Angel Chicken And Rice Casserole Recipe

There's something truly comforting about a warm, bubbling casserole straight from the oven. This Angel Chicken and Rice Casserole combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and fluffy rice for a meal that feels like a warm hug. The blend of rich flavors, satisfying textures, and just the right amount of seasoning makes it an instant favorite.

The first time I made this recipe, I was on the hunt for a dish that was as easy to prepare as it was delicious. Since then, it has become my go-to for potlucks, family dinners, and even meal prep. Let me show you why this casserole deserves a spot on your table!

Why You’ll Love This Angel Chicken and Rice Casserole

Get ready to add this dish to your weekly rotation. Angel Chicken and Rice Casserole is more than just a recipe – it’s a solution for busy nights, picky eaters, and comfort food cravings.

• Quick and Easy Prep: With minimal chopping and mixing, this casserole comes together in just 15 minutes before heading into the oven. It’s perfect for those hectic evenings when time is tight.
• Comfort Food at Its Best: Every bite is a harmonious blend of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked rice. It's the ultimate crowd-pleaser.
• One-Dish Wonder: No need to juggle multiple pots and pans. This recipe cooks in a single baking dish, making cleanup a breeze.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep it the night before and bake when you're ready, or freeze it for an effortless dinner down the road.

Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, this casserole is a no-fail choice that everyone will love. Ready to get started?

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this dish comes from its simple yet carefully selected ingredients. Here’s what you need to know about the key components:

• Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe. Slice them into thin cutlets to ensure they cook evenly and stay tender. If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs are an excellent alternative.
• Rice: Long-grain white rice is the base of this casserole, providing a fluffy texture that soaks up all the creamy goodness. Avoid quick-cooking or instant rice, as they won’t hold up during baking.
• Cream of Chicken Soup: This pantry staple creates the base of the sauce, adding a velvety texture and savory flavor. For a lighter option, use a reduced-fat version.
• Angel Hair Pasta: Broken into small pieces, this pasta adds a delightful texture. You can substitute with vermicelli if needed.
• Chicken Broth and White Wine: A mix of chicken broth and dry white wine infuses the casserole with depth and richness. If you’d prefer to skip the wine, use an equal amount of broth.

You’ll also need butter, cream cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic, and Parmesan cheese to round out the flavors. A large baking dish (9x13-inch) is essential to ensure even cooking.

How to Make Angel Chicken and Rice Casserole

This casserole is easier to make than you might think! Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating this delicious dish:

1. Prepare the Chicken and Rice Base
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the uncooked rice evenly across the bottom of your greased baking dish. Arrange the chicken cutlets on top in a single layer, ensuring they’re evenly spaced.
2. Make the Sauce
   In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in the cream of chicken soup, cream cheese, and Italian seasoning, whisking until smooth. Slowly pour in the chicken broth and white wine, mixing until the sauce is creamy and well-blended.
3. Assemble the Casserole
   Pour the sauce over the chicken and rice, making sure everything is covered evenly. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top for an extra layer of flavor.
4. Bake to Perfection
   Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 50-60 minutes. Check at the 50-minute mark to ensure the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through. If needed, bake for an additional 5-10 minutes.
5. Finish and Serve
   Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes after removing it from the oven. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and serve warm.

In just over an hour, you’ll have a dish that tastes like it’s been simmering all day!

Storage Options

This casserole is perfect for leftovers – if there’s any left! Here’s how to store it properly:

• Refrigerator: Transfer the cooled casserole to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: For longer storage, portion the casserole into freezer-safe containers or tightly wrap the entire dish with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months.

When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or water to maintain the creamy consistency. Heat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or use the microwave for single servings.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this casserole is how adaptable it is. Here are some ideas to make it your own:

• Protein Swap: Use shredded rotisserie chicken or leftover turkey for a quicker option.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Cheesy Twist: Add shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese on top before baking for a gooey finish.
• Spice It Up: Mix in a pinch of red pepper flakes or Cajun seasoning for a little kick.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and check the labels on your cream of chicken soup to ensure it’s gluten-free.

Don’t be afraid to experiment – this recipe is incredibly forgiving and versatile!

With its creamy, dreamy texture and flavor-packed layers, Angel Chicken and Rice Casserole is destined to become a staple in your meal rotation. Whether you're feeding a crowd or looking for a cozy dinner, this recipe checks all the boxes. Happy cooking!

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