This Classic Angel Chicken Rice Casserole is a delicious and comforting dish that combines tender chicken, creamy cheese, and perfectly cooked rice. With its rich sauce made from cream cheese, cream of chicken soup, and Italian dressing mix, this casserole is a satisfying meal that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings. It’s also easy to make ahead, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Ingredients for Classic Angel Chicken Rice Casserole
- 3 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded
- 3 cups cooked rice
- ½ cup butter, cubed and softened
- 8 oz cream cheese, cubed and softened
- 10.5 oz can cream of chicken soup
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 0.7 oz packet Italian dressing mix (like Good Seasons)
- 1 cup chicken stock
- 2 cups shredded Colby Jack cheese, divided
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions: How to Make Classic Angel Chicken Rice Casserole
1. Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Prepare the Creamy Sauce
- In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the cream cheese and whisk together until smooth and creamy.
- Stir in the cream of chicken soup, minced garlic, and Italian dressing mix. Whisk until well combined.
- Gradually add the chicken stock, whisking continuously to create a smooth sauce. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutesuntil thickened slightly. Add salt and pepper to taste.
3. Combine the Chicken, Rice, and Sauce
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cooked rice, and half of the shredded Colby Jack cheese.
- Pour the creamy sauce over the chicken and rice mixture, stirring to combine everything thoroughly.
4. Assemble the Casserole
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded Colby Jack cheese over the top.
5. Bake the Casserole
- Cover the casserole with foil and bake for 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese on top is bubbly and golden brown.
6. Garnish and Serve
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Serve hot, and enjoy!
Cook’s Notes and Tips
- Chicken: Use leftover cooked chicken, rotisserie chicken, or poach some chicken breasts for this recipe.
- Rice: You can use white rice, brown rice, or even wild rice, depending on your preference.
- Cheese: Colby Jack cheese works well for its melty texture, but feel free to substitute with cheddar, mozzarella, or a cheese blend.
- Seasoning: Taste the sauce before assembling the casserole and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed, especially if the Italian dressing mix is already quite salty.
Recipe Variations: How to Customize Your Chicken Rice Casserole
Vegetable Add-Ins
- Add vegetables like broccoli, peas, carrots, or mushrooms to the casserole for added texture and nutrition. Stir them in before baking.
Gluten-Free Version
- Make this casserole gluten-free by using a gluten-free cream of chicken soup and Italian dressing mix.
Spicy Version
- For a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or a splash of hot sauce to the sauce before baking.
Keto-Friendly Version
- Replace the rice with cauliflower rice to make this dish keto-friendly. Reduce the amount of chicken stock to prevent the casserole from being too watery when using cauliflower rice.
FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Classic Angel Chicken Rice Casserole
Q1: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole, cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before placing it in the oven.
Q2: Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole either before or after baking. To freeze before baking, assemble the casserole and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.
Q3: Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! Cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend of your favorite cheeses will work well in this recipe. Just make sure it melts smoothly for the best texture.
Q4: What can I serve with this casserole?
This casserole pairs perfectly with a fresh green salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread for a complete meal.
A Creamy, Comforting Meal That Everyone Will Love
This Classic Angel Chicken Rice Casserole is a delicious and satisfying dish that’s perfect for feeding the whole family. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and gooey melted cheese, it’s comfort food at its finest. The ease of preparation makes it ideal for busy weeknights or when you’re looking for a simple yet hearty meal. Customize it with your favorite add-ins or serve it as is for a comforting, classic casserole everyone will enjoy!