Angel Chicken and Rice Casserole

Angel Chicken and Rice Casserole is a delightful dish that perfectly blends savory flavors with creamy textures. With golden-brown cheese melted on top and tender chicken nestled in a bed of fluffy rice, this comforting meal is visually appealing and completely satisfying. It’s perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or cozy weeknight dinners that call for a bit of soul-warming goodness.

This dish boasts a symphony of flavors that will captivate your taste buds from the very first bite. As the chicken bakes in the casserole, the aromas waft through your kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around the table. In this article, you’ll find details on why this recipe is a must-try, along with guidelines for preparation, serving suggestions, and tips for customizing it. Let’s get started on making this fabulous comfort food!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh ingredients enhances the flavor and nutrition of the dish.
2. Ease of Preparation: With simple steps, you can throw this casserole together quickly.
3. Nutrition: Packed with protein and carbs, it’s a hearty meal for everyone.
4. Versatility: You can easily modify ingredients based on your preferences.
5. Presentation: The golden cheese topping makes for an eye-catching main dish.

This recipe is bound to be a favorite for your next meal!

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total time: 1 hour
• Preparation time: 15 minutes
• Cooking time: 45 minutes
  (Note that times may vary.)

Ingredients You’ll Need

Start by selecting 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded, and gather the rest of the ingredients: 1 cup rice (white or brown), 1 can cream of chicken soup, 1 cup chicken broth, 1 cup sour cream, 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella), 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, salt and pepper to taste, 1 tablespoon olive oil, and breadcrumbs for topping (optional).

Main Protein

• Typically, cooked chicken is used for its great flavor and protein content. You can shred rotisserie chicken or boil your own.
• Prepare by shredding the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
• If you’re looking for an alternative, turkey or shredded pork can work well, too.
• Ensure your chicken is properly cooked to avoid any food safety issues.

Starch/Rice

• You can use either white rice for a softer texture or brown rice for a nutty flavor and extra fiber.
• For preparation, just measure out 1 cup before adding it to the casserole.
• If you’re looking for an alternative, quinoa or cauliflower rice adds variety.
• Make sure to adjust cooking times if using brown rice, as it takes longer to cook.

Liquids/Dairy

• Cream of chicken soup adds creaminess and flavor, while chicken broth enhances moistness.
• Combine soup and broth in a bowl before mixing.
• If you’re looking for an alternative, you could use cream of mushroom soup or vegetable broth.
• When substituting, ensure the taste aligns with your flavor preferences.

Seasoning/Spice Blend

• Garlic and onion powder elevate the flavors, creating a beautiful aroma during cooking.
• Simply mix these powders into the other ingredients.
• If you’re looking for an alternative, fresh minced garlic and chopped onions work well.
• Be cautious with salt, especially if using canned soup, which is often salty.

Aromatics & Vegetables

• While this recipe doesn’t call for additional vegetables, you could easily incorporate peas, carrots, or bell peppers for color and nutrition.
• Feel free to sauté these briefly before adding them to the mix.
• If you’re looking for an alternative, consider frozen mixed vegetables for convenience.
• Remember that cooking times may vary if you add raw ingredients.

Optional Finishing Ingredients

• Breadcrumbs sprinkled on top create a lovely crunch.
• Mix them with a bit of olive oil for added flavor before topping the casserole.
• If you’re looking for an alternative, crushed crackers or panko work nicely as well.
• Use as much or as little as you like, depending on your texture preference.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Creating this one-pan casserole couldn’t be easier! Here’s how to prepare it in just a few simple steps.

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, rice, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well to mix all ingredients thoroughly.

Step 3: Transfer to Baking Dish

Pour the mixture into the greased baking dish. Spread it evenly, ensuring every scoop has the perfect balance of flavors.

Step 4: Add Cheese

Sprinkle the shredded cheese generously over the top of the mixture. This will create a beautiful cheesy crust as it bakes.

Step 5: Top with Breadcrumbs

If using, add a light layer of breadcrumbs over the cheese. This will give your casserole a delightful crunch.

Step 6: Bake It

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown. You’ll know it’s ready when the edges are bubbly.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to settle, making every bite delicious.

How to Serve

1. Presentation: Serve the casserole directly from the baking dish for a cozy feel.
2. Accompaniments: Pair it with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for balance.
3. Portions: Cut into generous squares for hearty servings that satisfy.
4. Beverage Pairing: Enjoy with a glass of iced tea or a light white wine.

This dish is sure to impress, making it a fabulous addition to your dinner rotation!

Additional Tips

• For an extra flavor boost, try adding cooked bacon or sautéed mushrooms to the mix.
• Customize it by adding your favorite vegetables for added nutrition and taste.
• Serve with a side of warm bread or rolls to soak up any leftover sauce.

Recipe Variations

1. Italian Twist: Add Italian seasoning and use mozzarella cheese for a different flavor profile.
2. Southwestern Style: Mix in black beans and corn, topped with pepper jack cheese for a spicy kick.
3. Herb-Infused: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to elevate the flavor and freshness.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: It’s best to freeze the casserole unbaked. Wrap well and store for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake from frozen, adding extra time if needed.

Special Equipment

1. Large mixing bowl
2. Baking dish
3. Measuring cups and spoons
4. Spoon or spatula
5. Aluminum foil (optional)

FAQ’s

1. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen cooked chicken. Just ensure it’s fully thawed and heated through before mixing.

2. Is this recipe suitable for dietary restrictions?
It can be adjusted to suit various diets by using gluten-free soup and low-fat dairy products.

3. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble it the night before and bake it when you’re ready to serve.

4. How can I customize the flavors?
Feel free to experiment with different cheese types or add spices according to your taste preferences.

5. Can I use alternative cooking methods?
Yes, you can cook this casserole in a slow cooker on low for 4-6 hours or until hot and bubbly.

Conclusion

Angel Chicken and Rice Casserole is a comforting and delicious choice for family meals or gatherings. Packed with flavors, this dish offers nutrition and warmth in every bite. Its ease of preparation makes it a favorite for busy nights, and its beautiful presentation makes it perfect for special occasions. Dive into this recipe and enjoy a satisfying meal tonight!

Angel Chicken and Rice Casserole

A delightful dish that blends savory flavors with creamy textures, featuring chicken, rice, and a golden cheese topping.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 45 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Servings: 6 servings

Course: dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 450

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded Shred rotisserie chicken or boil your own.
• 1 cup rice (white or brown) Adjust cooking times if using brown rice.
• 1 can cream of chicken soup Alternatively, use cream of mushroom soup.
• 1 cup chicken broth Vegetable broth can also be used.
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder Substitute with fresh minced garlic if preferred.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder Fresh chopped onions can be used.
• to taste salt and pepper Be cautious with salt, especially if using canned soup.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil For greasing the baking dish.
• to taste breadcrumbs for topping (optional) Mix with olive oil for added flavor.

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish with olive oil.
2. In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, rice, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well to mix all ingredients thoroughly.
3. Pour the mixture into the greased baking dish and spread it evenly.

Cooking

1. Sprinkle the shredded cheese generously over the top of the mixture.
2. Add a light layer of breadcrumbs over the cheese if using.
3. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.

Serving

1. Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

For an extra flavor boost, add cooked bacon or sautéed mushrooms, or customize it with your favorite vegetables.