If you’ve ever wished for a dish that combines comforting creamy goodness with the nostalgic flavors of a classic pantry favorite, then you are going to fall head over heels for the Angel Chicken Rice-a-Roni Casserole Recipe. This casserole is the perfect marriage of tender chicken, cheesy warmth, and that signature Rice-A-Roni flavor, all baked to bubbly perfection. It’s one of those recipes you’ll want to make on repeat, especially when you need a hassle-free, crowd-pleasing dinner that feels like a big hug on a plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple, yet essential ingredients is the first step toward creating a casserole that’s both comforting and packed with flavor. Each element plays a crucial role, from the creamy base that binds everything together to the luscious cheese that creates that irresistible golden crust.
- Chicken flavor Rice-A-Roni box: The star grain that brings a subtle, savory backbone with its perfectly toasted rice and pasta mix.
- Unsalted Cream of Chicken Soup (10.5 oz): Adds luscious creaminess and deep chicken flavor without overpowering.
- Sour cream (½ cup): Infuses the casserole with tang and a silky texture that keeps every bite moist and inviting.
- Cream cheese (4 oz, room temperature): Boosts creaminess and richness, making the filling decadently smooth.
- Good Seasons Italian dressing mix (0.7 oz): Packs in vibrant herb and spice notes that lift the entire dish.
- Butter (2 Tbsp, softened): Helps meld flavors while enhancing richness and mouthfeel.
- Cooked chopped chicken (4 cups): Provides a hearty protein punch—rotisserie chicken is an easy, flavor-packed shortcut.
- Shredded Colby Jack cheese (2 cups, divided): Melts beautifully to create a gooey, cheesy finish with a mild, creamy bite.
How to Make Angel Chicken Rice-a-Roni Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This step is key to ensuring your casserole bakes evenly and develops that lovely golden top without rushing. While the oven heats, you can dive right into preparing the Rice-A-Roni to lay down the perfect toasted rice foundation.
Step 2: Cook the Rice-A-Roni
Follow the package directions carefully to cook the chicken flavor Rice-A-Roni. Its toasty, seasoned rice and vermicelli noodles are the perfect canvas for all the creaminess and chicken goodness coming next. When the rice is tender and fragrant, it’s ready to join the rest of the ingredients.
Step 3: Mix the Creamy Chicken Mixture
In a large bowl, blend the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, cream cheese, Italian dressing mix, and softened butter until smooth and inviting. This creamy blend will infuse every bite with rich and tangy flavors. Next, gently fold in the shredded chicken, cooked Rice-A-Roni, and half a cup of shredded Colby Jack cheese. Season lightly with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking — this is where your personal touch shines.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure easy serving and cleanup. Spread the rice and chicken mixture evenly in the pan, and sprinkle the remaining cheese evenly over the top. Pop it in the oven uncovered and bake for 30 minutes until the casserole is heated through, bubbling around the edges, and topped with a beautifully melted, golden cheese crust.
How to Serve Angel Chicken Rice-a-Roni Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or green onions over the top just before serving adds a burst of fresh color and a mild bite that balances the richness perfectly. For an extra layer of texture, toasted breadcrumbs or crushed crackers can be sprinkled on before baking to create a delightful crisp topping.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with fresh, light sides to balance all that creamy goodness. Consider a crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette, roasted seasonal vegetables, or even a simple sauerkraut to bring brightness and contrast. Each side helps turn the meal into a complete and satisfying experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For a family-style dinner, serve the casserole straight from the pan, letting everyone scoop their favorite portions. If you want to get fancy for guests, try plating individual portions with a colorful vegetable medley on the side, garnished with herbs and a wedge of lemon. It’s an easy way to elevate this cozy meal into something a little more special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Angel Chicken Rice-a-Roni Casserole Recipe tastes fantastic as leftovers. Store any uneaten casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld beautifully over time, making for an easy, ready-to-reheat dinner the next day.
Freezing
If you want to keep this comfort food on hand, this casserole freezes exceptionally well. Cool it completely, then wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil or place it into a freezer-safe container. Frozen casseroles can last up to 3 months without losing their signature flavor and texture.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw the casserole overnight in the fridge if frozen, then bake uncovered at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until warmed through, about 20 to 25 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for quicker reheating, but baking helps preserve the melty cheese topping and avoid sogginess.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese in this casserole?
Absolutely! While Colby Jack melts beautifully and adds mild flavor, you can experiment with mozzarella, cheddar, or even a mix of cheeses to suit your taste. Just keep in mind the melting qualities and flavor profiles to maintain that perfect creamy and cheesy texture.
Is rotisserie chicken the best choice?
Rotisserie chicken is a super convenient option that adds both flavor and juiciness without extra effort, but cooked chicken breasts or thighs shredded at home will work just as well. Just make sure you have about 4 cups of cooked, chopped chicken for the right balance.
Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
You can! Simply substitute the chicken with cooked mushrooms, tofu, or your favorite plant-based protein, and use vegetable broth for the Rice-A-Roni if available. The creamy base and Italian dressing mix keep the flavors robust even without meat.
Is it okay to use regular cream cheese or reduced fat?
Regular cream cheese provides the best creamy texture and flavor, but reduced-fat versions can be used if you want to lighten the dish. Just expect a slightly less rich and creamy result, which is still tasty and satisfying.
Can I double this recipe for a larger crowd?
Definitely. This Angel Chicken Rice-a-Roni Casserole Recipe scales up nicely. Just use a larger baking dish and adjust your baking time as needed, usually increasing it by 10 to 15 minutes until heated through and bubbly on top.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly comforting and satisfying about the Angel Chicken Rice-a-Roni Casserole Recipe that just feels like home in every bite. It’s the kind of dinner that brings people together, whether for a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend gathering. Give it a try—you might just discover your new go-to dish that’s quick to prepare, delightful to eat, and a breeze to customize.
Print
Angel Chicken Rice-a-Roni Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A comforting and creamy casserole combining savory chicken, cheesy rice, and a flavorful blend of cream cheese and sour cream, topped with melted colby jack cheese, perfect for an easy family dinner.
Ingredients
Rice and Chicken Mix
- 1 box chicken flavor Rice-A-Roni (plus ingredients called for on the box)
- 4 cups cooked chopped chicken (or 1 whole rotisserie chicken)
Creamy Sauce
- 1 (10.5-oz) can unsalted cream of chicken soup
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ (8-oz) package cream cheese, room temperature (4-oz)
- 1 (0.7-oz) Good Seasons Italian dressing mix
- 2 Tbsp butter, softened
Cheese Topping
- 2 cups shredded colby jack cheese, divided
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350º F to get it ready for baking the casserole.
- Prepare Rice-A-Roni: Cook the Rice-A-Roni according to the package directions, making sure it’s fluffy and flavorful.
- Mix Sauce and Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the unsalted cream of chicken soup, sour cream, room temperature cream cheese, Italian dressing mix, and softened butter. Stir until smooth. Add the cooked chopped chicken, the prepared rice, and ½ cup of shredded colby jack cheese. Mix everything together thoroughly. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Assemble Casserole: Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish and spread the rice mixture evenly inside. Sprinkle the remaining 1½ cups of shredded colby jack cheese on top.
- Bake: Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through.
Notes
- Using a rotisserie chicken saves time and adds flavor.
- Ensure cream cheese is softened to blend smoothly with other ingredients.
- Feel free to substitute colby jack cheese with cheddar or a cheese blend of your choice.
- Serve with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven.
