Cheesy Angel Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe
If you’re craving a warm, comforting meal that feels like a cozy hug on a plate, this Cheesy Angel Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a luscious blend of tender chicken, creamy cheese, and perfectly cooked rice all baked together into one irresistibly cheesy casserole. Whether it’s a family dinner or a potluck centerpiece, this dish brings together simple ingredients in a way that feels both luxurious and homey. The blend of savory cream cheese, rich chicken soup, and that golden cheese topping makes every bite a delightful celebration of flavors and textures.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Preparing this Cheesy Angel Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe is a breeze thanks to straightforward, everyday ingredients that work magic together. Each item plays a key role, from the creamy richness to the hearty, satisfying textures that will keep everyone coming back for seconds.
- 3 cups cooked chicken: Choose diced or shredded for an even, comforting bite throughout the casserole.
- 3 cups cooked rice: A fluffy base that soaks up all those amazing flavors, creating a rich, hearty meal.
- ½ cup butter, room temperature and cubed: Adds velvety richness that melts beautifully into the mix.
- 8 ounces cream cheese, room temperature and cubed: Brings irresistible creaminess and depth to the dish.
- 10.5 ounces cream of chicken soup: The secret to that classic casserole moisture and savory base.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the casserole with fragrant warmth and a slight zing.
- 0.7 ounce Italian dressing mix: Adds herbs and spices that brighten and balance the richness.
- 1 cup chicken stock: Keeps everything moist, flavorful, and tender.
- 2 cups shredded Colby Jack cheese, divided: One part melts into the stuffing while the rest creates that perfectly golden, gooey topping.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for bringing all the flavors into harmony.
- Fresh parsley, for garnish: Adds a pop of color and a fresh note to finish.
How to Make Cheesy Angel Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Start by setting your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit; this gentle heat will cook your casserole evenly without drying it out. Don’t forget to generously spray your 9×13 inch casserole dish with cooking spray—this keeps those cheesy, creamy layers from sticking and simplifies serving later.
Step 2: Soften Cream Cheese and Butter
Place the cubed cream cheese and butter into a microwave-safe bowl, then soften them gently with a 20-30 second zap in the microwave. Whisk them together until smooth and creamy, creating the luscious base that will coat your chicken and rice mixture.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooked chicken and rice with the softened cream cheese and butter mixture, cream of chicken soup, minced garlic, Italian dressing mix, chicken stock, half the shredded cheese, salt, and pepper. Stir it all together until every bite is evenly seasoned and coated in that dreamy, cheesy sauce.
Step 4: Assemble Casserole
Pour the combined mixture into your prepared casserole dish, smoothing it out so it bakes evenly. This is the moment where everything starts coming together beautifully.
Step 5: Top with Cheese
Sprinkle the remaining shredded Colby Jack cheese on top in an even layer. This will melt down into a golden, bubbly topping that enchants both the eyes and taste buds.
Step 6: Bake Until Bubbling
Cover your dish with foil and pop it into the oven for 20-25 minutes. You want the cheese to melt into a gooey blanket with the casserole gently bubbling underneath—this is when the flavors meld perfectly.
Step 7: Cool and Garnish
After baking, let your casserole rest for about 5 minutes with the foil off. This little pause lets everything set nicely, making it easier to serve. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for color and a refreshing hint that balances the rich casserole.
How to Serve Cheesy Angel Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a classic choice that brings a bright, herbal note and lively green color to contrast the golden cheese. You can also add a light dusting of paprika for a subtle smoky touch or a handful of sliced green onions for extra crunch and zing.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs beautifully with crisp, fresh salads that cut through the richness; think simple arugula with lemon vinaigrette or a crunchy coleslaw. Roasted vegetables like broccoli or green beans also complement the cheesy, creamy texture without overwhelming the dish.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party or family gathering, serve the casserole straight from the dish with vibrant bowls and colorful napkins to make the meal feel extra special. Layer it in individual ramekins for elegant single servings, perfect for impressing guests with ease.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover the casserole tightly with plastic wrap or transfer portions into airtight containers. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days, perfect for next-day lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
You can freeze this Cheesy Angel Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe before baking or after it has cooked. Use freezer-safe containers or wrap the dish well in foil and plastic wrap. It keeps well for up to 2 months, making it a lifesaver for busy days.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw frozen casserole overnight in the refrigerator. Warm it in the oven at 325 degrees Fahrenheit until heated through and bubbly, usually about 20-30 minutes. You can also microwave individual servings for quicker meals.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice in this recipe?
Absolutely! Brown rice adds a nuttier flavor and more fiber, but keep in mind it might need a bit more moisture or a longer cooking time when pre-cooking. Since you use cooked rice in the casserole, just ensure it’s fully tender before assembling.
Is there a substitute for the cream of chicken soup?
You can swap in homemade cream of chicken soup or use cream of mushroom soup for a slightly different but still delicious flavor. Just make sure it’s thick enough to bind the filling nicely.
Can this recipe be made dairy-free?
With a few ingredient swaps, yes! Use dairy-free cream cheese and butter alternatives along with a vegan cheese substitute. The texture will be slightly different but still creamy and tasty.
How can I add more vegetables to this casserole?
Feel free to mix in cooked vegetables like peas, carrots, or spinach when you combine the main ingredients. This boosts nutrition and adds lovely pops of color and flavor.
Is the Italian dressing mix necessary?
The Italian dressing mix is key for seasoning, adding herbs and tanginess that brighten the casserole. If you don’t have it, use a blend of dried Italian herbs, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Angel Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe is one of those comforting dishes that feel like a warm embrace from the inside out. It’s simple to prepare yet packed with layers of creamy, cheesy goodness that will have everyone at your table asking for the recipe. Give it a try and watch it become your new go-to casserole, perfect for busy weeknights and special family dinners alike!
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Cheesy Angel Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
This Cheesy Angel Chicken and Rice casserole is a comforting, creamy, and cheesy baked dish featuring tender cooked chicken, fluffy rice, and a flavorful blend of cream cheese, butter, and Italian seasonings. Perfect for a family meal, it offers a delicious one-dish dinner that is easy to prepare and satisfying.
Ingredients
Main 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 (e.g., Good Seasons)
- 1 cup chicken stock
- 2 cups shredded Colby Jack cheese, divided
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. 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 in a microwave-safe bowl and microwave for 20-30 seconds until softened. Whisk them together until smooth for a creamy base.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cooked rice, 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. Stir well until all ingredients are evenly mixed.
- Assemble Casserole: Transfer the chicken and rice mixture into the prepared casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining shredded Colby Jack cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Bake: Cover the casserole dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese on top has melted and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.
- Cool and Garnish: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. Remove the foil and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
- Serve: Dish out portions and enjoy this warm, cheesy, and comforting chicken and rice casserole with your family or guests.
Notes
- You can use leftover cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Feel free to substitute Colby Jack cheese with mozzarella or cheddar if preferred.
- Adjust salt and pepper to your taste before baking.
- For a gluten-free option, ensure the cream of chicken soup and Italian dressing mix are gluten-free.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
