Description
A comforting and creamy chicken and rice casserole infused with Italian herbs and melted Colby Jack cheese, perfect for a hearty family meal. This easy chicken rice casserole recipe is a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
Scale
- 3 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded
- 3 cups cooked rice
- 1/2 cup butter, room temperature
- 8 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
- 10.5 ounces cream of chicken soup
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 0.7 ounce Italian dressing mix
- 1 cup chicken stock
- 2 cups shredded Colby Jack cheese, divided
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and spray a 9×13-inch casserole dish with cooking spray.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, soften cream cheese and butter for 20-30 seconds. Whisk until smooth.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked chicken, cooked rice, softened butter and cream cheese mixture, cream of chicken soup, minced garlic, Italian dressing mix, chicken stock, half of the shredded Colby Jack cheese, salt, and pepper. Stir until well blended.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared casserole dish and spread evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining shredded Colby Jack cheese over the top.
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 20-25 minutes, until cheese is melted and the casserole is bubbling.
- Remove from oven, let cool for 5 minutes, then garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- Use freshly cooked chicken and rice for best results.
- For a crispier top, remove foil during the last 5 minutes of baking.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Substitute Colby Jack cheese with cheddar or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
- Use homemade chicken stock for a richer taste.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
Keywords: Creamy Chicken Rice Casserole, easy chicken rice casserole recipe, chicken rice bake recipe, one-pan chicken rice casserole, cheesy chicken rice casserole