Name: Delicious Angel Chicken Rice Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
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

Welcome to my kitchen! Today, I am excited to share with you one of my all-time favorite comfort foods, Angel Chicken Rice. This dish is an incredibly flavorful and creamy casserole that brings together tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a zesty sauce for a heartwarming dinner that the whole family will love. Whether you’re planning a weeknight meal or hosting a family gathering, this Angel Chicken Rice recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

When you think of comfort food, this recipe truly embodies everything comforting and satisfying. The combination of creamy textures and rich flavors creates a dish that feels indulgent yet is easy to prepare. With ingredients like chicken, rice, a delightful cream sauce, and cheese, this dish is not only creamy and delicious but also versatile. It can be customized based on dietary needs, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion.

Easy to prepare with minimal kitchen tools and ingredients, Angel Chicken Rice allows you to enjoy a homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s an all-in-one casserole that takes care of the protein, carbohydrates, and creamy goodness all in one dish. Let’s dive into why you’ll love making this dish!

Why You’ll Love This Angel Chicken Rice

Flavorful and Creamy: The combination of chicken, creamy sauce, and cheese creates a rich flavor that is irresistible.
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore this comforting dish, perfect for family dinners.
Easy to Customize: Adapt the recipe by using different proteins or grains based on your preferences and dietary restrictions.
Meal Prep Friendly: This casserole can be made in advance and stored for quick dinners throughout the week.
A Real Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re hosting a gathering or a cozy night in, this dish will impress your guests.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before cooking, it’s important to set up your kitchen and gather all the necessary ingredients and tools. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C), so it’s ready when you’re done preparing the casserole.

You will need a 9×13” casserole dish that’s generously sprayed with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking. A large mixing bowl will be essential for combining all the ingredients, along with a microwave-safe bowl for softening the cream cheese and butter.

Make sure you have measuring cups, a whisk for blending the mixture, and a spatula for transferring the casserole to the baking dish. Having these tools ready will ensure a smooth cooking process.

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

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

To start, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you prepare your ingredients. It’s essential to have your rice and chicken cooked beforehand. This step saves time and ensures that they’re ready to mix into the creamy base. Make sure everything is chopped, measured, and set aside to streamline your cooking process.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Mixture

Next, take a microwave-safe bowl and add the cubed cream cheese and butter. Microwave on high for 20-30 seconds — this will soften them for easier mixing. Once softened, use a whisk to blend the cream cheese and butter together until the texture is smooth and creamy, resulting in a base for your casserole.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, add the prepared chicken and rice. Pour in the creamy mixture you just made, along with the cream of chicken soup, minced garlic, Italian dressing mix, chicken stock, and half of the shredded Colby Jack cheese. Use a spatula to stir everything together thoroughly, ensuring an even distribution of flavors throughout the mixture.

Step 4: Transfer to Baking Dish

Carefully pour the combined chicken and rice mixture into your prepared casserole dish. Use the spatula to spread the mixture out evenly, ensuring it fills the dish without any gaps. Top the mixture with the remaining shredded cheese, enhancing the creamy and cheesy goodness when baked.

Step 5: Bake

Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake it for 20-25 minutes. This covers prevents drying out the dish. In the final 5 minutes, remove the foil to allow the cheese on top to become golden and bubbly, providing that desirable crust.

Step 6: Serve

Once it’s baked, let the casserole cool for about 5 minutes — this helps the dish settle. Before serving, garnish with freshly chopped parsley to add a pop of color and a fresh taste against the creamy background.

Variations

Protein: Try using turkey instead of chicken for a different flavor profile.
Vegetables: Add sautéed vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli, or peas for added nutrition and color.
Spices: Experiment with different spices, such as paprika or chili powder, for a subtle kick.

Cooking Notes

Make sure your chicken is fully cooked and shredded to ensure it integrates well into the dish.
For a more robust flavor, consider using homemade cream of chicken soup instead of canned.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a side salad for a complete and balanced meal.
Pair with garlic bread to soak up the delicious creamy sauce.

Tips

To save time, use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking your own.
Feel free to make this dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to two days before baking.
If you want a crispy top, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes after baking but watch closely!

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 480 per serving
Protein: 30g
Sodium: 900mg

FAQs

Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! This recipe is perfect for utilizing leftover chicken, making it even quicker to prepare.

Can I substitute the cream of chicken soup?

Yes! You can use a homemade version or swap it for a cream of mushroom soup for a different flavor.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover Angel Chicken Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or under the broiler for best results.

Is there a way to make this dish healthier?

Certainly! Swap out the cream cheese for a lower-fat version and use brown rice instead of white rice for extra fiber.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Angel Chicken Rice is not just another casserole—it’s a comforting dish that brings joy to the dinner table. With its creamy texture, rich flavors, and the ability to satisfy hungry appetites, it’s easy to see why it has become a family favorite. We encourage you to give it a try, share it with friends, and don’t shy away from experimenting with your variations. Your kitchen will soon become a hub for delicious memories, one casserole at a time. Let us know your thoughts in the comments!