: Good Seasons brand)
- Chicken stock: 1 cup
- Shredded Colby Jack cheese: 2 cups, divided
- Salt and pepper: to taste
- Fresh parsley: for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Casserole Dish
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly coat a 9×13-inch casserole dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Soften the Butter and Cream Cheese
- Place the butter and cream cheese cubes in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave for 20-30 seconds, just until softened. Whisk the mixture until it is smooth and creamy. This will form the base for the casserole’s rich sauce.
- Mix the Ingredients Together
- 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 until all the ingredients are thoroughly combined.
- Assemble the Casserole
- Transfer the chicken and rice mixture into the prepared casserole dish, spreading it evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining shredded Colby Jack cheese over the top of the casserole.
- Bake the Casserole
- Cover the casserole dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. During this time, the cheese will melt, and the casserole will become bubbly.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes if you’d like the cheese on top to be golden and slightly crispy.
- Let It Rest and Garnish
- Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for about 5 minutes. This helps the flavors to settle and makes it easier to serve.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Angel Chicken Rice Casserole on its own for a filling meal, or pair it with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables to add some crunch and freshness. You can also add a side of garlic bread for extra comfort!
Conclusion
This Angel Chicken Rice Casserole is a delightful way to enjoy comforting flavors in a single dish. The creaminess from the cheese and butter, combined with the savory taste of Italian herbs, creates a meal that’s both delicious and satisfying. It’s the perfect recipe for busy nights, as it comes together quickly and bakes into a warm, bubbling casserole that everyone will love. Enjoy this easy, hearty meal with your loved ones, and it just might become a new household staple!