Description
Angel Chicken Rice is a heartwarming casserole that combines creamy textures and savory flavors into a delightful dish perfect for family dinners or gatherings. This recipe brings together tender chicken and fluffy rice enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce made from a blend of cream cheese, butter, and herbs, typically seasoned with an Italian dressing mix for an extra zing.
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 use
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F, and generously spray a 9×13” casserole dish with cooking spray.
In a microwave-safe bowl, soften the cream cheese and butter in the microwave for 20-30 seconds. Whisk until smooth.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, rice, butter and cream cheese mixture, cream of chicken soup, garlic, Italian dressing mix, chicken stock, half of the shredded cheese, and salt and pepper. Mix well until evenly combined.
Transfer the chicken and rice mixture into the prepared casserole dish.
Top with the remaining shredded cheese.
Cover the dish with foil, and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the casserole is bubbling.
Remove from oven, and allow the casserole to cool for 5 minutes. Remove foil.
Garnish with fresh parsley, and enjoy.
Notes
- Chicken: Opt for pre-cooked chicken, like rotisserie chicken, for ease and flavor. It can be either shredded or diced depending on your texture preference.
- Rice: Cook the rice separately to ensure it absorbs the flavors during the baking process without becoming mushy.
- Cream Cheese and Butter: These add richness and depth to the casserole. They should be at room temperature to blend smoothly with the other ingredients.
- Seasonings: Italian dressing mix adds a robust flavor, but you can substitute it with a homemade blend of dried herbs if you prefer less sodium.
- Baking Tips: Cover the casserole with foil during the initial baking to keep it moist. Remove the foil towards the end to allow the cheese on top to crisp up.
- Variations: Feel free to add vegetables like mushrooms, peas, or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor. Switching up the cheeses can also add a new dimension to the dish, with options like mozzarella or Swiss for different melting properties and tastes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 548 kcal