Looking for a comforting and satisfying meal to feed the whole family? This Angel Chicken Rice Casserole combines creamy, cheesy goodness with tender chicken and flavorful rice, all baked to golden perfection. Whether you’re whipping it up for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this dish will quickly become a favorite in your home!
Jump to RecipeWhy You’ll Love This Recipe
- Creamy & Cheesy: With cream cheese, Colby Jack, and butter, this casserole is the ultimate comfort food.
- Flavor-Packed: The addition of Italian dressing mix, garlic, and chicken stock gives this dish a savory, rich flavor.
- Perfect for Leftover Chicken: Got leftover cooked chicken? This recipe is the perfect way to turn it into a delicious meal!
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 3 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded – Use rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken you have on hand.
- 3 cups cooked rice – Perfectly fluffy rice helps balance the creamy texture of the casserole.
- ½ cup butter, room temperature and cubed – Adds richness and flavor.
- 8 ounces cream cheese, room temperature and cubed – For that velvety smooth, creamy base.
- 10.5 ounces cream of chicken soup – Adds depth and creaminess to the dish.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic brings a delicious aroma and flavor.
- 0.7 ounce Italian dressing mix (I used Good Seasons) – The secret ingredient that gives this casserole a unique, zesty kick.
- 1 cup chicken stock – Helps keep the casserole moist and flavorful.
- 2 cups shredded Colby Jack cheese, divided – Melted, cheesy goodness inside and on top of the casserole.
- Salt and pepper, to taste – For seasoning to perfection.
- Fresh parsley, for garnish – A pop of color and freshness to finish the dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), and generously spray a 9×13” casserole dish with cooking spray. This will ensure that your casserole doesn’t stick, making it easy to serve and clean up.
2. Soften the Butter and Cream Cheese
In a microwave-safe bowl, soften the cream cheese and butter by microwaving them for 20-30 seconds. Afterward, whisk until smooth and creamy. This step ensures that your casserole has a smooth, luscious texture.
3. Mix Everything Together
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, rice, softened butter and cream cheese mixture, cream of chicken soup, garlic, Italian dressing mix, chicken stock, half of the shredded cheese, and salt and pepper. Stir well to ensure everything is evenly incorporated.
4. Transfer to Casserole Dish
Pour the chicken and rice mixture into your prepared 9×13” casserole dish, spreading it out evenly. This will ensure that the casserole cooks uniformly.
5. Top with Cheese
Sprinkle the remaining shredded Colby Jack cheese evenly over the top. This cheesy topping will melt beautifully in the oven, creating a golden, bubbly finish.
6. Bake the Casserole
Cover the casserole dish with foil and bake in your preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and the casserole is bubbling hot. If you like your cheese a little extra golden, you can remove the foil in the last few minutes of baking.
7. Cool and Garnish
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before serving. This helps the casserole set and makes it easier to serve. Garnish with fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness, and dig in!
Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your Angel Chicken Rice Casserole hot, and enjoy this cozy, comforting meal with family and friends. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or as a comforting dish for a gathering. Pair it with a side salad or some roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Tips for Making the Best Angel Chicken Rice Casserole
- Use Leftover Chicken: This dish is perfect for using up leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken you have in the fridge.
- Switch Up the Cheese: If you don’t have Colby Jack on hand, feel free to use cheddar, mozzarella, or even a Mexican blend for a different cheesy twist.
- Make Ahead: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, just pop it in the oven and enjoy!
Why This Recipe is Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you’re looking for an easy dinner option or preparing a comforting dish for a gathering, this Angel Chicken Rice Casserole is sure to please. It’s creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor, making it the ultimate comfort food. Plus, it’s super versatile—make it your own by swapping out ingredients or adjusting seasonings to suit your taste!
Angel Chicken Rice
8
servings10
minutes25
minutes548
kcal35
minutesThis flavorful casserole is packed with chicken, rice, cheese, and a hint of Italian dressing. The perfect combination of flavors and textures will leave you craving more. Enjoy this special occasion meal for a satisfying dinner.
Ingredients
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 (I used Good Seasons)
1 cup chicken stock
2 cups shredded Colby Jack cheese, divided use
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish
Directions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees F, and generously spray a 9x13” casserole dish with cooking spray.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, soften the cream cheese and butter in the microwave for 20-30 seconds. Whisk until smooth.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, rice, butter and cream cheese mixture, cream of chicken soup, garlic, Italian dressing mix, chicken stock, half of the shredded cheese, and salt and pepper. Mix well until evenly combined.
- Transfer the chicken and rice mixture into the prepared casserole dish.
- Top with the remaining shredded cheese.
- Cover the dish with foil, and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the casserole is bubbling.
- Remove from oven, and allow the casserole to cool for 5 minutes. Remove foil.
- Garnish with fresh parsley, and enjoy.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes | Servings: 8 servings | Calories: 548 kcal per serving