If you’re looking for a creamy, comforting dish that’s both simple and satisfying, Angel Chicken Rice is the perfect choice. This dish combines the rich flavors of tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a luscious, cheesy sauce that brings everything together in one easy-to-make casserole. Perfect for a family dinner or a weeknight meal, Angel Chicken Rice is sure to become a household favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Creamy and Comforting

The combination of butter, cream cheese, and cream of chicken soup creates a wonderfully creamy base that perfectly coats the chicken and rice.

2. Quick and Easy

With minimal ingredients and a straightforward method, this dish comes together in no time, making it perfect for busy evenings.

3. One-Pot Meal

This recipe is cooked in one dish, reducing cleanup time and making it even more convenient for families and busy individuals.

4. Customizable

Feel free to add vegetables like peas, carrots, or spinach to the mix for extra flavor and nutrition.

5. Kid-Friendly

With its creamy texture and mild flavor, Angel Chicken Rice is a hit with both kids and adults alike, making it a great family meal.

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
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Variations

Add Vegetables: Try adding vegetables such as peas, carrots, or broccoli for added nutrition and color.
Swap the Cheese: Use cheddar or mozzarella cheese for a different flavor profile.
Use Chicken Thighs: Instead of chicken breast, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for extra tenderness and flavor.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cubed butter, cream cheese, and cream of chicken soup.
Add the minced garlic, Italian dressing mix, and chicken stock. Stir everything together until the mixture is smooth and well combined.

Step 3: Combine the Chicken and Rice

Add the cooked chicken and rice to the sauce mixture. Stir to coat the chicken and rice evenly in the creamy sauce.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Add the Cheese

Fold in 1 cup of shredded Colby Jack cheese, and then transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish.
Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheese over the top of the casserole.

Step 5: Bake

Bake the dish in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the casserole is heated through.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Use Leftover Chicken: This recipe is a great way to use up leftover chicken from a rotisserie or previous meal.
Make It Spicy: If you like a little heat, add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the mixture.
Don’t Overcook: Be careful not to overcook the casserole. Once the cheese is melted and bubbly, it’s ready to be served.

How to Serve

Serve with a Side Salad: A light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette would balance the richness of the casserole.
Pair with Garlic Bread: For an indulgent meal, serve with a side of garlic bread to dip in the creamy sauce.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or in the oven until heated through.

Freezing

You can freeze the casserole before baking. Simply assemble the dish, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 2-3 months. When ready to cook, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then bake as instructed.

Reheating

To reheat, simply microwave individual servings or warm the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of rice?

Yes, you can use brown rice, but keep in mind it will need a longer cooking time and more liquid.

2. Can I substitute the cream cheese?

Yes, you can use sour cream or Greek yogurt as a substitute for cream cheese for a lighter version.

3. Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes, you can add vegetables like peas, spinach, or carrots for extra flavor and nutrition.

4. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time, store it in the fridge, and bake it when you’re ready to serve.

5. What kind of cheese can I use?

Colby Jack is ideal for this recipe, but you can substitute it with cheddar, mozzarella, or a cheese blend.

Conclusion

Angel Chicken Rice is a creamy, comforting dish that’s easy to make and perfect for a cozy dinner. The combination of chicken, rice, and cheese creates a satisfying meal that your whole family will love. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to feed a crowd, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.