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This Creamy Angel Chicken and Rice Casserole is cheesy, rich, and irresistibly comforting—the kind of meal that makes you want seconds (or thirds!). Tender shredded chicken, fluffy rice, and a creamy, cheesy sauce come together in this one-pan dish, making it perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, and meal prepping.
The best part? It’s completely customizable! You can add veggies, swap proteins, or play around with different cheeses to suit your taste. Whether you're feeding a hungry family or making a dish ahead for later, this easy, satisfying casserole will be a go-to in your kitchen!
💡 Pro Tip: This casserole tastes even better the next day, making it a perfect make-ahead meal!
Essential Ingredients for Creamy Angel Chicken & Rice Casserole
- Cooked Chicken (3 cups, diced or shredded): Rotisserie chicken works great!
- Cooked Rice (3 cups): White, brown, or wild rice all work well.
- Butter (½ cup, cubed & softened): Adds richness and flavor.
- Cream Cheese (8 oz, cubed & softened): For silky, creamy texture.
- Cream of Chicken Soup (10.5 oz can): The base for the sauce’s thickness and depth.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Adds bold, savory notes.
- Italian Dressing Mix (0.7 oz packet, Good Seasons recommended): Infuses the dish with herbs and spices.
- Chicken Stock (1 cup): Helps thin the sauce and add extra flavor.
- Shredded Colby Jack Cheese (2 cups, divided): For ultimate cheesiness!
- Salt & Black Pepper (to taste): Enhances all the flavors.
- Fresh Parsley (optional, for garnish): Adds a pop of color and freshness.
💡 Pro Tip: For extra creamy sauce, use full-fat cream cheese!
Step-by-Step Instructions for the Best Chicken & Rice Casserole
- Step 1: Prep & Preheat
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13” baking dish with nonstick spray.
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- Step 2: Make the Creamy Sauce
- In a microwave-safe bowl, soften butter and cream cheese for 20-30 seconds.
- Whisk together until smooth.
- Stir in cream of chicken soup, garlic, Italian dressing mix, and chicken stock.
- Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked chicken, cooked rice, and ½ of the shredded cheese.
- Pour the creamy sauce over the mixture and stir until fully combined.
- Transfer to the prepared casserole dish, spreading evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top for a golden, cheesy crust.
- Step 4: Bake & Serve
- Cover with foil and bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese melts.
- Remove foil and bake for another 5-10 minutes to create a golden, crispy topping.
- Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley, if using.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
- 🥗 Fresh Green Salad: A simple vinaigrette-based salad balances the richness.
- 🥦 Roasted Vegetables: Broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts add nutrients and crunch.
- 🥖 Crusty Bread: Perfect for scooping up every bit of creamy sauce.
- 🍷 Wine Pairing: A crisp Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc complements the creamy sauce.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
- ✅ Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- ✅ Freeze: Assemble the casserole, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months.
- 🔥 Reheat:
- Oven: Cover with foil and bake at 350°F for 20 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring occasionally.
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Recipe Variations & Customizations
- 🔥 Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes, jalapeños, or cayenne for extra heat.
- 🧀 Different Cheese Options: Swap Colby Jack for cheddar, gouda, or Monterey Jack.
- 🥦 Loaded Veggie Casserole: Stir in spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for more nutrients.
- 🍗 Protein Swap: Use turkey, ham, or tofu instead of chicken.
- 🌿 Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free cream soup & dressing mix.
FAQs About This Casserole
- Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time? Yes! Assemble it up to 24 hours in advance, cover, and store in the fridge until ready to bake.
- Can I Use Uncooked Rice? No, use fully cooked rice for the best texture. Uncooked rice absorbs too much liquid and won’t cook properly.
- What Can I Use Instead of Italian Dressing Mix? Try a homemade mix of:
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp oregano
- ½ tsp basil
- Pinch of salt & pepper
- Can I Use Rotisserie Chicken? Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken saves time and adds extra flavor.
Final Thoughts: The Best Cheesy Chicken & Rice Casserole!
This Creamy Angel Chicken and Rice Casserole is rich, comforting, and incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal, meal-prep friendly dinner, or a freezer-friendly casserole, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
🔥 Try it tonight and enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite! 🥘✨
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
- Yes! Assemble it in advance and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
- → Can I use rotisserie chicken?
- Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken adds great flavor and saves time.
- → What can I use instead of Colby Jack cheese?
- Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend of both work well in this recipe.
- → How do I store leftovers?
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
- → Can I freeze this casserole?
- Yes! Let it cool completely, then wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw before reheating.