Angel Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe: Creamy, Comforting, and Easy
If you’re looking for a hearty, comforting meal that brings the family together, this Angel Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe is the perfect choice. Tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a creamy, flavorful sauce come together in one dish to create a cozy classic that’s ideal for weeknight dinners or a satisfying weekend meal.
This recipe is easy to prepare and bakes to perfection, making it a stress-free option for busy days. Whether you’re serving it to guests or enjoying it as a family favorite, this casserole is guaranteed to become a staple in your kitchen.
Let’s dive in and create this creamy, dreamy casserole!
Why You’ll Love This Angel Chicken and Rice Casserole
Here’s why this recipe is bound to be a hit in your home:
- One-Dish Wonder:
Everything—chicken, rice, and sauce—cooks together in one dish, minimizing cleanup. - Rich and Creamy:
The combination of cream of chicken soup, cream cheese, and seasonings creates a sauce that’s velvety and full of flavor. - Comfort Food Classic:
This casserole is warm, filling, and perfect for cozy family dinners. - Customizable:
Add vegetables, swap the rice for pasta, or adjust the seasonings to suit your taste. - Make-Ahead Friendly:
Assemble it ahead of time and bake it when you’re ready to serve.
Ingredients for Angel Chicken and Rice Casserole
This recipe uses simple ingredients to create a comforting, flavor-packed casserole:
1. Chicken Breasts
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best, but thighs can be used for extra juiciness.
2. Rice
- Long-grain white rice is ideal for this recipe, as it cooks evenly and absorbs the flavors of the sauce.
3. Cream of Chicken Soup
- A can of cream of chicken soup forms the base of the creamy sauce. Use homemade or low-sodium options if preferred.
4. Cream Cheese
- Cream cheese adds richness and a velvety texture to the casserole.
5. Chicken Broth
- Chicken broth enhances the flavor of the dish and helps cook the rice to perfection.
6. Garlic and Onion Powder
- These seasonings add depth and a hint of savory flavor.
7. Italian Seasoning
- Italian seasoning brings a blend of herbs that complements the creamy sauce.
8. Parmesan Cheese (Optional)
- A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese adds a savory, cheesy finish to the casserole.
Optional Add-ins and Variations
- Vegetables: Add broccoli, peas, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Cheesy Topping: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese on top before baking for a cheesy crust.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or paprika for a touch of heat.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free cream of chicken soup and rice for a gluten-free version.
How to Make Angel Chicken and Rice Casserole
Follow these simple steps to create a creamy, comforting casserole:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, softened cream cheese, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning until smooth and well combined.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
- Spread the uncooked rice evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Lay the chicken breasts on top of the rice. Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken and rice, ensuring everything is evenly covered.
Step 4: Cover and Bake
- Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 50–55 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C) and the rice is tender.
Step 5: Add the Parmesan Cheese
- Remove the foil and sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top. Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 5–10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions
This Angel Chicken and Rice Casserole is a complete meal on its own, but here are some sides to pair with it for a well-rounded dinner:
- Green Salad: Serve with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette.
- Garlic Bread: Add a side of warm, buttery garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
- Roasted Vegetables: Pair with roasted asparagus, carrots, or Brussels sprouts for added nutrition.
- Cranberry Sauce: Add a dollop of cranberry sauce for a sweet and tangy contrast.
Tips for Perfect Angel Chicken and Rice Casserole
- Use Long-Grain Rice: Short-grain rice may become mushy, so stick with long-grain varieties for the best texture.
- Cover Tightly: Covering the casserole with foil ensures the rice cooks evenly and absorbs the sauce.
- Check the Chicken Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to make sure the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Don’t Overbake: Check the casserole at the 50-minute mark to avoid overcooking the chicken or drying out the rice.
- Make It Ahead: Assemble the casserole, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Bake it fresh when ready to serve.
Angel Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup long-grain white rice uncooked
- 1 can 10.5 oz cream of chicken soup
- 4 oz cream cheese softened
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese optional
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, cream cheese, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning until smooth.
- Spread the uncooked rice evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Lay the chicken breasts on top of the rice. Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken and rice, ensuring everything is evenly covered.
- Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 50–55 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.
- Remove the foil and sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top. Bake for an additional 5–10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.
Notes
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
- Freezing: Assemble the casserole without the Parmesan cheese, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
- Vegetable Additions: Add diced carrots, peas, or spinach to the casserole for added nutrition.