A creamy, comforting casserole that brings tender chicken, fluffy rice, and melted Colby Jack together into an easy, family-friendly meal.
introduction
Heavenly Chicken Angel Rice is a simple, cozy casserole that’s perfect for weeknights or potlucks because it’s quick to assemble and bakes into a luscious, cheesy dish. For another chicken-and-rice option with a bold flavor twist, check out the Honey BBQ Chicken & Rice recipe.
why make this recipe
This recipe is ideal when you want something comforting, budget-friendly, and crowd-pleasing with minimal fuss. It uses common pantry ingredients, makes a generous casserole that feeds several people, and reheats beautifully for easy leftovers.
how to make Heavenly Chicken Angel Rice
Follow the simple mix-and-bake method below: combine cooked rice and chicken with butter and cream cheese, spread in a casserole dish, top with Colby Jack, and bake until bubbly.
Ingredients :
- 3 cups cooked rice
- 3 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded
- 1/2 cup butter, room temperature and cubed
- 8 ounces cream cheese, room temperature and cubed
- Colby Jack cheese, shredded (for topping)
Directions :
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, diced chicken, butter, and cream cheese. Mix until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish and spread evenly.
- Top with shredded Colby Jack cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your creamy comfort food!
how to serve Heavenly Chicken Angel Rice
Serve hot as a main dish with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables to cut through the richness. Garnish with chopped parsley or sliced green onions for color and a hint of freshness.
how to store Heavenly Chicken Angel Rice
Cool the casserole to room temperature, then cover tightly and refrigerate for up to 3–4 days. For longer storage, portion into airtight containers and freeze for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven until warmed through.
tips to make Heavenly Chicken Angel Rice
- Use day-old rice or cool freshly cooked rice to prevent a gummy texture.
- Shred rotisserie chicken for convenience and extra flavor.
- Let the cream cheese soften fully at room temperature so it blends smoothly.
- If the top browns too quickly, tent loosely with foil while baking.
variation (if any)
- Add cooked frozen peas or mixed vegetables for color and nutrition.
- Stir in a can of drained cream of chicken soup for an even creamier casserole and a different flavor profile.
- Swap Colby Jack for a cheddar/Monterey Jack blend or pepper jack for a spicy kick.
FAQ
Q: Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
A: Yes—use cooked brown rice, though texture will be slightly firmer and you may need to adjust baking time if it’s denser.
Q: Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
A: Yes. Freeze in portions or as a whole casserole. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: Assemble in the dish, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the bake time if coming straight from the fridge.
Conclusion
For a similar classic take on this comforting chicken-and-rice casserole, see the full Angel Chicken and Rice Casserole recipe on Plain Chicken’s site.
Heavenly Chicken Angel Rice
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, diced chicken, butter, and cream cheese. Mix until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish and spread evenly.
- Top with shredded Colby Jack cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
