There is something incredibly comforting about a warm, cheesy casserole that feels like a big, delicious hug—and the Angel Chicken Rice Casserole Recipe delivers exactly that. This dish effortlessly combines tender cooked chicken, fluffy rice, rich cream cheese, and a savory Italian dressing twist, all baked to bubbly perfection. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or looking for an easy weeknight meal that feels special, this casserole brings that perfect homey vibe with a delightful balance of flavors and textures that keep everyone coming back for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The best part about this casserole is how straightforward the ingredients are, yet each one plays a vital role in creating a rich, creamy, and satisfying dish. From the silky cream cheese that adds indulgence to the Italian dressing mix that infuses a burst of herbaceous flavor, these simple ingredients come together beautifully.
- 3 cups cooked chicken: Use diced or shredded chicken to add hearty protein and a tender bite to the casserole.
- 3 cups cooked rice: Fluffy and neutral, it forms the comforting base that soaks up all the creamy goodness.
- ½ cup unsalted butter, cubed and at room temperature: Adds rich moisture and helps blend the cream cheese smoothly.
- 8 ounces cream cheese, cubed and at room temperature: The star of creaminess that makes this casserole so dreamy.
- 10.5 ounces cream of chicken soup: Brings savory depth and binds the ingredients together perfectly.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a wonderful aromatic kick that brightens up the dish.
- 0.7-ounce packet Italian dressing mix: Offers a punch of herbs and spices for that signature flavor punch.
- 1 cup chicken stock: Enhances moisture and layers in a subtle, savory complexity.
- 2 cups shredded Colby Jack cheese, divided: Half mixed in for creaminess, half sprinkled on top for that golden melt.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste: Essential seasoning to balance and highlight all the flavors.
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish: Adds a fresh, vibrant finish and a pop of color.
How to Make Angel Chicken Rice Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Dish
Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish to make sure nothing sticks and cleanup stays easy. A well-prepped dish sets the stage for this creamy masterpiece.
Step 2: Soften the Butter and Cream Cheese
Pop the butter and cream cheese into a microwave-safe bowl and heat them for about 20-30 seconds. This simple step softens these ingredients just enough so you can whisk them into a smooth, dreamy base without lumps—trust me, this step makes the texture absolutely divine.
Step 3: Mix All Ingredients Together
In a large bowl, toss together the cooked chicken, cooked rice, and that luscious butter and cream cheese mixture. Add the cream of chicken soup, minced garlic, Italian dressing mix, chicken stock, and half of the shredded Colby Jack cheese. Season everything generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Stir until everything is well combined and the mixture looks creamy and inviting.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Spread this flavorful mixture evenly into your prepared casserole dish. Smooth the top so it bakes uniformly—it’s ready for that cheesy crown!
Step 5: Top with Remaining Cheese
Sprinkle the rest of the shredded Colby Jack cheese over the top. This cheesy layer will melt into a golden, bubbly crust that’s impossible to resist.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Cover the casserole with foil and bake for 20-25 minutes. You want to see that cheese fully melted and the casserole bubbling along the edges, signaling it’s perfectly cooked and full of warmth and flavor.
Step 7: Rest Before Serving
Once out of the oven, let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes. This pause helps all the cheese set just right and makes serving easier. Finish it off with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a touch of color and freshness.
How to Serve Angel Chicken Rice Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A scatter of freshly chopped parsley adds a lovely green pop and a subtle herbaceous contrast to the creamy, cheesy casserole. For a bit of extra zing, a light sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes or thinly sliced green onions can also add freshness and a mild kick.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs beautifully with crisp, simple sides that balance its richness. Think a fresh garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette, roasted or steamed seasonal veggies like broccoli or green beans, or even a light cucumber and tomato salad to add brightness to the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to dress it up for a cozy dinner party, serve scoops of the casserole with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a side of crusty artisan bread to soak up every bit. Individual ramekins baked with the same mixture can make for charming, personalized servings. Garnishing with freshly grated Parmesan or a squeeze of lemon juice can also elevate the flavors beautifully.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftovers into airtight containers and store them in the refrigerator. This casserole stays delicious for up to 3-4 days, making it perfect for next-day lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
The Angel Chicken Rice Casserole Recipe freezes wonderfully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or wrap the casserole dish tightly with foil and plastic wrap. It can keep in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and bubbly again, usually about 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave individual servings for a quicker fix, but the oven method helps retain that lovely casserole texture and melted cheese topping.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese in the Angel Chicken Rice Casserole Recipe?
Absolutely! While Colby Jack cheese offers great meltability and flavor, feel free to experiment with cheddar, mozzarella, or even a combination of cheeses to suit your taste preferences.
Is it necessary to use the Italian dressing mix?
The Italian dressing mix provides a wonderful herb and spice blend that really lifts the casserole. If you don’t have it on hand, you can substitute with Italian seasoning and a bit of garlic powder, onion powder, and dried parsley.
Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
You can! Simply replace the cooked chicken with cooked mushrooms, beans, or a medley of your favorite vegetables. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock and a cream of mushroom soup in place of the cream of chicken soup.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Try swapping out cream cheese and butter for dairy-free alternatives, use a dairy-free cream soup, and opt for a plant-based cheese. The flavor profile will shift slightly, but it’s still delicious and cozy.
What is the best way to shred cooked chicken for this casserole?
The easiest way is to use two forks to pull apart warm, cooked chicken breasts or thighs into thin strips. You can also pulse cooked chicken in a food processor briefly, just be careful not to turn it into a paste.
Final Thoughts
This Angel Chicken Rice Casserole Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like it was made with a whole lot of love—even on your busiest days. It’s easy, satisfying, and packed with flavors that comfort the soul. Give it a try, and I promise it will become a treasured recipe in your kitchen rotation, perfect for quick dinners, family meals, or anytime you want pure, cheesy happiness on a plate.
Print
Angel Chicken Rice Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This comforting Angel Chicken Rice Casserole combines tender cooked chicken, fluffy rice, and a creamy blend of butter, cream cheese, and cream of chicken soup. Enhanced with garlic and Italian dressing seasoning, then topped with melted Colby Jack cheese, this casserole is a hearty and delicious meal perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
Ingredients
Protein & Dairy
- 3 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded
- ½ cup unsalted butter, cubed and at room temperature
- 8 ounces cream cheese, cubed and at room temperature
- 10.5 ounces cream of chicken soup
- 2 cups shredded Colby Jack cheese, divided
Grains & Liquids
- 3 cups cooked rice
- 1 cup chicken stock
Seasonings & Others
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 0.7-ounce packet Italian dressing mix (e.g., Good Seasons)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish to prevent sticking.
- Soften Butter & Cream Cheese: Place the butter and cream cheese in a microwave-safe bowl and heat for 20-30 seconds until softened. Whisk them together until smooth and creamy to help incorporate them evenly into the casserole mixture.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the cooked chicken, cooked rice, softened butter and cream cheese mixture, cream of chicken soup, minced garlic, Italian dressing mix, chicken stock, and half of the shredded Colby Jack cheese. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Stir all ingredients thoroughly to create a well-blended filling.
- Assemble the Casserole: Spread the combined mixture evenly into the prepared 9×13-inch casserole dish, ensuring a level surface for even cooking.
- Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the remaining shredded Colby Jack cheese evenly across the top of the casserole for a golden, cheesy crust after baking.
- Bake: Cover the casserole dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the casserole is hot and bubbly throughout.
- Rest and Garnish: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes to set. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving to add a fresh and vibrant finish.
Notes
- Using cooked chicken and rice reduces prep time significantly; leftovers work well.
- Room temperature butter and cream cheese blend more smoothly into the mixture for creaminess.
- Italian dressing mix adds a flavorful punch; substitute with Italian seasoning if unavailable.
- Covering with foil during baking helps keep the moisture and prevents cheese from burning.
- For a crispier cheese top, remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for 3-4 days and reheat nicely in the oven or microwave.
