Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) and generously spray a 9x13” casserole dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
In a microwave-safe bowl, soften the cream cheese and butter together in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds. Once softened, whisk them until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cooked rice, 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. Mix all the ingredients together thoroughly until they are evenly combined.
Transfer the chicken and rice mixture into the prepared casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.
Now, top the mixture with the remaining shredded cheese, ensuring all corners are covered for that deliciously cheesy finish.
Cover the dish with foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the casserole is bubbling.
Once it’s done, remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for about 5 minutes. After cooling, remove the foil.
Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve. Enjoy every comforting bite!
What to Serve Cheesy Angel Chicken and Rice Casserole With
This casserole is delightful on its own, but pairing it with a few complementary dishes can elevate your meal! Try serving it with a light side salad topped with your choice of vinaigrette to balance the richness, or some steamed vegetables for a colorful addition. A warm slice of garlic bread will also be a hit, perfect for scooping up every last bit of cheese. For drinks, a chilled glass of lemonade or sweet tea complements the flavors beautifully!
Top Tips for Perfecting Cheesy Angel Chicken and Rice Casserole
Here are some handy tips to ensure your casserole turns out perfectly:
Ingredient Substitutions: If you’re out of cream of chicken soup, you can easily substitute it with cream of mushroom or even a homemade white sauce for a more personalized touch.
Timing Adjustments: If you prefer a golden-brown top, bake uncovered for the last 5-10 minutes of cooking.
Common Mistakes to Avoid: Make sure not to skip softening the cream cheese; otherwise, lumps may form in your sauce. Also, ensure everything is mixed properly to achieve that creamy texture throughout!
Storing and Reheating Tips
Storing leftovers? Cheesy Angel Chicken and Rice Casserole can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s in an airtight container to retain freshness. For longer storage, freeze the casserole for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy again, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven at 350 degrees F until warmed through. For the best texture, cover it with foil during reheating to keep it moist.
Enjoy the creamy goodness and comfort of Cheesy Angel Chicken and Rice Casserole in your home today. Your family will be asking for seconds! Happy cooking!
