Angel Chicken And Rice Casserole Recipe

The Most Heavenly Angel Chicken And Rice Casserole Recipe

Comfort food takes on a heavenly dimension with this delectable angel chicken and rice casserole that promises to delight every taste bud.

Creamy, savory, and incredibly satisfying, this dish combines tender chicken with perfectly cooked rice in a luxurious sauce.

Each forkful delivers a symphony of flavors that dance across your palate with delightful harmony.

The recipe blends simple ingredients into an extraordinary meal that feels both nostalgic and exciting.

Weeknight dinners never looked so good, with minimal preparation and maximum deliciousness.

Layers of rich, cheesy goodness await you in this crowd-pleasing casserole that transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary feast.

Warm up your kitchen and hearts with this irresistible culinary creation that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.

FAQs

  • What ingredients make this casserole creamy?

The combination of cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and butter creates a rich, velvety sauce that coats the chicken and rice perfectly.

  • Can I use different types of rice?

Long-grain white rice works best for this recipe, but you can also use brown rice. Just adjust the cooking time as brown rice typically requires more liquid and longer baking.

  • Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Absolutely! This casserole reheats well and stays moist, making it an excellent option for preparing ahead of time and enjoying throughout the week.

  • How can I ensure the chicken doesn't dry out?

The sauce and foil covering help keep the chicken tender. Make sure to check the internal temperature reaches 165°F to confirm it’s fully cooked without overcooking.

Angel Chicken and Rice: Why It’s a Favorite

  • Simplify Cooking: One-dish wonder that eliminates multiple pots and complicated techniques, perfect for home cooks wanting delicious meals without stress.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: Creamy, savory casserole that satisfies everyone from kids to adults with its rich flavor and hearty ingredients.
  • Minimal Prep Magic: Requires basic mixing and layering skills, making it an ideal recipe for beginners or busy individuals seeking a quick, nutritious dinner solution.
  • Versatile Meal Option: Adaptable dish that works great for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep, providing flexibility for different dining scenarios.

What Goes in Angel Chicken and Rice

Protein:
  • Chicken Breasts: Tender and juicy meat that forms the main protein base of the casserole.
Rice and Base:
  • Uncooked Rice: The foundation of the casserole that absorbs flavors and creates a hearty texture.
Sauce and Seasoning:
  • Cream of Mushroom Soup, Cream of Chicken Soup: Creamy sauces that provide rich flavor and moisture to the dish.
  • Chicken Broth: Adds depth and enhances the savory profile of the casserole.
  • Sour Cream: Introduces a tangy richness and helps create a smooth sauce.
  • Melted Butter: Contributes to the richness and helps bind the sauce ingredients.
Herbs and Spices:
  • Italian Dressing Mix: Brings a zesty and herbal flavor to the casserole.
  • Garlic Powder, Salt, Pepper: Classic seasonings that enhance the overall taste.
Garnish:
  • Parsley: Fresh herb that adds a bright, colorful finish to the dish.

Cooking Angel Chicken and Rice

Step 1: Warm Up The Oven

Crank the oven to a cozy 350°F and get ready for a delicious adventure.

Step 2: Prepare The Baking Dish

Grease your 9×13-inch baking dish and spread the uncooked rice across the bottom like a fluffy blanket.

Step 3: Create The Magic Sauce

Grab a medium bowl and whisk together these flavor-packed ingredients:
  • Cream of mushroom soup
  • Cream of chicken soup
  • Chicken broth
  • Sour cream
  • Melted butter
  • Italian dressing mix
  • Garlic powder
  • Salt
  • Black pepper

Blend until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: First Sauce Layer

Pour half of the dreamy sauce over the rice, making sure it’s evenly distributed.

Step 5: Nestle The Chicken

Gently place chicken breasts on top of the rice, then pour the remaining sauce over them, completely coating the chicken.

Step 6: Bake Under Wraps

Cover the dish tightly with foil and slide into the oven.

Bake for a full hour, letting all those flavors mingle and dance.

Step 7: Final Crisp And Cook

Remove the foil and return to the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes.

You’re looking for perfectly cooked chicken and tender, fluffy rice.

Step 8: Garnish And Serve

Sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and extra freshness.

Serve hot and enjoy your comforting meal!

Tips for a Cozy Chicken Casserole

  • Cover the casserole with aluminum foil during initial baking to lock in steam and keep chicken incredibly juicy.
  • Select low-sodium cream soups and chicken broth to control salt content without sacrificing flavor.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe and perfectly cooked protein.
  • Swap Italian dressing mix with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a more robust and homemade taste profile.
  • Experiment with brown rice or wild rice blend for added nutrition and interesting texture variations.

Fun Variations for Angel Chicken and Rice

  • Vegetarian Rice Bake: Replace chicken with firm tofu or plant-based chicken alternative, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and swap cream of chicken soup for cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup.
  • Gluten-Free Casserole: Use gluten-free cream soups, substitute Italian dressing mix with herbs like thyme and oregano, and ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free.
  • Low-Sodium Version: Select low-sodium soups, omit added salt, use homemade chicken broth with no added salt, and replace Italian dressing mix with fresh herbs and spices.
  • Mediterranean Chicken Casserole: Add chopped olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and swap Italian dressing mix for oregano and basil, using brown rice for extra nutrition and texture.

Ways to Serve Angel Chicken and Rice

  • Comfort Food Companion: Pair this creamy casserole with a light, crisp green salad to balance the rich flavors and add freshness to your meal.
  • Veggie Boost: Roast some seasonal vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or asparagus on the side to increase nutritional value and add colorful variety to the plate.
  • Bread Pairing: Serve with warm garlic bread or soft dinner rolls to soak up the delicious sauce and complete the hearty dining experience.
  • Wine Selection: Choose a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc to complement the creamy texture and cut through the richness of the dish.

Store Angel Chicken and Rice for Later

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keep in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, ensuring the chicken and rice are completely cooled before sealing.
  • Transfer cooled casserole to a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Label with the date to track freshness.
  • Place individual portions in a microwave-safe dish. Add a splash of chicken broth to prevent dryness. Cover and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even warming.
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Angel Chicken And Rice Casserole Recipe

Angel Chicken And Rice Casserole Recipe


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4.6 from 14 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Comfort meets elegance in this hearty Angel Chicken and Rice Casserole, blending creamy textures with savory chicken. Midwest home cooking shines through with its simple ingredients and soul-warming appeal, inviting you to savor each comforting bite.


Ingredients

Scale

Proteins:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Grains and Base:

  • 1 cup uncooked white rice

Sauces and Seasonings:

  • 1 can (10.5 ounces / 298 grams) cream of mushroom soup
  • 1 can (10.5 ounces / 298 grams) cream of chicken soup
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/4 cup butter, melted
  • 1 packet Italian dressing mix
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste

Garnish:

  • Chopped parsley

Instructions

  1. Prepare the oven by heating to 350°F (175°C) and coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray.
  2. Create an even layer of uncooked rice across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
  3. Blend cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, sour cream, melted butter, Italian dressing mix, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl until smooth and well-combined.
  4. Distribute half of the sauce mixture evenly over the rice layer, ensuring complete coverage.
  5. Arrange chicken breasts directly on top of the rice-sauce base, positioning them carefully for uniform cooking.
  6. Pour the remaining sauce over the chicken, thoroughly coating each piece to lock in moisture and flavor.
  7. Seal the baking dish completely with aluminum foil, creating a tight barrier to trap steam and heat.
  8. Bake for 1 hour, maintaining the foil cover to ensure even cooking and prevent drying.
  9. Remove the foil and return the casserole to the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes, allowing the top to slightly crisp and the chicken to reach optimal doneness.
  10. Verify chicken is fully cooked by checking internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  11. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley across the surface for a vibrant garnish before serving.

Notes

  • Swap white rice for brown rice or quinoa to boost nutritional value and add more fiber to the dish.
  • Use low-sodium soup and broth to control salt intake for health-conscious individuals.
  • Create a gluten-free version by selecting gluten-free cream soups and dressing mix.
  • Add sautéed vegetables like mushrooms or spinach between rice and chicken for extra nutrients and flavor complexity.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 415 kcal
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 820 mg
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 9 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 28 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 35 g
  • Cholesterol: 110 mg
Michael Reyes

Michael Reyes

Founder & Lead Recipe Developer

Expertise

  • Southwestern and Latin American cuisine
  • Developing easy single-serving recipes
  • Food styling and food photography

Education

Santa Fe Community College

  • Program: Culinary Arts Certificate
  • Focus: Practical, hands-on learning in essential kitchen skills, including food safety, hygiene, knife techniques, and kitchen organization.

Michael’s love for cooking runs deep, rooted in the bold, colorful flavors of his New Mexico upbringing.
After earning his Culinary Arts Certificate from Santa Fe Community College, he spent years sharpening his skills in kitchens that celebrated traditional Southwestern and Latin American dishes.
He believes cooking should feel approachable and fun, never complicated. When he’s not stirring up new recipe ideas, Michael’s out hiking scenic trails, chatting with farmers at local markets, or chasing the perfect sunset shot for inspiration.

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