Angel Chicken Rice is a comforting and easy dish that combines tender chicken, creamy rice, and a rich, flavorful sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special family gatherings, this recipe is both hearty and satisfying. It’s a one-dish meal that brings together simple ingredients and flavors that everyone will love. With its creamy texture, cheesy goodness, and savory seasonings, Angel Chicken Rice is the ultimate comfort food. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a cozy meal with your loved ones, this recipe is sure to please.

This dish features cooked chicken and rice, which are combined with a creamy sauce made from cream cheese, butter, and cream of chicken soup. The addition of Italian dressing mix brings a burst of flavor, while the shredded Colby Jack cheese creates a deliciously cheesy topping. Fresh parsley adds a vibrant touch for garnish, making the dish as visually appealing as it is tasty. Ready in no time, Angel Chicken Rice is the perfect combination of flavors for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Angel Chicken Rice is a fantastic choice for those who love comforting, creamy dishes. This recipe is not only delicious but also quick and easy to prepare. With simple ingredients, you can create a rich and satisfying meal that the whole family will enjoy. The combination of tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a savory, cheesy sauce makes it a go-to for busy weeknights or even potlucks. Plus, it’s versatile enough to be adjusted to suit your personal preferences or dietary needs.

This dish is perfect for anyone who enjoys comfort food that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor. Whether you’re looking for a filling dinner, a comforting meal to share with friends, or a crowd-pleaser at your next family gathering, Angel Chicken Rice checks all the boxes.

Ingredients

Cooked chicken, diced or shredded
Cooked rice
Butter, room temperature and cubed
Cream cheese, room temperature and cubed
Cream of chicken soup
Garlic, minced
Italian dressing mix
Chicken stock
Shredded Colby Jack cheese, divided use
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Variations

Angel Chicken Rice is a versatile recipe that can be customized to fit different tastes and preferences. Here are a few variations you can try:

Use different cheeses: Swap the Colby Jack cheese for mozzarella, cheddar, or a blend of your favorite cheeses for a different flavor profile.
Add vegetables: Include some vegetables such as peas, carrots, or bell peppers for added color and texture.
Spice it up: For a little heat, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the creamy sauce.
Make it healthier: Use low-fat cream cheese and cream of chicken soup for a lighter version of this dish.
Switch the protein: If you prefer, you can use turkey, ham, or even ground beef instead of chicken for a different twist on the classic recipe.

How to Make Angel Chicken Rice

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Rice

Start by cooking the chicken and rice. If you’re using leftover chicken, dice or shred it into bite-sized pieces. Cook the rice according to package instructions or use leftover rice from a previous meal.

Step 2: Combine Creamy Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the butter, cream cheese, and cream of chicken soup. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well-blended.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Seasonings

Add the minced garlic, Italian dressing mix, chicken stock, and salt and pepper to the creamy mixture. Stir to combine all the ingredients until they form a thick, creamy sauce.

Step 4: Mix Chicken, Rice, and Sauce

Add the cooked chicken and rice to the creamy mixture. Stir everything together until the chicken and rice are evenly coated with the sauce.

Step 5: Add Cheese

Stir in one cup of shredded Colby Jack cheese into the mixture. Once combined, transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish.

Step 6: Bake

Top the casserole with the remaining shredded cheese and bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley for garnish. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips for Making the Recipe

Use leftover chicken and rice: This is a great way to repurpose leftovers and save time in the kitchen.
Adjust the creaminess: If you want the dish to be even creamier, you can add a bit more cream cheese or butter.
Ensure even seasoning: Taste the mixture before baking to ensure the salt, pepper, and garlic are balanced.
Use a larger baking dish if needed: If you’re doubling the recipe, be sure to use a larger baking dish to accommodate the increased amount of ingredients.
Don’t skip the cheese: The cheese not only adds flavor but also helps to bind the casserole together, making it extra satisfying.

How to Serve

Angel Chicken Rice is best served as a main dish. Pair it with a fresh side salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal. It also pairs well with crusty bread or garlic bread to help soak up the creamy sauce. For a complete family meal, serve it alongside a light soup or some fruit for dessert.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, allow the casserole to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

This dish can be frozen for later use. To freeze, let the casserole cool completely, then wrap it tightly with plastic wrap or foil and store it in a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating

To reheat, simply place the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quicker option.

FAQs

1. Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe?

Yes, pre-cooked chicken works great in this recipe, especially if you have leftovers. It saves time and makes the recipe even easier to prepare.

2. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, feel free to swap Colby Jack cheese for your favorite cheese. Cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend of cheeses will also work well.

3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dish up to the baking stage, then refrigerate it overnight. Bake it when you’re ready to serve.

4. Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?

You can use dairy-free butter and cream cheese alternatives, as well as non-dairy cheese, to make this recipe dairy-free.

5. Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can cook this in a slow cooker. Combine all the ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 3-4 hours or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

6. How do I make this spicier?

If you like spice, add some red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the sauce mixture for an extra kick.

7. Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes, feel free to add vegetables like peas, carrots, or bell peppers to make it more colorful and nutritious.

8. Can I use white rice instead of brown rice?

Yes, you can use either white or brown rice for this recipe, depending on your preference.

9. Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, this recipe freezes well. Just ensure it’s properly wrapped and stored in a freezer-safe container.

10. How long will the leftovers last?

Leftovers will last for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator or 3 months in the freezer.

Conclusion

Angel Chicken Rice is a simple, comforting dish that is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. With its creamy texture, cheesy goodness, and savory flavors, it’s the perfect meal for busy nights, potlucks, or family gatherings. Whether you make it ahead of time, serve it fresh, or freeze it for later, this recipe is as versatile as it is delicious. With a few simple ingredients, you can enjoy a hearty, satisfying meal that everyone will love.