Cheesy Angel Chicken (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Main Ingredients

01 - 3 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded
02 - 3 cups cooked rice
03 - ½ cup butter, room temperature and cubed
04 - 8 ounces cream cheese, room temperature and cubed
05 - 10.5 ounces cream of chicken soup
06 - 3 cloves garlic, minced
07 - 0.7 ounce Italian dressing mix (such as Good Seasons)
08 - 1 cup chicken stock
09 - 2 cups shredded Colby Jack cheese, divided
10 - Salt and pepper, to taste
11 - Fresh parsley, for garnish

# Instructions:

01 - Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and generously coat a 9x13-inch casserole dish with cooking spray.
02 - In a microwave-safe bowl, warm the cream cheese and butter for 20-30 seconds until slightly softened. Whisk until smooth.
03 - In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cooked rice, softened butter and cream cheese mixture, cream of chicken soup, minced garlic, Italian dressing mix, chicken stock, half of the shredded cheese, and salt and pepper. Stir well until evenly mixed.
04 - Transfer the mixture to the prepared casserole dish and spread it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese on top.
05 - Cover the casserole dish with foil and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the casserole is bubbling.
06 - Remove from the oven and let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before removing the foil. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

# Notes:

01 - For extra texture, sprinkle crushed crackers, cornflakes, or potato chips on top before baking.
02 - For an even cheesier casserole, add extra shredded cheddar or Parmesan before serving.
03 - Garnish with chopped green onions or fresh herbs for a fresh pop of color and flavor.