Description

This Cheesy Angel Chicken and Rice casserole is a comforting, creamy dish perfect for a quick and satisfying family meal. Loaded with tender cooked chicken, fluffy rice, and a mixture of cream cheese, butter, and cream of chicken soup, it’s baked to perfection with gooey melted Colby Jack cheese on top. Flavored with garlic and Italian dressing mix, it offers a deliciously rich and savory experience that’s easy to prepare in under 35 minutes.

Ingredients

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 (e.g., Good Seasons)
1 cup chicken stock
Salt and pepper to taste

Cheese Topping

2 cups shredded Colby Jack cheese, divided

Garnish

Fresh parsley, for garnish

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Instructions

Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Generously spray a 9×13 inch casserole dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Soften Cream Cheese and Butter: Place the cream cheese and butter cubes in a microwave-safe bowl and microwave for 20-30 seconds until softened. Whisk together until smooth and creamy.
Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cooked rice, the softened cream cheese and butter mixture, cream of chicken soup, minced garlic, Italian dressing mix, chicken stock, half of the shredded Colby Jack cheese, and salt and pepper. Mix thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
Assemble Casserole: Transfer the combined chicken and rice mixture into the prepared casserole dish, spreading it evenly.
Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining shredded Colby Jack cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
Bake: Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.
Cool and Garnish: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes. Remove the foil and garnish the dish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor.
Serve: Dish out portions of the cheesy angel chicken and rice and enjoy this comforting, creamy casserole!

Notes

You can use any cooked chicken you have on hand, such as rotisserie or leftover baked chicken.
If you prefer a spicier flavor, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the mixture.
Feel free to substitute Colby Jack with mozzarella or cheddar cheese according to your preference.
For a gluten-free version, ensure the cream of chicken soup and Italian dressing mix are gluten-free certified.
Leftovers can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.