Description
Angel Chicken Rice Casserole is a creamy, cheesy baked dish combining tender shredded chicken, fluffy rice, and a flavorful blend of cream cheese, butter, and Italian seasoning. This comforting casserole bakes to perfection with a golden melted cheese topping and is garnished with fresh parsley for a delightful family-friendly meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein & Grains
- 3 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded
- 3 cups cooked rice
Dairy & Creamy Components
- ½ cup unsalted butter, cubed and at room temperature
- 8 ounces cream cheese, cubed and at room temperature
- 2 cups shredded Colby Jack cheese, divided
- 10.5 ounces cream of chicken soup
Seasonings & Liquids
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 0.7-ounce packet Italian dressing mix (e.g., Good Seasons)
- 1 cup chicken stock
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
- Soften butter and cream cheese: Place the butter and cream cheese in a microwave-safe bowl and heat for 20-30 seconds. Remove and whisk together until the mixture is smooth and creamy, which helps to evenly combine it with the other ingredients.
- Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the cooked chicken, cooked rice, softened butter and cream cheese mixture, cream of chicken soup, minced garlic, Italian dressing mix, chicken stock, and half of the shredded Colby Jack cheese. Season the mixture with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your preference, then stir thoroughly until well blended.
- Assemble the casserole: Transfer the mixture into the prepared casserole dish, spreading it out evenly for uniform cooking.
- Add the remaining cheese: Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded Colby Jack cheese evenly over the top of the mixture to create a cheesy crust once baked.
- Bake the casserole: Cover the casserole dish with foil to keep moisture in, then bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. The casserole is done when the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden on top.
- Rest and garnish: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. This resting time helps the dish set for easier serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving to add a fresh, vibrant touch.
Notes
- Ensure the chicken and rice are fully cooked before starting to save time and ensure proper texture.
- Room temperature butter and cream cheese blend more smoothly and mix better into the casserole.
- Feel free to substitute Colby Jack cheese with a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile.
- If you prefer a thicker casserole, reduce the chicken stock slightly.
- This casserole can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated; just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if baked cold.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated covered in the oven or microwave.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
