Angel Chicken Rice is a comforting and creamy dish that combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a rich sauce for a meal that’s both hearty and satisfying. The cream cheese and butter create a smooth, velvety sauce that coats each grain of rice and piece of chicken, making every bite flavorful and indulgent. The Italian dressing mix adds a delightful savory kick, while the Colby Jack cheese brings extra creaminess and a melty finish. This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prepping, or family gatherings when you want something easy, delicious, and filling.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the fact that it’s all made in one pan. It’s an ideal choice for those looking for a quick and flavorful meal without spending too much time in the kitchen. The ingredients are easy to find, and the cooking process is straightforward. With the combination of chicken, rice, and a creamy sauce, Angel Chicken Rice is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that can be customized to suit your tastes. Whether you’re feeding a busy family or preparing a meal for guests, this dish will leave everyone satisfied.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Easy

This dish comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights. With only a few steps and minimal prep, dinner is served in no time.

2. One-Pan Wonder

Since everything is cooked in one pan, cleanup is a breeze. No need to worry about washing multiple pots and pans after dinner.

3. Rich and Creamy

The combination of cream cheese, butter, and cream of chicken soup creates a rich, creamy sauce that makes the chicken and rice irresistibly flavorful.

4. Cheesy Goodness

The melted Colby Jack cheese adds a gooey, cheesy finish to the dish, enhancing both the texture and flavor.

5. Family-Friendly

This dish is a hit with both kids and adults alike. It’s the kind of comforting, familiar meal that everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients

Cooked chicken (diced or shredded)
Cooked rice

Butter (cubed, room temperature)
Cream cheese (cubed, room temperature)
Cream of chicken soup

Garlic (minced)
Italian dressing mix (Good Seasons)
Chicken stock

Shredded Colby Jack cheese (divided use)
Salt and pepper
Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Variations

Vegetarian Version: Use a vegetable-based protein such as tofu or chickpeas in place of chicken for a vegetarian option.
Different Cheeses: Swap the Colby Jack for cheddar, mozzarella, or a combination of cheeses to suit your preference.
Add Vegetables: Consider adding vegetables like peas, carrots, or spinach to make the dish even more hearty and nutritious.

Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce for a spicy version of the dish.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a large pan, combine the butter, cream cheese, cream of chicken soup, and chicken stock. Heat over medium heat until the butter and cream cheese are melted and the mixture is smooth.

Step 2: Add Seasonings

Stir in the minced garlic, Italian dressing mix, and salt and pepper to taste. Allow the sauce to simmer for a few minutes until everything is well combined.

Step 3: Add Chicken and Rice

Add the cooked chicken and rice to the pan, stirring to coat everything with the creamy sauce. Heat the mixture through for 5-7 minutes, ensuring the rice and chicken are thoroughly combined with the sauce.

Step 4: Add Cheese

Once everything is heated through, sprinkle 1 1/2 cups of the shredded Colby Jack cheese over the mixture. Stir until the cheese is melted and fully incorporated into the dish.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Remove from heat and sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheese over the top. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve immediately.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Use Leftover Chicken: This recipe is a great way to use up leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken you have on hand.
Don’t Overcook the Rice: Ensure the rice is fully cooked before adding it to the sauce so it can absorb all the flavors without becoming mushy.
Adjust the Creaminess: If you prefer a creamier texture, add a bit more chicken stock or cream cheese.

Stir Frequently: Stir the dish occasionally while it’s cooking to ensure the rice and chicken are evenly coated with the creamy sauce.

How to Serve

Angel Chicken Rice is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded dinner. You could also serve it with garlic bread or crusty rolls to soak up the delicious creamy sauce.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Allow any leftover Angel Chicken Rice to cool before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

This dish can be frozen for up to 3 months. After cooking, let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the dish in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of chicken stock or cream if it looks too thick. Stir frequently until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat it in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute Colby Jack with cheddar, mozzarella, or any cheese you prefer. Experiment with different varieties to find your favorite flavor.

2. Can I make this recipe without Italian dressing mix?

If you don’t have Italian dressing mix, you can substitute with a combination of dried herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme, or use a packet of ranch seasoning for a different flavor.

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

Yes, you can use brown rice, but keep in mind that it may require more liquid and a longer cooking time to soften.

4. Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Vegetables like peas, carrots, or spinach can be added to the rice for additional flavor and nutrition.

5. Can I use low-fat cream cheese or a lighter version of cream of chicken soup?

Yes, using lighter versions of cream cheese and soup will reduce the overall richness, but the dish will still be tasty.

6. Can I use uncooked chicken in this recipe?

It’s best to use cooked chicken in this dish to ensure that the chicken doesn’t dry out while the rice cooks. If using uncooked chicken, make sure to cook it thoroughly before adding it to the pan.

7. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the dish up until the baking step, then cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, simply heat it through on the stove.

8. How can I make this dish spicier?

If you like heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or hot sauce to the dish to bring a spicy kick.

9. Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, Angel Chicken Rice freezes well. Let it cool completely before freezing, and store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

10. Can I make this dish with cooked turkey instead of chicken?

Yes, turkey can be used as a substitute for chicken in this recipe. It will work just as well and make for a great post-holiday meal.

Conclusion

Angel Chicken Rice is a simple yet indulgent dish that combines creamy, cheesy flavors with tender chicken and rice for a meal that everyone will love. The ease of preparation and minimal cleanup make it perfect for busy weeknights, while the rich and comforting flavors make it ideal for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it to your family or preparing a meal for guests, this dish is sure to impress and satisfy. With its creamy texture and cheesy goodness, Angel Chicken Rice is the ultimate comfort food.