Description
A comforting and creamy chicken and rice casserole infused with Italian herbs and melted Colby Jack cheese, perfect for a hearty family meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded
- 3 cups cooked rice
- 1/2 cup butter, room temperature, cubed
- 8 ounces cream cheese, room temperature, cubed
- 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 use
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and generously spray a 9×13-inch casserole dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Soften the Cream Cheese and Butter: In a microwave-safe bowl, microwave the cream cheese and butter for 20-30 seconds until softened, then whisk until smooth to create a creamy base.
- Mix the Casserole Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the 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 everything together until well blended.
- Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the chicken and rice mixture evenly into the prepared casserole dish. Sprinkle the remaining shredded Colby Jack cheese evenly over the top to create a cheesy crust.
- Bake the Casserole: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese has melted fully and the casserole is hot and bubbling around the edges.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven, let it cool uncovered for 5 minutes, then garnish with fresh parsley before serving to add a pop of color and freshness.
Notes
- Use freshly cooked chicken and rice for best texture and flavor.
- If you prefer a crispier top, remove the foil during the last 5 minutes of baking.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Feel free to substitute Colby Jack cheese with cheddar or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
- For a richer taste, use homemade chicken stock instead of store-bought.
