Introduction:
Angel Chicken Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, blending tender chicken, creamy sauce, and fluffy rice into a hearty, satisfying dish.
With its rich flavors of Parmesan and mozzarella cheese combined with the tangy zest of Italian seasoning, this casserole is a crowd-pleaser perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings.
It’s simple to prepare, yet tastes like a gourmet meal straight from a restaurant. Whether you’re looking for a dish to warm up a cold evening or impress your loved ones, this casserole will quickly become a go-to favorite.
A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a vibrant finishing touch, making it as beautiful as it is delicious.
Ingredients:
1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup of grated mozzarella cheese
1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder
4 chicken breasts
2 tablespoons of butter
1 tablespoon of olive oil
1 packet of Italian dressing mix
1 can (10.5 oz) of cream of mushroom soup
1 cup of chicken broth
1/2 cup of sour cream
2 cups of cooked rice
Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
Preheat the Oven:
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Cook the Chicken:
Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season chicken breasts with black pepper and garlic powder. Sear them in the skillet for 5–7 minutes on each side until golden brown but not fully cooked. Remove the chicken and set aside.
Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the Italian dressing mix, cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, grated Parmesan cheese, and sour cream. Stir until smooth and creamy. Cook for 3–5 minutes over medium-low heat.
Assemble the Casserole:
In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread the cooked rice evenly. Place the seared chicken breasts on top. Pour the sauce over the chicken and rice, ensuring everything is coated evenly.
Add Cheese Topping:
Sprinkle grated mozzarella cheese evenly over the casserole.
Bake the Casserole:
Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the casserole is bubbling.
Garnish and Serve:
If desired, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for added freshness. Serve the casserole hot and enjoy!
Variations and Tips
Variations:
Protein Options:
Swap chicken breasts for chicken thighs for a juicier option.
Use leftover turkey, rotisserie chicken, or even shrimp for a twist.
Grain Alternatives:
Replace white rice with brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for a healthier choice.
Wild rice adds an earthy flavor and chewy texture.
Vegetable Additions:
Incorporate sautéed mushrooms, broccoli, spinach, or peas for added nutrients.
Add a layer of caramelized onions or roasted bell peppers for extra flavor.
Cheese Variations:
Use Gouda, Gruyère, or Monterey Jack for a unique flavor profile.
Add a touch of cream cheese to the sauce for an even creamier texture.
Spice it Up:
Add red pepper flakes, cayenne, or smoked paprika for a kick of heat.
Experiment with herbs like thyme, oregano, or rosemary to enhance the seasoning.
Make it Gluten-Free:
Use gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and Italian dressing mix.
Ensure the broth and rice are certified gluten-free.
Tips:
Cook Chicken Evenly:
Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness before cooking for uniform doneness.
Avoid Soggy Rice:
Use cooked rice that is slightly undercooked to prevent it from becoming mushy.
Ensure the casserole isn’t overly watery by thickening the sauce if needed.
Cheese Perfection:
Shred your own cheese for better melting and flavor; pre-shredded cheese often has anti-caking agents.
Timing Matters:
Don’t overcook the chicken in the pan; it will finish cooking in the oven.
Make Ahead:
Assemble the casserole the night before and refrigerate. Bake it fresh the next day for an easy meal.
Leftover Upgrade:
Transform leftovers into a creamy chicken and rice soup by adding more broth and reheating gently.
These variations and tips will allow you to customize your Angel Chicken Rice Casserole to your taste and create a flawless dish every time!
Let me know how it turns out!
How to Store Angel Chicken Rice Casserole
Refrigeration:
Allow the casserole to cool completely to room temperature to prevent condensation and sogginess.
Transfer leftovers into an airtight container or cover the casserole dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
Freezing:
For longer storage, freeze the casserole.
Portion the casserole into individual servings for easy reheating or freeze the whole dish.
Use freezer-safe containers or wrap the dish tightly with plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil.
Label with the date, and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating Instructions:
From Refrigerated:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Cover the casserole with foil to prevent drying out.
Heat for 20–25 minutes or until the dish is heated through.
Alternatively, microwave individual portions on medium power for 2–3 minutes, stirring halfway.
From Frozen:
Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheat as directed above.
If reheating directly from frozen, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 35–40 minutes, covered with foil, until fully heated.
Pro Tip: Add a small splash of chicken broth or cream when reheating to restore moisture and keep the casserole creamy. Proper storage and reheating will ensure the dish remains flavorful and satisfying!