1. Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish: Getting Ready to Bake

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease Baking Dish: Generously spray a 9×13 inch casserole dish with non-stick cooking spray. This will prevent the casserole from sticking and make cleanup easier.

2. Soften Cream Cheese and Butter: Ensuring a Smooth Mixture

1. Combine: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the cubed, room-temperature butter and cream cheese.
2. Microwave: Microwave for 20-30 seconds, or until the butter and cream cheese are softened and can be easily whisked together.
   • Caution: Do not overheat, or the cream cheese may separate.
3. Whisk: Whisk the softened butter and cream cheese together until smooth and well combined.

3. Combine Ingredients: Building the Casserole Filling

1. Add Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cooked rice, the butter and cream cheese mixture, cream of chicken soup, minced garlic, Italian dressing mix, chicken stock, 1 cup of the shredded Colby Jack cheese, salt, and pepper.
2. Mix Well: Stir all the ingredients together until they are evenly combined and the chicken and rice are well coated with the sauce.

4. Assemble the Casserole: Creating the Layers

1. Transfer to Dish: Pour the chicken and rice mixture into the prepared 9×13 inch casserole dish.
2. Spread Evenly: Spread the mixture out evenly in the dish using a rubber spatula.

5. Top with Cheese: The Finishing Touch

1. Add Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded Colby Jack cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.

6. Bake to Perfection: Achieving a Golden, Bubbly Casserole

1. Cover and Bake: Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil.
2. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes.
3. Remove Foil: Remove the foil from the casserole dish.
4. Continue Baking (Optional): If you’d like a slightly browned top, you can continue baking the casserole uncovered for a few more minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly and lightly golden.

7. Cool and Serve: Enjoying Your Creation

1. Cool Slightly: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly.
2. Garnish: Garnish the Angel Chicken Rice with freshly chopped parsley, if desired.
3. Serve Hot: Serve the casserole hot and enjoy!