Angel Chicken And Rice Casserole Recipe

There’s something so heartwarming about a creamy, savory casserole, and Angel Chicken and Rice Casserole is no exception. This dish combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a heavenly sauce that’s rich, flavorful, and utterly comforting. It’s the perfect all-in-one meal for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners.

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I first stumbled upon this recipe during a chilly winter evening when I needed something easy yet satisfying. Over the years, it has become a family favorite, with its irresistible combination of flavors and textures. Let’s dive into this crowd-pleasing casserole!

Why You’ll Love This Angel Chicken and Rice Casserole

Prepare to add this casserole to your recipe rotation—there’s so much to love about it!

Comfort Food at Its Best: Creamy, savory, and baked to perfection, this dish delivers all the cozy vibes.

Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can assemble this casserole in no time, making it perfect for busy days.

Kid-Friendly: The mild flavors and creamy texture make it a hit with even the pickiest eaters.

Make-Ahead Friendly: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time, pop it in the fridge, and bake it when you’re ready.

Let’s look at the ingredients that make this dish so irresistible.

Ingredients Notes

This recipe is made with a handful of pantry staples and fresh ingredients that come together to create magic.

• Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work perfectly, but thighs can be used for a juicier option.
• Rice: Long-grain white rice is ideal for this dish because it absorbs the flavors of the creamy sauce. You can substitute with brown rice but adjust the cooking time.
• Cream of Mushroom Soup: This classic casserole ingredient provides a creamy base with a rich, savory flavor. For variation, try cream of chicken or cream of celery soup.
• Chicken Broth: Helps cook the rice while adding a savory depth of flavor to the casserole.
• Italian Dressing Mix: A packet of dry Italian dressing mix is the secret ingredient that gives this dish its unique flavor profile.
• Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese makes the sauce irresistibly smooth and creamy.
• Butter: A bit of melted butter enhances the richness of the dish.
• Parmesan Cheese: Shredded Parmesan cheese sprinkled on top creates a golden, flavorful crust.

All you need is a 9x13-inch casserole dish to bring this dish to life.

How to Make Angel Chicken and Rice Casserole

Making this comforting casserole is as simple as mix, layer, and bake. Here’s how to do it:

1. Preheat and Prepare
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish to prevent sticking.
2. Layer the Rice
   Spread the uncooked rice evenly across the bottom of the prepared dish.
3. Season the Chicken
   Arrange the chicken breasts on top of the rice. Sprinkle both sides of the chicken with a touch of salt and pepper for extra flavor.
4. Make the Sauce
   In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, Italian dressing mix, cream cheese, and melted butter. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
5. Assemble and Bake
   Pour the sauce evenly over the chicken and rice. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove the foil, sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top, and bake for another 10-15 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
6. Serve and Enjoy
   Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the rice to absorb any remaining liquid. Serve hot and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

This one-pan wonder comes together in just over an hour, and most of that is hands-off time.

Storage Options

Angel Chicken and Rice Casserole stores beautifully, making it great for leftovers.

• Refrigerator: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Freeze the fully baked casserole in a freezer-safe dish for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm individual portions in the microwave or reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F, covered, until heated through.

Variations and Substitutions

This casserole is highly customizable, so feel free to tweak it to suit your taste!

• Protein Options: Swap the chicken for turkey, ham, or even sliced smoked sausage for a different flavor profile.
• Vegetable Additions: Stir in cooked broccoli, peas, or sautéed mushrooms for added nutrition and texture.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for a little heat.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free cream soup and ensure the Italian dressing mix is gluten-free.
• Lighter Version: Use low-fat cream cheese and reduced-fat cream of mushroom soup for a lighter casserole.

With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and fluffy rice, Angel Chicken and Rice Casserole is a meal that satisfies both the stomach and the soul. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Gather your ingredients, and let’s bake up some comfort!

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