Heavenly Angel Chicken Rice Casserole Recipe for Cozy Nights

Creamy angel chicken rice casserole brings comfort food to a whole new level of deliciousness.

Tender chicken pieces nestle perfectly among fluffy rice grains.

Mild cheese and mushroom sauce create a rich, velvety texture that melts in you mouth.

Weeknight dinners just got way more exciting with this simple yet satisfying dish.

Minimal ingredients combine to deliver maximum flavor without complicated cooking techniques.

Layers of goodness promise a meal everyone will request again and again.

You won’t believe how quickly this casserole comes together in one pan.

Angel Chicken Rice Casserole Essentials

• Craft with Ease: Requires minimal cooking skills, perfect for beginners or busy home cooks seeking a simple yet delicious meal.
• One-Dish Wonder: Combines protein, grains, and cheese in a single pan, reducing cleanup and making dinner preparation a breeze.
• Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: Delivers rich, creamy flavors that appeal to both kids and adults, making it an ideal family dinner option.
• Versatile Meal Solution: Adaptable for various occasions like weeknight dinners, potlucks, or casual gatherings with friends and family.

Ingredients for Angel Chicken Rice Casserole

• Chicken: Tender and cooked protein that forms the main body of the casserole.
• Chicken Stock: Provides rich flavor and moisture to the dish.

• Butter, Cream Cheese: Adds creamy texture and enhances the overall richness of the casserole.
• Colby Jack Cheese: Provides melty topping and additional flavor complexity.

• Cream of Chicken Soup, Italian Dressing Mix: Adds depth of flavor and helps bind the casserole ingredients.
• Garlic: Introduces aromatic and savory notes to the dish.
• Salt, Pepper: Seasonings that balance and elevate the overall taste.

• Rice: Serves as the foundational starch component of the casserole.

• Fresh Parsley: Provides a fresh garnish and light herbal finish.
• Non-Stick Cooking Spray: Ensures easy removal and prevents sticking.
• Aluminum Foil: Used for covering during baking to control moisture and heat.

Preparation Guide for Angel Chicken Rice Casserole

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Baking Vessel

Crank up your oven to 350°F. Grab a 9×13 inch baking dish and give it a generous spray of non-stick cooking spray to prevent any sticky situations.

Step 2: Soften Dairy Delights

Toss butter and cream cheese into a microwave-safe bowl. Zap for 20-30 seconds until they’re soft and pliable.

Whisk them together until smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Mix Casserole Magic

• Cooked chicken
• Cooked rice
• Softened butter-cream cheese blend
• Cream of chicken soup
• Minced garlic
• Italian dressing mix
• Chicken stock
• Half of the Colby Jack cheese

Sprinkle in some salt and pepper.

Stir everything until it’s perfectly blended.

Step 4: Fill the Baking Dish

Pour your chicken and rice mixture into the prepared dish.

Spread it out evenly like you’re creating a delicious landscape.

Step 5: Cheese Crown

Scatter the remaining Colby Jack cheese across the top, creating a golden, melty blanket.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Cover the dish with aluminum foil. Slide it into the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes.

You’re looking for melted cheese and bubbly edges that scream “I’m ready!”

Step 7: Rest and Garnish

Pull the casserole out of the oven. Let it rest for 5 minutes to settle its flavors.

Sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness. Serve hot and watch everyone dive in!

Tips for Angel Chicken Rice Casserole

• Try low-fat cream cheese and reduced-sodium cream of chicken soup for a healthier version of this comforting dish.
• Swap traditional white rice with brown rice or quinoa to boost nutritional value and add a nutty flavor profile.
• Enhance protein content by mixing in additional cooked vegetables like diced bell peppers, spinach, or broccoli florets.
• Ensure chicken is thoroughly cooked and shredded to tender, bite-sized pieces for maximum flavor distribution throughout the casserole.
• Create a gluten-free option by using gluten-free cream of chicken soup and checking ingredients in the Italian dressing mix.

Variations to Try on Angel Chicken Rice Casserole

• Low-Carb Cauliflower Alternative: Replace rice with riced cauliflower for a lower-carbohydrate version that maintains the creamy texture and flavor profile of the original recipe.
• Dairy-Free Adaptation: Swap cream cheese and Colby Jack with dairy-free alternatives like cashew cream cheese and vegan cheese shreds to accommodate lactose-intolerant or dairy-sensitive individuals.
• Mediterranean Herb Variation: Incorporate fresh herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme, and replace Italian dressing mix with Greek seasoning for a Mediterranean-inspired flavor transformation.
• Protein Swap Option: Substitute chicken with diced turkey, shredded pork, or plant-based protein crumbles to create a versatile casserole that suits different protein preferences.

Pairing Ideas for Angel Chicken Rice Casserole

• Opt for a crisp Chardonnay with subtle oak undertones that complements the creamy texture of the casserole, balancing its rich and savory profile.
• Roast bright green asparagus spears with garlic and lemon zest, providing a fresh and light contrast to the hearty chicken and cheese combination.
• Serve warm, crusty garlic bread with a sprinkle of parmesan, offering a crunchy texture that enhances the casserole's creamy consistency.
• Prepare a simple mixed green salad with a tangy vinaigrette dressing, cutting through the richness of the dish and adding a refreshing element to the meal.

Storage Tips for Angel Chicken Rice Casserole

• Pack leftovers in airtight containers within 2 hours of cooking. Seal tightly and store in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Keep the casserole flat to maintain its texture and prevent soggy edges.
• Wrap the casserole securely in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. Label with the date and contents. Freeze for up to 3 months. Keep away from the freezer door to prevent temperature fluctuations.
• Place individual portions on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even warming.

FAQs

• Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute Colby Jack with cheddar, mozzarella, or monterey jack cheese based on your preference or what’s available in your kitchen.

• Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Absolutely! You can prepare this casserole ahead of time, refrigerate it uncooked, and bake it when ready to eat. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before baking.

• Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free cream of chicken soup and check that the Italian dressing mix is gluten-free. Always verify ingredient labels carefully.

Angel Chicken Rice Casserole Recipe

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4.5 from 26 reviews

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Comforting angel chicken rice casserole brings together creamy textures and hearty ingredients for a satisfying meal. Midwestern home cooking shines through with this simple, delicious dish that promises warmth and satisfaction for you.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3 cups chicken (cooked and either diced or shredded)
• 3 cups rice (cooked)
• 2 cups colby jack cheese (divided)
• 1 cup chicken stock
• 1/2 cup butter (cubed and at room temperature)
• 8 oz cream cheese (cubed and at room temperature)
• 10.5 oz cream of chicken soup
• 0.7 oz packet of italian dressing mix (such as good seasons)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• Salt (to taste)
• Pepper (to taste)
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and spray a 9×13 inch casserole dish with non-stick cooking spray to ensure easy serving and prevent sticking.
2. Soften butter and cream cheese in the microwave for 20-30 seconds, whisking until the mixture becomes smooth and well-combined.
3. In a large mixing bowl, blend cooked chicken, rice, softened butter-cream cheese mixture, cream of chicken soup, minced garlic, Italian dressing mix, chicken stock, and half the Colby Jack cheese. Season with salt and pepper to create a harmonious flavor profile.
4. Spread the chicken and rice mixture evenly across the prepared casserole dish, ensuring a uniform layer for consistent cooking.
5. Generously sprinkle the remaining Colby Jack cheese over the top of the casserole, creating a golden, melty surface.
6. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese melts completely and the edges become bubbly and slightly crisp.
7. Remove from the oven and allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes, which helps the ingredients settle and makes serving easier. Garnish with fresh parsley for a vibrant touch and serve while hot.

Notes

• Use room temperature butter and cream cheese for smoother blending and easier mixing without lumps.
• Opt for rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken to save time and add extra flavor depth.
• For a gluten-free version, replace cream of chicken soup with homemade white sauce and use gluten-free Italian seasoning mix.
• Experiment with different cheese varieties like mozzarella or cheddar to customize the casserole’s taste profile and texture.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 510 kcal
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 580 mg
• Fat: 35 g
• Saturated Fat: 18 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
• Trans Fat: 0.5 g
• Carbohydrates: 20 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 32 g
• Cholesterol: 105 mg