Angel Chicken And Rice Casserole Recipe

There's something magical about a warm, creamy Angel Chicken and Rice Casserole fresh out of the oven. The blend of tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a velvety, savory sauce creates a dish that's both comforting and satisfying. It's the kind of meal that makes the whole family gather around the table, eager for a second helping.

I first discovered this recipe while searching for a way to combine my love of casseroles with the simplicity of a one-dish dinner. Over the years, it has become my go-to for busy weeknights and casual family gatherings, thanks to its straightforward preparation and unbeatable flavors.

Ready to bring this hearty, home-cooked favorite into your kitchen? Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Angel Chicken and Rice Casserole

Get ready to fall head over heels for this versatile and delicious casserole. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or meal-prepping for the week, this dish checks all the boxes.

First, it’s unbelievably easy to make. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, this recipe comes together in under 20 minutes before heading into the oven. Perfect for busy weeknights when you want a no-fuss dinner that still feels special.

Another win? It’s an all-in-one meal. Protein-packed chicken, fluffy rice, and a creamy sauce mean you don’t have to juggle side dishes—everything you need is in one baking dish.

This casserole is also incredibly forgiving. Whether you want to use rotisserie chicken, switch up the seasoning, or add extra vegetables, this recipe adapts beautifully to your pantry and preferences.

Finally, the flavors are downright irresistible. The savory blend of cream cheese, Italian seasoning, and cream of chicken soup creates a sauce so rich and flavorful, you’ll want to lick your plate clean.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of Angel Chicken and Rice Casserole lies in its simplicity. With just a few pantry staples and fresh ingredients, you can create a comforting meal that tastes like it took hours to make.

• Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best here. They stay tender and juicy as they bake in the creamy sauce. If you’re short on time, pre-cooked rotisserie chicken is a great alternative.
• Rice: Long-grain white rice is my go-to for this recipe. It cooks perfectly in the casserole, absorbing all the flavors from the sauce. Avoid instant or parboiled rice, as they can become mushy.
• Cream of chicken soup: This is the base of the sauce, giving it that rich and creamy consistency. You can substitute cream of mushroom or cream of celery for a slightly different flavor.
• Cream cheese: The secret ingredient! It adds tanginess and depth to the sauce. Make sure it’s softened for easy mixing.
• Italian dressing mix: A packet of this seasoning adds a punch of herby, garlicky goodness to the casserole.
• Chicken broth: This helps cook the rice and creates the perfect sauce consistency. For extra flavor, use a low-sodium version so you can control the salt level.

Equipment: You’ll need a large mixing bowl, a whisk, and a 9x13-inch casserole dish.

How to Make This Angel Chicken and Rice Casserole

Making this casserole is as simple as mix, layer, and bake. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure success every time.

1. Preheat and Prep

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.

2. Make the Sauce

In a large bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, softened cream cheese, Italian dressing mix, and chicken broth until smooth. The mixture should be creamy and well-blended.

3. Layer the Ingredients

Spread the uncooked rice evenly across the bottom of your prepared dish. Place the chicken breasts on top of the rice in a single layer. Pour the creamy sauce over the chicken and rice, making sure everything is well-coated.

4. Bake to Perfection

Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour. This allows the rice to absorb the sauce and the chicken to cook through. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes to let the top lightly brown.

5. Garnish and Serve

Once out of the oven, let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes to set. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and serve hot.

This dish takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes from start to finish, but most of that is hands-off cooking time.

Storage Options

Angel Chicken and Rice Casserole is perfect for leftovers, making it a great option for meal prep or busy weeks.

• Refrigerate: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: This casserole freezes beautifully! Portion it into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• Reheat: Warm individual servings in the microwave or reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F until heated through.

Variations and Substitutions

This casserole is endlessly adaptable! Here are some ideas to customize it:

• Add veggies: Stir in a cup of frozen peas, diced carrots, or chopped broccoli for added nutrition.
• Swap the protein: Try using cubed turkey or ham for a new twist on the classic dish.
• Go low-carb: Substitute cauliflower rice for the white rice to make this dish keto-friendly.
• Herb it up: Add fresh thyme, rosemary, or oregano to the sauce for an extra layer of flavor.
• Cheesy topping: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese on top during the last 10 minutes of baking for a bubbly, golden crust.

No matter how you make it, this recipe will be a hit with your family. Don’t be afraid to experiment—you just might discover a new favorite combination!

There you have it—an easy, delicious casserole recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your home. From busy weeknights to cozy weekends, this Angel Chicken and Rice Casserole delivers comfort and flavor in every bite.

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