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Creamy Angel Chicken and Rice Casserole

Creamy Angel Chicken and Rice Casserole

Creamy Angel Chicken and Rice Casserole is a comforting, easy-to-make dish combining tender chicken, creamy mushroom sauce, and savory rice. Perfect for family dinners or casual get-togethers, it offers rich flavors, simple ingredients, and versatility to suit various dietary preferences.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 2 cups boneless chicken breasts or thighs (about 1 lb), chopped or shredded

Base

  • 3 cups cooked rice (white or brown)

Sauce

  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
  • 1/2 cup sour cream or cream cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme or 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Vegetables

  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 celery stalk, diced (optional)
  • 1/2 green bell pepper, diced (optional)

Cheese

  • 1 to 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar or mozzarella (or mixed)

Optional additions

  • Broccoli, carrots, or peas (1 cup, diced)
  • Chili flakes or pepper jack cheese for spice
  • Riced cauliflower as a low-carb rice substitute

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Season chicken breasts or thighs with salt, pepper, and herbs. Sear lightly in a skillet over medium-high heat until golden brown on both sides to lock in juices and add flavor. Remove from heat and chop or shred into bite-sized pieces.
  2. Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, add diced onion, garlic, celery, and green bell pepper. Cook until soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes, building a savory base for the casserole.
  3. Combine Sauce Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, stir together the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream or cream cheese, salt, pepper, and herbs until smooth and creamy.
  4. Assemble the Casserole: In a large baking dish, gently combine cooked rice, sautéed vegetables, chicken pieces, and the creamy sauce. Mix thoroughly to distribute ingredients evenly. Top the mixture with shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese.
  5. Bake to Perfection: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole for 30-40 minutes until it is bubbly and the cheese is melted and golden brown. Let rest for a few minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Notes

  • Use freshly cooked, drier rice to avoid a soggy casserole.
  • Don’t skip searing the chicken; it enhances flavor deeply.
  • Let the casserole rest after baking for cleaner slices and better flavor.
  • Mixing cheddar and mozzarella gives a richer, creamier topping.
  • Adjust seasonings after baking as needed.

Nutrition

Keywords: Creamy chicken casserole, chicken and rice bake, comfort food casserole, easy family dinner, one dish meal