Perfect Angel Chicken And Rice Casserole Recipe

Heavenly Angel Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe for Your Soul

Comfort takes on a heavenly dimension with this angel chicken and rice casserole that promises pure culinary magic.

Soft, tender chicken mingles beautifully with creamy rice in a dish that feels like a warm embrace.

Delicate layers of flavor merge seamlessly, creating a meal that whispers home and happiness.

Weeknight dinners demand simple yet satisfying solutions, and this recipe delivers with understated elegance.

Mild seasonings complement the rich, smooth sauce that coats each morsel of succulent meat and fluffy rice.

Weekends or busy evenings call for meals that nourish both body and soul – this casserole does exactly that.

Let this recipe become your new go-to comfort classic that everyone will request again and again.

Why Angel Chicken And Rice Casserole Is A Family Favorite

Why Angel Chicken And Rice Casserole Is A Family Favorite
  • Streamline Cooking Process: Minimal prep work and straightforward steps make this recipe perfect for busy home cooks who want delicious meals without complex techniques.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: Creamy sauce and tender chicken create a universally loved dish that satisfies different taste preferences, making it ideal for family dinners or potlucks.
  • Versatile Meal Solution: Easily adaptable recipe that works for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or casual gatherings, providing a hearty and filling main course with simple ingredients.
  • One-Pan Convenience: Combines protein, sauce, and rice in a single baking dish, reducing cleanup time and making it a stress-free cooking experience for anyone wanting a hassle-free meal.

Ingredients For Angel Chicken And Rice Casserole

Main Protein:
  • Chicken Breasts: A tender and lean protein that serves as the primary component of the casserole.
Sauce Ingredients:
  • Cream Cheese: Adds a rich and creamy texture to the sauce.
  • Golden Mushroom Soup, Cream of Chicken Soup: Provide a savory base and enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
  • Italian Dressing Mix: Introduces a zesty and herbal seasoning to the sauce.
  • Chicken Broth: Helps to thin the sauce and add extra depth of flavor.
Cooking Fats:
  • Olive Oil, Butter: Create a perfect searing environment for the chicken and add richness to the dish.
Rice and Garnish:
  • Cooked Rice: Serves as a hearty base that absorbs the delicious sauce.
  • Fresh Chopped Parsley: Adds a fresh, bright garnish and a pop of color to the finished casserole.

How To Bake Angel Chicken And Rice Casserole

How To Bake Angel Chicken And Rice Casserole

Step 1: Warm Up The Cooking Space

Crank the oven to a toasty 350F (175C). Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and give it a quick spray or butter rub to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Sizzle The Chicken

Heat up a large skillet with olive oil and butter. Drop the chicken breasts into the pan and cook until they turn a beautiful golden brown.

Flip them around every few minutes to ensure even cooking on both sides.

Step 3: Create The Magical Sauce

Grab a mixing bowl and toss in these delightful ingredients:
  • Cream cheese
  • Golden mushroom soup
  • Cream of chicken soup
  • Italian dressing mix
  • Chicken broth

Whisk everything together until the mixture looks smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Layer The Chicken And Sauce

Place the golden-brown chicken breasts into the prepared baking dish. Pour the dreamy sauce mixture all over the chicken, making sure every inch is covered.

Step 5: Bake To Perfection

Cover the dish with foil and slide it into the preheated oven. Let it bake for 35-40 minutes until the chicken is tender and cooked through.

Step 6: Add The Rice

Pull the dish out of the oven and gently mix in the cooked rice, letting it soak up all those delicious sauce flavors.

Step 7: Garnish And Serve

Sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and fresh taste.

Serve the casserole piping hot and watch everyone’s eyes light up!

Tips For Angel Chicken And Rice Casserole

  • Swap chicken breasts with chicken thighs for a juicier, more flavorful dish that stays tender during baking.
  • Replace cream cheese with Greek yogurt to reduce calories and add a tangy protein boost while maintaining creamy texture.
  • Use brown rice instead of white rice for added fiber and nutritional value, which complements the rich sauce perfectly.
  • Prepare this casserole ahead of time by assembling everything except rice, then refrigerate and add rice just before baking for maximum convenience.
  • Add sautéed mushrooms or diced bell peppers to increase vegetable content and create additional depth of flavor in the casserole.

Flavorful Twists For Angel Chicken And Rice Casserole

  • Vegetarian Delight: Replace chicken with firm tofu or plant-based chicken alternatives, using vegetable broth for a meatless version.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Swap cream of chicken soup with homemade cream sauce, use gluten-free Italian dressing mix, and choose gluten-free rice.
  • Spicy Southwest Remix: Add diced green chilies, replace Italian dressing with taco seasoning, and top with pepper jack cheese for a zesty kick.
  • Mediterranean Inspired: Substitute chicken with grilled Mediterranean-style chicken, use Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese, and add sun-dried tomatoes and oregano.

What To Serve With Angel Chicken And Rice Casserole

  • Cozy Family Dinner Centerpiece: Serve this hearty casserole as a comforting main dish that brings everyone together around the table, perfect for weeknight meals or weekend gatherings.
  • Potluck Party Showstopper: Transport the casserole in a warm serving dish to impress friends and family at community gatherings, highlighting its creamy texture and delicious flavor combination.
  • Meal Prep Champion: Divide the casserole into individual containers for easy lunch portions throughout the week, ensuring a delicious and convenient meal that saves time and effort.
  • Elegant Side Pairing: Complement the casserole with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables to create a balanced and nutritious meal that adds freshness to the rich, creamy dish.

How To Store Angel Chicken And Rice Casserole

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, ensuring the chicken and rice are completely cooled before sealing.
  • Transfer the casserole to shallow, portion-sized containers to help it cool faster and prevent bacterial growth.
  • Wrap the container tightly with plastic wrap or use a lid with a tight seal to maintain freshness and prevent moisture loss.

FAQs

  • Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work great and can be even more flavorful. Just adjust cooking time to ensure they’re fully cooked through.

  • Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Absolutely! This casserole reheats well and stays delicious for 3-4 days when stored in the refrigerator. Perfect for busy weeknights.

  • Do I need any special kitchen tools for this recipe?

No special equipment needed. Just a skillet, mixing bowl, and 9×13-inch baking dish will do the trick. Basic kitchen tools work perfectly.

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Perfect Angel Chicken And Rice Casserole Recipe

Perfect Angel Chicken And Rice Casserole Recipe


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4.9 from 27 reviews

  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Hearty midwestern angel chicken and rice casserole delivers comfort on a plate with creamy ranch-infused chicken nestled over fluffy rice. Simple ingredients create a satisfying meal families will enjoy together.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Proteins:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Dairy and Creamy Components:

  • 1 (8 ounces / 226 grams) package cream cheese, softened
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Flavor and Base Ingredients:

  • 1 can condensed golden mushroom soup
  • 1 can condensed cream of chicken soup
  • 1 packet dry Italian salad dressing mix
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 3 cups cooked white rice
  • Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Warm the oven to 350F (175C) and prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
  2. Create a golden sear on chicken breasts in a skillet with olive oil and butter over medium heat, cooking approximately 3-4 minutes per side until nicely browned.
  3. Craft a luxurious sauce by whisking cream cheese, golden mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, Italian dressing mix, and chicken broth until completely smooth and well-incorporated.
  4. Nestle the seared chicken breasts into the prepared baking dish, then generously pour the creamy sauce evenly across the meat.
  5. Shield the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 35-40 minutes, ensuring chicken reaches perfect tenderness and is thoroughly cooked.
  6. Carefully remove the casserole from the oven and gently fold in pre-cooked rice, allowing the grains to absorb the rich, creamy sauce.
  7. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a vibrant finishing touch and serve immediately while warm and inviting.

Notes

  • Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a leaner protein option that cooks evenly and absorbs flavors quickly.
  • Swap golden mushroom soup with cream of mushroom for a more traditional taste profile if preferred.
  • Experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary to enhance the casserole’s aromatic depth and personalize the flavor.
  • For gluten-free adaptation, replace Italian dressing mix with gluten-free seasoning blend and use cornstarch instead of traditional thickeners.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 524 kcal
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 960 mg
  • Fat: 26 g
  • Saturated Fat: 11 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 38 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 37 g
  • Cholesterol: 110 mg
John Conley

John Conley

Founder & Culinary Storyteller

Expertise

Recipe Development, Culinary Writing, Home Cooking Techniques, Seasonal Ingredient Utilization​

Education

Lane Community College, Eugene, OR
​Certificate in Culinary Arts
Focused on foundational cooking techniques, kitchen safety, and menu planning.

​Gotham Writers Workshop, New York, NY
Course in Food Writing
Explored the art of crafting engaging culinary narratives and recipe development.


John grew up where food meant connection: big bowls, warm kitchens, and meals that told a story. After earning his Certificate in Culinary Arts from Lane Community College and diving deep into food writing at Gotham Writers Workshop, he found his calling: turning everyday recipes into something worth savoring.
At The Liffey, John’s focus is all about crafting dishes that feel easy, honest, and full of heart.

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