Angel Chicken Rice Casserole Recipe

If you’re searching for a winning dinner that’s both creamy and comforting with minimal fuss, Angel Chicken Rice Casserole is about to become your new favorite. This cozy casserole marries tender chicken, silky cream cheese, and melty cheeses, all blended with fluffy rice and a hint of Italian flavor. Whether you’re feeding hungry kids or gathering friends, it’s the kind of dish that practically guarantees second helpings. This is a meal you’ll want to keep in your regular rotation — and I can’t wait for you to try it!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s celebrate the beauty of simple ingredients! Every item in this recipe brings something special, from the juiciness of chicken to the irresistible gooey cheese. Together, they transform into a rich, satisfying Angel Chicken Rice Casserole you’ll crave again and again.

• Chicken breasts: Bite-sized pieces cook perfectly and soak up all the creamy, savory flavors.
• Olive oil: Adds richness and ensures your chicken browns to golden, juicy perfection.
• Cream of chicken soup: This is the secret shortcut to luscious, velvety texture in every bite.
• Cream cheese: Softened for easy mixing, it brings luscious, tangy creaminess to the casserole.
• Chicken broth: Helps meld all the flavors and keeps the casserole from drying out.
• Italian dressing mix: Just half a packet adds loads of herbs and a pop of savory zip.
• Black pepper: Enhances the other flavors and adds just a gentle warmth.
• Cooked rice: Choose white or brown—either way, it makes for a fluffy, hearty base.
• Mozzarella cheese: Melts into irresistible stretches of gooey, golden cheese.
• Parmesan cheese: Adds that final kick of salty, nutty flavor right on top.
• Fresh parsley (optional): Pretty and refreshing, it brightens every serving.

How to Make Angel Chicken Rice Casserole

Step 1: Prep Your Baking Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Give your 9×13-inch baking dish a good coat of nonstick spray or a light brush of oil—this makes cleanup a breeze and ensures those cheesy edges won’t stick.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add your chicken pieces and let them brown on all sides, about 5–6 minutes. You’re not looking for totally cooked chicken here—just that lovely golden color. The casserole will finish cooking everything through in the oven!

Step 3: Mix the Creamy Sauce

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, softened cream cheese, chicken broth, Italian dressing mix, and black pepper. Stir this mixture together until it’s smooth and creamy. This decadent sauce is what gives Angel Chicken Rice Casserole its signature comfort.

Step 4: Combine with Rice and Chicken

Now, fold in your cooked rice and browned chicken pieces. Give everything a thorough mix—the sauce should coat every grain of rice and every piece of chicken for that full-on, delicious flavor in every forkful.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Now it’s time for the best part: sprinkle on that shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan. The cheese will bubble up and form a perfectly golden lid as it bakes.

Step 6: Bake to Melty Perfection

Bake in your preheated oven for 25–30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s bubbling at the edges and the cheese on top is melted and lightly golden. Finish with a scatter of chopped parsley if you’d like a little pop of color and freshness.

How to Serve Angel Chicken Rice Casserole

Garnishes

For that finishing touch, sprinkle a handful of bright, chopped fresh parsley on top just before serving. The pop of green looks inviting and adds a hint of freshness that balances the creamy casserole. If you love a touch more flavor, a dusting of black pepper or even a sprinkle of red chili flakes can be lovely too!

Side Dishes

This casserole really shines alongside simple sides. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette, steamed broccoli, or roasted asparagus all make perfect partners, helping lighten up your meal. Warm dinner rolls are also fabulous for soaking up every creamy morsel of Angel Chicken Rice Casserole.

Creative Ways to Present

For a more elegant touch, try baking and serving the casserole in individual ramekins or mini gratin dishes—guests will love their own little portion! Or, layer a scoop inside a puff pastry shell for a showstopper presentation at a brunch or special lunch gathering.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Angel Chicken Rice Casserole keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to store it in a tightly covered dish or airtight container to preserve its creaminess and keep it from drying out.

Freezing

This casserole is a freezer hero! Simply let it cool completely, then wrap portions (or the whole casserole) tightly in foil or freezer-safe wrap. Freeze for up to 2 months. For best texture, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, cover the casserole and warm it in a 350°F oven until it’s hot and bubbly—usually about 20 minutes for a full dish, or 2–3 minutes in the microwave for single servings. Add a splash of broth or milk before reheating if you’d like to restore the sauce’s creaminess.

FAQs

Can I substitute another protein for the chicken?

Absolutely! Cooked turkey, rotisserie chicken, or even chunks of ham are all delicious in this Angel Chicken Rice Casserole. It’s a flexible way to use up leftovers too!

Can I make Angel Chicken Rice Casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the casserole (up to the point of baking), cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready, just pop it in the oven and bake as directed—add a few extra minutes since it will be cold from the fridge.

What type Main Course

Either white or brown rice is great for Angel Chicken Rice Casserole. Just make sure the rice is fully cooked before mixing it in. Leftover rice is perfect for speeding up prep time!

How can I add vegetables to this dish?

It’s easy to give this casserole a veggie boost! Stir in sautéed mushrooms, fresh spinach, thawed peas, or steamed broccoli before baking. They’ll blend right in with all the creamy goodness.

Can I use low-fat ingredients?

Yes, feel free to substitute low-fat cream cheese or reduced-fat shredded cheese if you prefer. The casserole will still be creamy and flavorful, though the texture may be slightly less rich.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you’ll give Angel Chicken Rice Casserole a spot at your table soon. It’s the kind of cozy, crowd-pleasing meal that’s just as perfect for busy weeknights as it is for sharing with friends. Dive in, and enjoy every creamy, cheesy, comforting bite!

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