why make this recipe
Angel Chicken Rice Casserole is a comforting dish that combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and flavorful rice, making it the perfect choice for a family dinner or gathering. It brings together simple ingredients to create a satisfying meal that is both rich and cozy. Plus, it’s a one-dish recipe, which means less hassle and easy cleanup!
how to make Angel Chicken Rice Casserole
Ingredients :
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or unsalted butter
- 1 small onion (finely diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 ½ cups long-grain white rice (uncooked)
- 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 can (10.5 oz / 295 g) cream of chicken soup
- 4 oz (115 g) cream cheese, softened and cubed
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped, optional, for garnish)
Directions :
- Preheat Oven: Set oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil or butter. Add onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until soft. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Prepare Rice Base: Add the uncooked rice to the skillet and stir for 1–2 minutes to coat with oil. Pour in the chicken broth, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Bring to a gentle simmer, then turn off the heat.
- Add Chicken: Spread the rice mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Arrange the chicken pieces evenly over the rice.
- Make Creamy Sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together cream of chicken soup, cream cheese, sour cream, and Parmesan until smooth. Spread this mixture evenly over the chicken.
- Bake: Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked.
- Add Cheese & Finish: Remove foil, sprinkle mozzarella on top, and bake uncovered for another 5–7 minutes until melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Let rest for 5 minutes, garnish with parsley, and serve warm.
how to serve Angel Chicken Rice Casserole
This casserole pairs well with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables. You can also serve it with garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce. For a cozy family meal, serve it right from the baking dish.
how to store Angel Chicken Rice Casserole
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven or microwave until heated through.
tips to make Angel Chicken Rice Casserole
- For added flavor, you can use homemade chicken broth instead of store-bought.
- Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, like peas or mushrooms, to the rice mixture for extra nutrition and taste.
- Adjust the seasoning to your preference to make it more to your liking.
variation
You can try swapping the chicken for cooked sausage, turkey, or even tofu for a vegetarian version. If you like spice, add some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to give it a kick.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time and liquid amount since brown rice requires more time to cook.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble everything in the dish, cover it, and store it in the fridge overnight. Just bake it when you’re ready to eat.
Is there a gluten-free option?
Yes, you can use gluten-free cream of chicken soup and ensure your chicken broth is gluten-free. Just check the labels before using.
Angel Chicken Rice Casserole
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil or butter. Add the diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until soft. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the uncooked rice to the skillet and stir for 1–2 minutes to coat with oil. Pour in the chicken broth, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Bring to a gentle simmer, then turn off the heat.
- Spread the rice mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Arrange the chicken pieces evenly over the rice.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together cream of chicken soup, cream cheese, sour cream, and Parmesan until smooth. Spread this mixture evenly over the chicken.
- Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked.
- Remove foil, sprinkle mozzarella on top, and bake uncovered for another 5–7 minutes until melted and bubbly.
- Let rest for 5 minutes, garnish with parsley, and serve warm.