Angel Chicken And Rice Casserole Recipe

There's something magical about the comforting aroma of Angel Chicken and Rice Casserole baking in the oven. The combination of tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a creamy, flavorful sauce makes this dish a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

The first time I made this casserole, it quickly became a family favorite. It’s the kind of recipe that feels like a warm hug on a busy evening – simple to prepare yet rich in flavor. If you're looking for a meal that’s both indulgent and easy to make, this recipe is your answer.

Why You’ll Love This Angel Chicken and Rice Casserole

Get ready to discover your new go-to comfort food! This Angel Chicken and Rice Casserole is as easy to love as it is to make.

First, it’s incredibly convenient. With minimal prep and just one baking dish, this recipe saves time and cleanup – perfect for those hectic weeknights.

Second, the flavors are out of this world. The creamy sauce, seasoned with garlic, Italian herbs, and a hint of Parmesan, coats every bite of tender chicken and perfectly cooked rice. It’s pure comfort in every forkful.

Plus, this dish is incredibly family-friendly. Even picky eaters will be asking for seconds, thanks to its rich, familiar flavors.

Finally, it's versatile! You can customize the recipe with your favorite vegetables or swap out ingredients to fit what you have on hand. It's a true kitchen chameleon that fits every pantry and preference.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this Angel Chicken and Rice Casserole lies in its simple, high-impact ingredients. Here's what makes this dish shine:

• Chicken Breasts or Thighs: Both options work beautifully, but I prefer chicken thighs for their extra juiciness and flavor. If you use chicken breasts, slice them thinly for quicker cooking.
• Rice: Long-grain white rice is ideal here because it cooks evenly with the chicken and soaks up all the delicious flavors of the sauce. Avoid instant rice, as it can become mushy.
• Cream of Chicken Soup: This is the foundation of the casserole's creamy base. If you're avoiding canned soups, you can substitute with homemade cream sauce.
• Italian Dressing Mix: This magical seasoning packet adds a tangy, herbaceous kick that takes the dish to the next level.
• Butter and Cream Cheese: These create a luscious sauce that clings to every grain of rice and piece of chicken. Opt for full-fat for the richest results.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds a nutty, savory finish. Shred it fresh for the best flavor.

Special Equipment: You'll need a 9x13-inch baking dish and aluminum foil to ensure the casserole bakes evenly.

How To Make This Angel Chicken and Rice Casserole

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Creating this casserole is as easy as layering and baking – here’s how:

1. Prepare Your Ingredients
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray. Meanwhile, rinse 1 cup of rice under cold water to remove excess starch and set aside.
2. Layer the Rice and Chicken
   Spread the rinsed rice evenly over the bottom of your prepared dish. Arrange the chicken pieces on top, ensuring they're evenly distributed.
3. Mix the Sauce
   In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt 4 oz of cream cheese with 1 cup of cream of chicken soup, ½ cup of chicken broth, and the Italian dressing mix. Stir until smooth and creamy. Pour this mixture over the chicken and rice, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
4. Add Butter and Bake
   Dot the casserole with small cubes of butter (about 2 tablespoons total) and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Cover tightly with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
5. Uncover and Finish Baking
   Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, allowing the top to brown slightly. Check that the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F).

This dish takes just about an hour from start to finish and rewards you with a bubbling, golden casserole that’s ready to serve.

Storage Options

Got leftovers? This casserole stores beautifully!

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or larger amounts in the oven at 350°F.
• Freezer: You can freeze this casserole for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Make-Ahead Tip: Assemble the casserole, cover it with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add 10 minutes to the baking time if it's cold from the fridge.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is wonderfully flexible. Here are some ideas to make it your own:

1. Vegetable Boost: Add steamed broccoli, peas, or diced carrots for extra color and nutrients.
2. Whole-Grain Swap: Substitute brown rice for white rice. You’ll need to increase the baking time by about 10-15 minutes to account for its longer cooking time.
3. Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free cream of chicken soup and check that your Italian dressing mix is gluten-free.
4. Cheesy Upgrade: Mix shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese into the sauce for an extra cheesy casserole.
5. Protein Alternatives: Swap chicken for turkey or even shrimp. If using shrimp, add it during the last 15 minutes of baking to prevent overcooking.

The possibilities are endless, so don’t be afraid to get creative!

Enjoy every bite of this warm, hearty casserole – a dish so comforting, it’ll feel like a family tradition from the first time you serve it.