A comforting, creamy casserole packed with tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a cheesy, garlicky sauce. This dish is perfect for family dinners, meal prepping, or any gathering that calls for a hearty and satisfying meal. Let’s dive into this step-by-step recipe that guarantees warm, comforting flavors in every bite.
Ingredients:
For the Casserole:
- 3 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded (rotisserie chicken works great!)
- 3 cups cooked rice (white or brown rice can be used)
- 8 ounces cream cheese, cubed and softened at room temperature
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cubed and softened at room temperature
- 10.5 ounces cream of chicken soup (1 can)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (0.7-ounce) packet Italian dressing mix (such as Good Seasons)
- 1 cup chicken stock (low sodium preferred)
- 2 cups shredded Colby Jack cheese, divided (or substitute with cheddar or mozzarella)
Seasoning and Garnish:
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray or butter and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Sauce
- In a large mixing bowl, add the softened cream cheese and butter. Using a hand mixer or a sturdy whisk, blend the two until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Add the cream of chicken soup to the bowl, followed by the minced garlic and the packet of Italian dressing mix. Stir well to combine the flavors into a rich, creamy sauce.
- Gradually pour in the chicken stock, stirring as you go, to thin the mixture slightly while keeping it creamy. Ensure the sauce is smooth and well-blended.
Step 3: Combine Main Ingredients
- To the creamy sauce, add the cooked chicken, cooked rice, and 1 cup of shredded Colby Jack cheese.
- Gently fold all the ingredients together until the chicken and rice are evenly coated with the sauce. Add salt and pepper to taste at this stage.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
- Transfer the mixture to your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly for a smooth layer.
- Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded Colby Jack cheese evenly across the top of the casserole.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. The cheese on top should melt completely and become golden and bubbly.
- Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to settle.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Just before serving, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a pop of color and a hint of freshness.
- Serve warm and enjoy this creamy, comforting casserole as-is, or pair it with a light side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Nutritional Information:
- ⏰ Prep Time: 15 minutes
- ⏰ Cooking Time: 35 minutes
- ⏰ Total Time: 50 minutes
- 🔥 Calories: ~450 kcal per serving
- 🍽️ Servings: 6
Helpful Tips:
- Make It Ahead: You can prepare the casserole the night before. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. Bake as directed when ready to serve, adding an extra 5-10 minutes of cooking time.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free cream of chicken soup and Italian dressing mix, and double-check all other ingredients for gluten.
- Add Veggies: Stir in 1 cup of cooked broccoli florets, peas, or sautéed mushrooms for added nutrients.
- Cheese Swap: Substitute Colby Jack with sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of Parmesan and mozzarella for different flavor profiles.
Flavorful Pairings:
- Side Salad: A crisp garden salad with a zesty vinaigrette pairs beautifully with the creamy casserole.
- Roasted Vegetables: Oven-roasted asparagus, carrots, or brussels sprouts make a great side dish.
- Bread Option: Serve with warm dinner rolls or garlic bread to mop up the sauce.