Cheap and Easy Poor Man’s Chicken Casserole – A Must-Try Meal
This Creamy Angel Chicken and Rice Casserole is a comforting and cheesy bake that’s perfect for a cozy dinner. With tender chicken, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked rice, this dish is an easy crowd-pleaser! 🧀🍗🍚
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded
- 3 cups cooked rice
- ½ 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 (preferably Good Seasons)
- 1 cup chicken stock
- 2 cups shredded Colby Jack cheese, divided
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with cooking spray.
2️⃣ Soften butter and cream cheese: In a microwave-safe bowl, heat the butter and cream cheese for 20-30 seconds until softened. Whisk until smooth.
3️⃣ Mix ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, rice, softened butter and cream cheese mixture, cream of chicken soup, minced garlic, Italian dressing mix, chicken stock, half of the shredded cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is evenly coated.
4️⃣ Assemble the casserole: Transfer the mixture into the prepared casserole dish and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese over the top.
5️⃣ Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling and the cheese is melted.
6️⃣ Finishing touches: Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes before taking off the foil. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm!
Notes
✅ Make it extra creamy: Add ½ cup sour cream or ½ cup heavy cream for an even richer texture.
✅ Switch up the cheese: Try using cheddar, Monterey Jack, or mozzarella for a different flavor.
✅ Want a crunch? Top with buttered breadcrumbs or crushed Ritz crackers before baking for a crispy texture!