Nothing quite hits the spot like a comforting casserole filled with tender chicken, creamy cheese, and hearty rice, which is exactly why the Angel Chicken Rice Casserole Recipe has earned a special place on my dinner table. This dish marries simple ingredients with rich, savory flavors that feel both luxurious and homey. It’s a winning combination that’s perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or whenever you crave a warm, satisfying meal that everyone will love. Trust me, once you try this Angel Chicken Rice Casserole Recipe, it might just become your new favorite go-to comfort food.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward and easy to find, yet each one plays a vital role in building the perfect texture and flavor for the casserole. From the tender bite-sized chicken pieces to the creamy blend of cheeses and seasoning, they all come together beautifully in this down-to-earth dish.
- Olive oil: Adds a subtle richness and helps to cook the chicken evenly without sticking.
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts: The main protein providing juicy, tender bites throughout the casserole.
- Garlic powder: Brings a gentle but flavorful aroma and depth to the chicken.
- Onion powder: Enhances the savory taste without overpowering the dish.
- Salt: Elevates all the ingredients’ natural flavors perfectly.
- Black pepper: Adds a subtle hint of heat for balance.
- Condensed cream of chicken soup: The creamy base that ties everything together with a luscious texture.
- Cream cheese (softened): Brings a velvety creaminess that makes the casserole irresistibly smooth.
- Low-sodium chicken broth: Keeps the dish moist and helps blend the flavors harmoniously.
- Italian dressing mix: Infuses a zesty, herby punch that complements the chicken and cheese marvelously.
- Cooked white rice: Provides a tender, fluffy foundation that soaks up all the creamy goodness.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts to gooey perfection, creating a melty, delicious top layer.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty flavor that elevates the overall taste.
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional): A fresh, bright garnish that finishes the casserole beautifully.
How to Make Angel Chicken Rice Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Toss in the bite-sized chicken pieces and season them with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Cook the chicken until it’s no longer pink inside, which usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes. This step is where that deliciously savory base for your casserole begins—perfectly seasoned and tender chicken is key.
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Sauce
In a large bowl, whisk together the condensed cream of chicken soup, softened cream cheese, low-sodium chicken broth, and Italian dressing mix until you have a smooth, luscious sauce. This mixture is where the casserole gets its irresistible creaminess and those delightful Italian-inspired flavors.
Step 3: Combine Chicken and Rice
Stir the cooked chicken and the cooked white rice into your creamy sauce, mixing gently to combine everything evenly. This ensures every spoonful is packed with that perfect blend of protein, starch, and that dreamy, cheesy sauce.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Pour the entire mixture into a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish. Evenly sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese on top. Cover the dish with foil to keep the moisture in and bake at 350°F for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is melted, golden, and bubbling with mouthwatering goodness.
Step 5: Rest and Garnish
Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes after baking. This little pause lets everything set up perfectly, making it easier to serve and enjoy. If you want, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and a subtle fresh note.
How to Serve Angel Chicken Rice Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is more than just a pretty garnish here—it adds a mild herbaceous brightness that cuts through the creamy richness. For an added touch, a sprinkle of extra Parmesan or a dash of crushed red pepper flakes can also add a fun hint of texture and flavor.
Side Dishes
This casserole is wonderfully filling on its own but pairs beautifully with crisp, green salads or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans for a balanced meal. For something heartier, roasted root vegetables or garlic bread also make great companions.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion or to impress guests, serve the casserole in individual ramekins with a fresh herb sprig on top. You could also turn leftovers into hearty stuffed peppers by spooning the casserole mixture inside halved sweet bell peppers, then baking until tender and cheesy.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After the casserole cools completely, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This makes for quick, delicious lunches or dinners during the week.
Freezing
You can freeze the casserole either before or after baking. If freezing uncooked, assemble it, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. For baked leftovers, wrap well and freeze for about the same length. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat individual portions in the microwave for a couple of minutes until warmed through, or place the casserole dish in a preheated oven at 350°F covered with foil to prevent drying out. Add a few extra minutes uncovered to revive that melty top layer.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice will add a nuttier flavor and a bit more texture, plus a boost of whole grain nutrition. Just make sure it’s fully cooked before mixing it into the casserole.
Is it okay to use rotisserie chicken?
Yes, using rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut that saves time without sacrificing flavor. Simply chop the meat into bite-sized pieces and skip the cooking step for the chicken.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Definitely! Adding sautéed mushrooms, steamed broccoli, or even peas can bring extra color, nutrition, and texture to the dish without overwhelming its classic comfort food vibe.
What can I substitute for cream cheese?
If you want a lighter option, you can use a mild Greek yogurt or a softened Neufchâtel cheese, which has less fat but still provides creaminess.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To keep it gluten-free, check that the condensed soup and Italian dressing mix contain no gluten ingredients, or use homemade or certified gluten-free versions. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
Final Thoughts
The Angel Chicken Rice Casserole Recipe is such a gem—comforting, creamy, and bursting with flavor, yet incredibly simple to throw together. Whether you need a weekday winner or a cozy dish to share with loved ones, this recipe never disappoints. Give it a try, and I’m sure it will become a beloved classic in your home just as it has in mine!
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Angel Chicken Rice Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Angel Chicken Rice Casserole is a comforting and creamy baked dish featuring tender chicken pieces combined with a cheesy rice mixture and Italian flavors. This hearty casserole is perfect for a family dinner, offering a delicious blend of mozzarella, Parmesan, and creamy chicken soup with a touch of Italian seasoning.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasonings
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Cheese and Sauce
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 packet Italian dressing mix
Rice and Cheese Topping
- 2 cups cooked white rice
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to get it ready for baking the casserole.
- Cook Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and no longer pink inside.
- Prepare Sauce: In a large bowl, whisk together the condensed cream of chicken soup, softened cream cheese, low-sodium chicken broth, and Italian dressing mix until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Combine Ingredients: Stir the cooked chicken and cooked white rice into the sauce mixture, ensuring everything is evenly mixed.
- Assemble Casserole: Pour the chicken and rice mixture into a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish. Evenly sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese on top of the casserole.
- Bake Covered: Cover the casserole dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. This will heat the casserole through and allow the flavors to meld.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese on top is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
- Rest and Garnish: Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes after removing it from the oven. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired before serving.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for a quicker preparation and less cooking time.
- Substitute brown rice or cooked quinoa to make the dish healthier and add more fiber.
- Add sautéed mushrooms, steamed broccoli, or your favorite vegetables to boost nutrition and flavor.
