Angel Chicken And Rice Casserole Recipe

The Heavenly Angel Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe You’ll Love

Tucking into a comforting angel chicken and rice casserole brings memories of warm kitchen gatherings.

Creamy textures mingle with tender chicken pieces nestled among fluffy rice grains.

Weeknight dinners demand simple yet satisfying meals that everyone loves.

Hearty ingredients combine effortlessly in this classic one-pan wonder.

Weekends or busy evenings call for minimal prep and maximum flavor.

Cheesy, golden-topped goodness promises a delightful meal that feels like a loving embrace.

Scoop up a portion and savor every delicious bite.

FAQs

  • Can I use different types of rice in this casserole?

Yes, you can substitute long-grain white rice with brown rice or wild rice, but adjust cooking time and liquid amounts accordingly to ensure proper rice tenderness.

  • Is it okay to use frozen chicken breasts?

Fresh chicken is recommended, but if using frozen chicken, thaw completely and pat dry before placing in the casserole to prevent excess moisture and ensure even cooking.

  • How can I make this dish healthier?

Replace cream soups with low-sodium versions, use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, and choose reduced-fat Parmesan cheese to lower the calorie and fat content.

Angel Chicken and Rice Casserole Insights

  • Conquer Complexity with Ease: This chicken Parmesan recipe breaks down intimidating cooking steps into simple, manageable actions that even beginner cooks can master confidently.
  • Create Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this classic dish delivers restaurant-quality flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds with its crispy exterior and melted cheese topping.
  • Versatile Meal Maker: Adaptable to various sides like pasta, salad, or roasted vegetables, this recipe offers flexibility for different dietary preferences and meal combinations without compromising on taste.
  • Quick Kitchen Magic: From preparation to serving, this chicken Parmesan transforms basic ingredients into a delicious meal that looks and tastes much more sophisticated than the actual cooking process requires.

Ingredients for Angel Chicken and Rice Casserole

Main Protein:
  • Chicken Breasts: The tender and lean protein source that forms the core of this hearty casserole.
Base and Binding Ingredients:
  • White Rice: The foundation of the casserole that absorbs the creamy sauce and provides a satisfying texture.
  • Cream of Mushroom Soup, Cream of Chicken Soup: Creamy condensed soups that create a rich, smooth sauce and enhance the overall flavor.
  • Chicken Broth: Adds extra moisture and deepens the chicken flavor throughout the dish.
  • Sour Cream: Contributes a tangy richness and helps create a creamy, smooth sauce.
Seasoning and Flavor Enhancers:
  • Parmesan Cheese: Provides a salty, nutty flavor that complements the creamy sauce.
  • Garlic Powder, Onion Powder: Add depth and aromatic background notes to the casserole.
  • Salt, Pepper: Basic seasonings that balance and highlight the other flavors.
Optional Garnish:
  • Fresh Parsley: A bright, fresh herb that adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness to the finished dish.

How to Make Angel Chicken and Rice

Step 1: Prepare Baking Workspace

Warm up the oven to 350F. Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and give it a light coating of cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Create Rice Foundation

Spread uncooked rice across the bottom of the baking dish in an even layer.

Step 3: Whip Up Creamy Sauce

Combine the following ingredients in a mixing bowl:
  • Cream of mushroom soup
  • Cream of chicken soup
  • Chicken broth
  • Sour cream
  • Parmesan cheese
  • Garlic powder
  • Onion powder
  • Salt
  • Black pepper

Stir everything until the mixture looks smooth and well blended.

Step 4: Layer Chicken and Sauce

Arrange chicken breasts directly on top of the rice layer. Pour the creamy sauce evenly over the chicken and rice, making sure everything gets a good coating.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Cover the entire dish with aluminum foil. Slide into the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes.

The dish is ready when chicken is fully cooked and rice has become tender.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Pull the casserole out of the oven and let it sit for a few minutes.

This allows the dish to settle and makes serving easier. Sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and extra flavor if you’d like.

Key Tips for Angel Chicken and Rice

  • Opt for long-grain white rice to ensure perfect texture and prevent mushiness during baking.
  • Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts of uniform thickness for even cooking and juicy results.
  • Replace cream soups with homemade versions for a healthier, lower-sodium alternative if desired.
  • Check chicken's internal temperature reaches 165°F using a meat thermometer to guarantee food safety.
  • Sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese on top during the last 10 minutes of baking for a crispy, golden crust.

Flavorful Variations for Angel Chicken and Rice

  • Seafood Sensation: Replace chicken with white fish fillets like cod or tilapia, and swap cream of chicken soup with cream of celery for a lighter oceanic version.
  • Spicy Southwest Style: Add diced green chilies, cayenne pepper, and swap Parmesan for pepper jack cheese to create a zesty southwestern flavor profile.
  • Veggie Power Boost: Mix in chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, and spinach for extra nutrition and color, using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
  • Mediterranean Magic: Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes, crumbled feta cheese, and dried oregano to transform the casserole with Mediterranean-inspired ingredients.

Serving Ideas for Angel Chicken and Rice

  • Serve alongside steamed green beans or roasted broccoli for extra nutrition and color contrast.
  • Pair with a crisp garden salad to balance the creamy casserole's richness.
  • Add buttered dinner rolls or garlic toast to complete the hearty meal experience.
  • Sprinkle extra fresh parsley or chives on top for a bright, fresh garnish.
  • Shred remaining chicken and transform into delicious lunch wraps the next day.
  • Mix cold leftovers with additional broth to create a creamy chicken soup variation.
  • Serve in individual ceramic ramekins for a sophisticated family-style dinner presentation.

Storing Angel Chicken and Rice Safely

  • Store leftover casserole in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keep in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, ensuring maximum freshness and food safety.
  • Transfer cooled casserole to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Freeze flat for up to 3 months, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
  • Warm individual portions in the microwave, stirring occasionally. Alternatively, reheat in a preheated 350F oven covered with foil for 15-20 minutes until heated through completely.
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Angel Chicken And Rice Casserole Recipe

Angel Chicken And Rice Casserole Recipe


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4.5 from 20 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Midwestern comfort shines through this angel chicken and rice casserole, blending creamy textures with hearty ingredients. Generous portions and simple preparation make this dish perfect for family gatherings and weeknight dinners you’ll want to share.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
  • 1 cup rice (long-grain, uncooked)
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
  • 1 can (10.75 oz/305 g) cream of chicken soup
  • 1 can (10.75 oz/305 g) cream of mushroom soup
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • Salt and pepper (to taste)
  • Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the oven at 350F (175C) and apply a light grease coating to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Create an even layer of uncooked rice across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
  3. Combine cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, sour cream, Parmesan cheese, and seasonings in a mixing bowl, whisking until smooth and fully integrated.
  4. Arrange chicken breasts directly on top of the rice layer, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
  5. Gently pour the creamy soup mixture over the chicken and rice, using a spatula to spread it uniformly and cover all surfaces.
  6. Seal the baking dish completely with aluminum foil to trap moisture and heat.
  7. Bake for 50-60 minutes, monitoring until chicken reaches proper internal temperature and rice becomes tender and fluffy.
  8. Remove from oven and allow the casserole to rest for 5-7 minutes, enabling flavors to meld and sauce to slightly thicken.
  9. Optional: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a vibrant garnish before serving.

Notes

  • Check rice type carefully as different varieties might need adjusted liquid ratios for perfect texture.
  • Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for faster cooking and easier serving.
  • Consider low-sodium soup options to control salt content for health-conscious diners.
  • Add extra vegetables like mushrooms or peas directly into the rice layer for nutritional boost and flavor complexity.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 55 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 420 kcal
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 780 mg
  • Fat: 16 g
  • Saturated Fat: 8 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.3 g
  • Carbohydrates: 28 g
  • Fiber: 1.5 g
  • Protein: 38 g
  • Cholesterol: 110 mg
Jess Martinez

Jess Martinez

Contributing Recipe Writer & Nutrition Consultant

Expertise

Southwestern and Latin American cooking, Nutritional analysis and healthy recipe planning, Cultural food traditions, Modifying traditional dishes for better health

Education

Santa Fe Community College
Certificate in Culinary Arts

Focused on mastering the flavors and cooking methods of traditional Southwestern cuisine.


Jess’s love for bold, homegrown flavors led her straight into the world of Southwestern cooking and cultural nutrition.
After completing her Certificate in Culinary Arts at Santa Fe Community College, she made it her mission to show that good-for-you food can still taste incredible.
At saltytart.com, Jess shares vibrant, health-conscious recipes with roots in tradition but a fresh, modern twist. When she’s not testing new recipes, you’ll find her at local growers’ markets, tending her herb garden, or digging into food history books.

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