Table Of Content show

Heavenly Angel Chicken and Rice Casserole

If you’re looking for a dish that feels as comforting as a warm hug on a chilly night, you’ve just found it. Angel Chicken and Rice Casserole is everything it promises to be—rich, creamy, and absolutely delectable. Featuring tender chicken and fluffy rice enveloped in a luscious sauce generously adorned with Italian herbs and gooey cheese, it’s a one-dish wonder that caters to everyone. This casserole is ideal for family dinners or potluck gatherings. Let’s dive in and create something truly divine!

Angel Chicken and Rice Casserole Scooped on a Spoon

Why You’ll Love This Angel Chicken and Rice Casserole

Creamy & Comforting: Every mouthful of this casserole delivers a velvety texture that wraps you in comfort.

Hearty & Filling: With tender chicken paired with fluffy rice and gooey melted cheese, it promises to satisfy even the heartiest of appetites, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Family-Friendly: Its mild and savory flavors cater to both kids and adults, making it a universally loved meal.

Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize it to your tastes—switch out cheeses, mix different seasonings, or throw in your favorite veggies!

Ingredients

Cooked Chicken: Use shredded rotisserie chicken or your favorite cooked chicken—it’s the heart of the dish!
Cooked Rice: Long-grain rice works best as it absorbs the sauce while maintaining its slight firmness.
Unsalted Butter & Cream Cheese: These ingredients lend a rich, luxurious texture to the sauce.
Cream of Chicken Soup: This is your secret weapon for adding creaminess and flavor.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic brings aromatic goodness to the casserole.
Italian Dressing Mix: This blend of herbs and spices adds a delightful zing.
Chicken Stock: This helps to moisten the dish and enhances the chicken flavor.
Shredded Cheese: Opt for cheddar or Gruyère to achieve that perfect gooeyness!
Salt, Pepper, & Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: Essential for seasoning and a bit of kick.

How to Make Angel Chicken and Rice Casserole

This hearty casserole delivers pure comfort in every spoonful, and it’s super easy to whip up! Follow these simple steps to create your own heavenly masterpiece:

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cream the Base

In a mixing bowl, beat together the butter and cream cheese until they are smooth and well combined. Then, stir in the cream of chicken soup, minced garlic, and Italian dressing mix.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Next, mix in the chicken stock, chicken, cooked rice, and one cup of shredded cheese. Stir everything together to ensure even distribution.

Step 4: Season and Assemble

Add salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes according to your taste. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Cover the dish with foil that has been lightly sprayed with cooking spray. Bake for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and allow the casserole to bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until it’s bubbling and golden.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

After baking, let it cool for about 10 minutes. Just before serving, sprinkle some parsley on top, and dig in while it’s warm!

A Serving of Angel Chicken and Rice Casserole on a Plate

Tips for the Best Angel Chicken and Rice Casserole

This dish is my go-to for hearty meals without spending hours in the kitchen! Here are some tips to ensure your casserole turns out perfectly every time:

Avoid Instant Rice: Instant rice will cook too quickly and may turn mushy. Stick with long-grain white rice, jasmine, or basmati.
Save Time: Store-bought rotisserie chicken is a quick and flavorful alternative to homemade poached chicken.
Meat Preference: White or dark meat, either works perfectly! Choose according to your preference.
Shred Your Cheese: For the best melting quality, grate cheese from a block instead of using pre-shredded cheese.
Let it Rest: Allow the casserole to sit for about 10 minutes before serving to help thicken the sauce.

Variations to Consider

This recipe is incredibly adaptable. Feel free to customize it to suit your tastes! Here are some ideas:

Add a Crunchy Topping: Mix crushed crackers or breadcrumbs with melted butter and cheese, then sprinkle on top during the last 10 minutes of baking.
Customize Your Add-ins: Consider adding frozen veggies, different cheese varieties, or even some heat with jalapeños or extra red pepper flakes.
Try Different Proteins: Don’t want chicken? Feel free to replace it with shrimp, crab, turkey, or veggies like zucchini or mushrooms!
Substitute Soups: If you’re out of cream of chicken soup, try using cream of mushroom or cream of celery instead.
Low-Carb Option: You can use cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice for a lower-carb meal.
Make Ahead of Time: Prepare the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake it. Just add 10 minutes to the baking time.

Angel Chicken and Rice Casserole Topped with Fresh Herbs

How to Store

If you find yourself with leftovers, no worries—this casserole keeps quite well!

To Store: Cover and refrigerate within two hours of cooking. It will last for about 2-3 days.

To Freeze: Wrap leftovers tightly with plastic wrap and foil or place in an airtight container. The casserole can be frozen for up to three months. Make sure to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating—avoid refreezing.

To Reheat: Cover the casserole and bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes. For individual portions, microwave them for 2-3 minutes, lightly covered.