Cheesy Angel Chicken and Rice is the ultimate comfort food casserole that’s rich, creamy, and irresistibly satisfying. With tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a luscious cheese-infused sauce, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or whenever you need a hearty meal that everyone will love. The ease of preparation, combined with pantry staples and family-friendly flavors, makes this cheesy casserole a go-to favorite in any home kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just getting started, this recipe will quickly become part of your regular dinner rotation.
Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Angel Chicken and Rice
- Ultra creamy texture from butter, cream cheese, and cream of chicken soup
- Cheesy goodness with melty Colby Jack throughout
- Hearty and satisfying with a balanced mix of protein and carbs
- Easy to prepare using cooked chicken and rice
- Perfect for meal prep and freezer-friendly
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 (such as Good Seasons)
- 1 cup chicken stock
- 2 cups shredded Colby Jack cheese, divided use
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Step-by-Step: How to Make Cheesy Angel Chicken and Rice
- Preheat oven to 350°F and generously coat a 9×13-inch casserole dish with cooking spray.
- Soften the dairy base: In a microwave-safe bowl, microwave butter and cream cheese for 20-30 seconds. Whisk until smooth.
- Mix ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, rice, cream cheese-butter mixture, cream of chicken soup, minced garlic, Italian dressing mix, chicken stock, half of the shredded cheese, and season with salt and pepper. Stir until everything is evenly mixed.
- Assemble: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
- Top and bake: Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top, cover with foil, and bake for 20-25 minutes, until hot and bubbly.
- Garnish and serve: Let cool for 5 minutes before uncovering. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Helpful Tips
- Use rotisserie chicken to save time.
- For even creamier texture, add a splash of heavy cream.
- Don’t skip softening the butter and cream cheese – it ensures a smooth sauce.
- Let the casserole sit before serving to thicken and hold together.
Substitutions And Variations
- Cheese options: Substitute Colby Jack with cheddar, mozzarella, or a Mexican blend.
- Meat alternatives: Use turkey or cooked ground chicken.
- Vegetarian version: Replace chicken with sauteed mushrooms or chickpeas.
- Rice swaps: Try brown rice or quinoa for a fiber boost.
- Turn up the heat: Mix in some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to add a spicy kick.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
- Reheat: Microwave individual portions or bake at 350°F until heated through.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 548 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Protein: 26g
- Fat: 38g
- Saturated Fat: 21g
- Cholesterol: 134mg
- Sodium: 984mg
- Calcium: 277mg
- Iron: 2mg
Nutrition is estimated and may vary based on ingredients used.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a crisp green salad or steamed broccoli.
- Serve with garlic bread for an extra indulgent meal.
- Add a fruit salad for a fresh, sweet contrast.
- A side of roasted vegetables rounds out the plate beautifully.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cheesy Angel Chicken and Rice
Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes! Assemble the casserole a day ahead, cover, and refrigerate until ready to bake.
What type of rice works best? White rice is traditional, but long grain or jasmine rice holds up well without becoming mushy.
Is it possible to make this gluten-free? Absolutely. Use gluten-free cream of chicken soup and Italian dressing mix.
Can I use frozen chicken? Yes, just thaw and cook it thoroughly before adding to the casserole.
How do I prevent the casserole from drying out? Cover with foil during baking to lock in moisture, and don’t overbake.
Conclusion
Thank you for joining me in making this rich and creamy Cheesy Angel Chicken and Rice! It’s a dish that brings warmth to the table with its gooey cheese, tender chicken, and perfect rice. Whether you’re feeding your family or bringing comfort to a friend, this casserole delivers both flavor and ease. I hope it becomes one of your go-to recipes, just as it has in my kitchen. Happy cooking, and thank you for being part of this food-loving community!
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Cheesy Angel Chicken and Rice
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
Description
Cheesy Angel Chicken and Rice is a creamy, cheesy casserole made with tender chicken, rice, and a flavorful garlic-cream sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners and potlucks, this comfort food classic is easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
3 cups cooked chicken, 3 cups cooked rice, ½ cup butter, 8 oz cream cheese, 10.5 oz cream of chicken soup, 3 cloves garlic, 0.7 oz Italian dressing mix, 1 cup chicken stock, 2 cups shredded Colby Jack cheese, salt and pepper, fresh parsley
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F and generously coat a 9×13-inch casserole dish with cooking spray.
- Soften the dairy base: In a microwave-safe bowl, microwave butter and cream cheese for 20-30 seconds. Whisk until smooth.
- Mix ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, rice, cream cheese-butter mixture, cream of chicken soup, minced garlic, Italian dressing mix, chicken stock, half of the shredded cheese, and season with salt and pepper. Stir until everything is evenly mixed.
- Assemble: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
- Top and bake: Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top, cover with foil, and bake for 20-25 minutes, until hot and bubbly.
- Garnish and serve: Let cool for 5 minutes before uncovering. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Notes
Let cool before refrigerating. Add crushed crackers or extra cheese for topping. Garnish with parsley or green onions.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 548
- Sugar: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Protein: 26g
