If you’re looking for a creamy, flavorful, and satisfying meal, this Creamy Angel Chicken Rice Casserole is the perfect dish! Packed with tender chicken, creamy sauce, and fluffy rice, this recipe is a family favorite that’s easy to prepare. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this casserole will delight everyone at the table.
Why You’ll Love Angel Chicken Rice Casserole
- Simple and Quick: This dish requires minimal prep and is oven-baked to perfection.
- Rich and Creamy: The combination of cream cheese, sour cream, and broth creates a luxurious sauce.
- Perfect for Leftovers: It reheats well, making it ideal for meal prep.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike love the comforting flavors.
Ingredients For Angel Chicken Rice Casserole
To make this Creamy Angel Chicken Rice Casserole, you’ll need:
the Chicken Mixture:
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie or homemade)
- 1 cup uncooked rice (long-grain or jasmine)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
the Topping:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (for a crispy texture)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Step-by-Step Guide: How to make Angel Chicken Rice Casserole
1: Prepare the Casserole Mixture
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, mix together the shredded chicken, uncooked rice, chicken broth, heavy cream, sour cream, cream cheese, and cream of chicken soup.
- Add the garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and Italian seasoning. Stir until well combined.
2: Assemble the Casserole
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
- In a small bowl, mix together mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, and melted butter.
- Sprinkle the topping evenly over the casserole.
3: Bake to Perfection
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the rice is fully cooked.
- Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Pro Tips for the Best Angel Chicken Rice Casserole
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: It saves time and adds extra flavor.
- Adjust the Creaminess: If you want it extra creamy, add more heavy cream or an extra ounce of cream cheese.
- Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper.
- Customize Your Cheese: Experiment with different cheese blends like Monterey Jack or Gouda.
- Add Veggies: Mix in peas, mushrooms, or spinach for extra nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy casserole pairs beautifully with:
- A crisp green salad
- Steamed or roasted vegetables
- Garlic bread for extra indulgence
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready, bake as directed, adding an extra 5-10 minutes.
2. Can I freeze Creamy Angel Chicken Rice Casserole?
Absolutely! Freeze it before baking for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as instructed.
3. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven at 350°F (175°C) until warm.
4. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time as brown rice takes longer to cook. Add an extra 10-15 minutes of baking time and check for doneness.
5. What can I use instead of cream of chicken soup?
You can make a homemade version by mixing 1 cup chicken broth with 1/2 cup heavy cream and 1 tablespoon flour, cooking until thickened.
This Creamy Angel Chicken Rice Casserole is the perfect balance of comfort and flavor. Try it today, and let us know how you like it! Happy cooking! 🍽️