Description
The “Cheesy Chicken and Rice Delight” is a sumptuous casserole that promises a delightful mix of savory chicken, creamy cheese, and aromatic rice. This hearty dish serves as an ideal centerpiece for family dinners or casual gatherings, melding familiar ingredients into a comforting eating experience.
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded
- 3 cups cooked rice
- 1 cup butter, room temperature and cubed
- 8 ounces cream cheese, room temperature and cubed
- 10.5 ounces cream of chicken soup
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 0.7 ounce Italian dressing mix (suggested brand: Good Seasons)
- 1 cup chicken stock
- 2 cups shredded Colby Jack cheese, divided
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Step-by-step Directions
1. Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F. While the oven warms, spray a 9×13 inch casserole dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Soften Butter and Cream Cheese
Place the room-temperature butter and cream cheese in a microwave-safe bowl. Warm in the microwave for 20-30 seconds, then whisk until smooth.
3. Mix Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, rice, cream cheese and butter mixture, cream of chicken soup, minced garlic, Italian dressing mix, chicken stock, and half of the shredded cheese. Season with salt and pepper and stir until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
4. Assemble the Casserole
Transfer the mixed ingredients into the prepared casserole dish. Spread evenly and then sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese over the top.
5. Bake
Cover the casserole dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. The cooking is perfect when the cheese is thoroughly melted and the casserole bubbles around the edges.
6. Garnish and Serve
After removing the casserole from the oven, let it sit for 5 minutes to cool slightly. Remove the foil, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and serve warm.
Servings & Preparation Time
This recipe comfortably serves between 6 to 8 people. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, and cooking time is about 25 minutes, totaling 40 minutes from kitchen to table.
Tips for Storage & Reheating
- Store leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the microwave, stirring occasionally, or in the oven at 350 degrees F until heated through.
- To freeze, wrap the casserole tightly with foil or place in freezer-safe containers for up to 1 month for best quality. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Conclusion
The “Cheesy Chicken and Rice Delight” is a versatile and satisfying dish that combines the comforting flavors of chicken and cheese with the hearty substance of rice. Its ease of preparation makes it an excellent choice for busy weekday dinners or relaxed weekend feasts alike. With tips on storage and reheating included, you can enjoy this delicious casserole whenever the craving strikes!
Print
Cheesy Chicken and Rice Delight
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 to 8 servings 1x
Description
The “Cheesy Chicken and Rice Delight” is a sumptuous casserole that promises a delightful mix of savory chicken, creamy cheese, and aromatic rice. This hearty dish serves as an ideal centerpiece for family dinners or casual gatherings, melding familiar ingredients into a comforting eating experience.
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded
- 3 cups cooked rice
- 1 cup butter, room temperature and cubed
- 8 ounces cream cheese, room temperature and cubed
- 10.5 ounces cream of chicken soup
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 0.7 ounce Italian dressing mix (suggested brand: Good Seasons)
- 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 degrees F and spray a 9×13 inch casserole dish with cooking spray.
- Soften the butter and cream cheese in a microwave-safe bowl, then whisk until smooth.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, rice, cream cheese and butter mixture, cream of chicken soup, minced garlic, Italian dressing mix, chicken stock, and half of the shredded cheese. Season with salt and pepper and stir until evenly distributed.
- Transfer the mixed ingredients into the prepared casserole dish, spread evenly, and sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese over the top.
- Cover the casserole dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted and the casserole bubbles around the edges.
- Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes, garnish with parsley, and serve warm.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes