Angel Chicken Rice

Angel Chicken Rice is a creamy, comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Packed with tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a rich blend of cream cheese, butter, and Colby Jack cheese, this recipe brings a heavenly combination of flavors to your table. The creamy texture of the sauce, the savory depth of the chicken, and the satisfying rice come together effortlessly in this one-pan wonder. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a casual gathering, or meal prepping for the week, Angel Chicken Rice is sure to please everyone.

The secret to its delightful creaminess lies in the combination of cream cheese and cream of chicken soup, which creates a luscious, velvety sauce. The addition of garlic and Italian dressing mix infuses the dish with a burst of flavor, while the shredded Colby Jack cheese adds a melt-in-your-mouth richness. This easy recipe is a crowd-pleaser that requires minimal preparation and cooks in no time, making it an ideal choice for busy days or laid-back evenings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Creamy and Flavorful

The combination of cream cheese, cream of chicken soup, and Colby Jack cheese creates a rich, creamy texture and a burst of savory flavor in every bite.

2. Quick and Easy

This dish is ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights when you need a hearty meal without a lot of prep.

3. One-Pan Wonder

With all the ingredients cooked together in one pan, this recipe simplifies both the cooking and the cleanup process.

4. Versatile

You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your preferences, such as using different cheeses, adding vegetables, or swapping chicken for turkey.

5. Comfort Food at Its Best

This dish is a satisfying, comforting meal that will leave everyone feeling full and happy.

Ingredients

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

Variations

• Use Different Cheeses: You can swap Colby Jack cheese for other varieties like cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend of your favorite cheeses.
• Add Vegetables: Incorporate vegetables like peas, spinach, or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
• Use Sour Cream: For a tangy twist, you can substitute some of the cream cheese with sour cream.
• Try Different Protein: Instead of chicken, use turkey or even ham for a different flavor profile.
• Spicy Version: Add some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to give the dish a little heat.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

If you haven’t already, cook your chicken and rice. Shred or dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces, and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Garlic

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 3: Combine the Sauces and Stock

Add the cream cheese, cream of chicken soup, and chicken stock to the skillet. Stir everything together until the cream cheese and soup have melted into a smooth sauce.

Step 4: Add the Chicken and Rice

Stir in the cooked chicken and rice, mixing until evenly coated with the creamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Add the Italian Dressing Mix

Sprinkle the Italian dressing mix over the top and stir to combine. Let the dish simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 6: Add the Cheese

Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded Colby Jack cheese into the mixture, stirring until the cheese is fully melted and incorporated. Top with the remaining 1 cup of cheese, then cover the skillet. Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once everything is cooked through and the cheese is melted, remove from the heat. Garnish with fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve hot, and enjoy!

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use Leftover Chicken: This is a great recipe for using up leftover chicken. Just make sure it’s cooked and diced or shredded before adding it to the skillet.
• Add More Liquid: If the mixture seems too thick, you can add a little extra chicken stock or a splash of milk to loosen it up.
• Customize the Rice: For extra flavor, try cooking your rice in chicken broth instead of water.
• Don’t Overcook: Be careful not to overcook the rice and chicken, as this can make the dish dry. Keep an eye on it and stir occasionally to ensure it stays moist.
• Use Full-Fat Cream Cheese: For the richest, creamiest texture, use full-fat cream cheese.

How to Serve

Angel Chicken Rice is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs well with a side of steamed vegetables, a fresh salad, or some garlic bread for added crunch. For a lighter meal, serve it with a side of green beans or roasted broccoli.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

This dish can be frozen, but it’s best to freeze it before adding the cheese. Once frozen, it will keep for 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then heat on the stove or in the microwave. Once heated through, stir in the cheese.

Reheating

To reheat, place the leftovers in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken stock or water to help loosen the sauce. Stir occasionally until it’s heated through and the cheese is melted.

FAQs

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

Yes, using pre-cooked rice is a great time-saver, and it works just as well.

2. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute the Colby Jack cheese with other cheeses like cheddar or mozzarella, depending on your preference.

3. Can I make this recipe without cream cheese?

If you don’t have cream cheese, you can use sour cream, Greek yogurt, or even a combination of both to achieve a creamy texture.

4. Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?

Yes, you can transfer everything into a slow cooker and cook on low for 3-4 hours. Add the cheese in the last 30 minutes of cooking.

5. Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Vegetables like peas, spinach, or mushrooms are great additions to this dish and will enhance both the flavor and nutrition.

6. Can I use leftover rice?

Yes, leftover rice works perfectly for this dish. Just make sure to heat it thoroughly while mixing with the sauce.

7. What if the sauce is too thick?

If the sauce is too thick, simply add a little more chicken stock or milk to reach your desired consistency.

8. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can make it ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 3-4 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave when ready to serve.

9. Can I use cooked turkey instead of chicken?

Yes, cooked turkey would work great in this recipe as a substitute for chicken.

10. How can I make this dish spicier?

To add some heat, try stirring in a bit of red pepper flakes or your favorite hot sauce.

Conclusion

Angel Chicken Rice is a creamy, cheesy, and comforting dish that comes together with ease. The combination of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and fluffy rice makes it the perfect meal for any night of the week. With its rich flavors and simple preparation, this dish is sure to become a household favorite. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting meal to enjoy with family, Angel Chicken Rice delivers on all fronts. Enjoy!

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