When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can compete with the creamy, savory goodness of a casserole. And if you’re looking for a recipe that’s both easy to make and utterly delicious, you’ve come to the right place. This Angel Chicken Rice Casserole is the ultimate weeknight dinner solution, combining tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a creamy sauce that will have your family begging for seconds. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this dish is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.
Why You’ll Love This Angel Chicken Rice Casserole
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s talk about why this Angel Chicken Rice Casserole is a must-try:
- Creamy and comforting: The rich, velvety sauce coats every bite, making it the ultimate comfort food.
- Easy to make: With simple ingredients and minimal prep, this casserole is perfect for busy weeknights.
- Crowd-pleaser: Kids and adults alike will love the flavorful combination of chicken, rice, and creamy sauce.
- Versatile: Customize it with your favorite veggies or spices to make it your own.
Table of Contents
Ingredients for Angel Chicken Rice Casserole
To make this heavenly dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked white rice (or brown rice for a healthier twist)
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken works great!)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots (optional, for added veggies)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (for topping)
- 2 tbsp melted butter (for topping)
How to Make Angel Chicken Rice Casserole
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Sauce
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and well combined.
Step 3: Add the Chicken and Rice
Fold in the cooked chicken, cooked rice, and frozen peas and carrots (if using). Mix until everything is evenly coated in the creamy sauce.
Step 4: Layer the Casserole
Transfer the mixture to your prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly, then sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese on top.
Step 5: Add the Crunchy Topping
Combine the breadcrumbs and melted butter in a small bowl, stirring until evenly mixed. Sprinkle this mixture over the cheese layer for a delicious, crispy topping.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the sauce is bubbling around the edges.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
Allow the casserole to rest for about five minutes before serving. For an extra touch, sprinkle fresh chives or parsley on top, then dig in and savor your creamy Angel Chicken Rice Casserole!
Tips for the Perfect Angel Chicken Rice Casserole
- Opt for rotisserie chicken: Using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken not only saves time but also adds a burst of flavor effortlessly.
- Experiment with veggies: Feel free to toss in broccoli, corn, or bell peppers to enhance both the color and nutritional value.
- Prepare in advance: You can assemble the casserole the night before, keep it covered in the fridge, and bake it when you’re ready to serve.
- Double up: This recipe freezes beautifully, so consider making an extra batch to stash away for a future meal.
Why This Recipe Works for Every Occasion
This Angel Chicken Rice Casserole shines because of its adaptability. It’s ideal for:
- Quick weeknight meals: Effortless to prepare and deeply satisfying.
- Gatherings and potlucks: A surefire hit that will have everyone coming back for more.
- Meal prepping: Divide it into portions for easy, ready-to-go lunches.
- Comfort food moments: Warm, creamy, and utterly indulgent—it’s the ultimate pick-me-up.
Creamy Angel Chicken Rice Casserole
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 30
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dinner, Main Course, Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American Comfort Food
Description
Whip up the ultimate comfort food with this creamy Angel Chicken Rice Casserole! Easy, delicious, and perfect for any occasion. Try it tonight!
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked white rice (or brown rice for a healthier twist)
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken works great!)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots (optional, for added veggies)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (for topping)
- 2 tbsp melted butter (for topping)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Sauce
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and well combined.
Step 3: Add the Chicken and Rice
- Fold in the cooked chicken, cooked rice, and frozen peas and carrots (if using). Mix until everything is evenly coated in the creamy sauce.
Step 4: Layer the Casserole
- Transfer the mixture to your prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly, then sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese on top.
Step 5: Add the Crunchy Topping
- Combine the breadcrumbs and melted butter in a small bowl, stirring until evenly mixed. Sprinkle this mixture over the cheese layer for a delicious, crispy topping.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
- Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the sauce is bubbling around the edges.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
- Allow the casserole to rest for about five minutes before serving. For an extra touch, sprinkle fresh chives or parsley on top, then dig in and savor your creamy Angel Chicken Rice Casserole!
Notes
- Opt for rotisserie chicken: Using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken not only saves time but also adds a burst of flavor effortlessly.
- Experiment with veggies: Feel free to toss in broccoli, corn, or bell peppers to enhance both the color and nutritional value.
- Prepare in advance: You can assemble the casserole the night before, keep it covered in the fridge, and bake it when you’re ready to serve.
- Double up: This recipe freezes beautifully, so consider making an extra batch to stash away for a future meal.
Keywords: chicken casserole, rice casserole, creamy chicken bake, easy weeknight dinner, family-friendly casserole, freezer-friendly meal, comfort food recipes
FAQs About Angel Chicken Rice Casserole
Can I use uncooked rice in this recipe?
For the best results, stick to cooked rice to maintain the perfect texture. If you prefer uncooked rice, you’ll need to tweak the liquid content and extend the baking time.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Definitely! Simply swap in gluten-free cream of chicken soup and breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free-friendly.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. When ready to enjoy again, reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole (without baking), wrap it tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before baking.
The Secret to the Creamiest Casserole
The magic of this Angel Chicken Rice Casserole lies in its luscious sauce, crafted from cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and milk. It’s velvety, packed with flavor, and envelops every ingredient in a rich embrace. The blend of cheddar and Parmesan cheeses adds a decadent, cheesy layer that elevates the dish to new heights.
