Creamy Angel Chicken Rice Casserole -

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In the realm of comforting dinners, few dishes rival the creamy richness of Creamy Angel Chicken Rice Casserole. This easy-to-make, one-dish meal combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a decadent creamy sauce, creating an enticing dinner option that the whole family will adore. Perfect for weeknight meals or delicious leftovers, this casserole will undoubtedly become a staple in your household.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

There are countless reasons to fall in love with this Creamy Angel Chicken Rice Casserole. Firstly, it is incredibly simple to prepare, taking only 10 minutes of active prep time and just 25 minutes in the oven. Secondly, with its creamy cheese sauce and savory chicken, it satisfies all the taste buds—it’s rich, comforting, and indulgent without being overly complicated. Finally, this dish offers the flexibility of using leftover chicken and rice, making it a great way to minimize waste and save time in the kitchen. It’s a guilt-free indulgence that’s sure to impress your loved ones.

Ingredients

Below is a comprehensive list of the ingredients you’ll need to make this mouthwatering casserole. Fresh ingredients lead to the best flavor, and you’ll see just how easy it is to assemble everything for a delightful family dinner.

3 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded
3 cups cooked rice
½ cup butter, cubed
8 oz cream cheese, cubed
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 packet (0.7 oz) Italian dressing mix
1 cup chicken broth
2 cups shredded Colby Jack cheese
Salt & pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Directions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Begin by lightly spraying a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray. This ensures that your casserole doesn’t stick to the dish and makes for an effortless clean-up.

Step 2: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the cubed butter and cream cheese. Microwave the mixture for about 30 seconds, then whisk it together until smooth and creamy. This will form the base of your sauce.

Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cooked rice, the cream cheese and butter mixture, cream of chicken soup, minced garlic, Italian dressing mix, chicken broth, half of the shredded Colby Jack cheese, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything together until well combined. Ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed, allowing for a harmonious blend of flavors.

Step 4: Transfer the combined mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Top with the remaining Colby Jack cheese for that irresistible cheesy layer.

Step 5: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until bubbly and heated through. After removing from the oven, let the dish rest for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to settle and cool slightly before serving.

Step 6: Before serving, garnish your casserole with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Slice into portions and enjoy this delightful dish with your family!

FAQs

Can I use uncooked rice instead of cooked rice in this recipe?

For this specific recipe, cooked rice is necessary for the dish to come together correctly in the allotted cooking time. If you want to use uncooked rice, consider adjusting the liquid amount and cooking time accordingly.

Can I substitute cream cheese with another type of cheese?

While cream cheese adds a unique creaminess to the sauce, you can experiment with alternatives like sour cream or ricotta. However, the texture and taste may differ slightly from the original recipe.

How can I make this dish healthier?

To make the casserole healthier, consider using lean chicken breast, low-sodium soup, and incorporating additional vegetables like spinach or broccoli, which you can mix into the chicken and rice mix.

Can this casserole be made ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to adjust baking time if you’re baking it straight from the fridge.

What side dishes pair well with this casserole?

This casserole is hearty on its own, but if you’re looking to round out the meal, consider serving it with a simple salad or some steamed vegetables for a well-balanced dinner.

Conclusion

The Creamy Angel Chicken Rice Casserole is a delightful and straightforward dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to the dinner table. With the perfect blend of creamy cheese, nutritious chicken, and fluffy rice, it’s a winner for any night of the week. Whether you’re cooking for your family or just for yourself, this casserole recipe will surely please everyone and become a cherished part of your recipe repertoire. Enjoy every delectable bite!

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