Angel Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe

If you’re looking for the ultimate cozy dinner that will instantly gather everyone around the table, you have to try Angel Chicken and Rice Casserole. Creamy, cheesy, a little bit tangy, and topped with the most irresistible golden crunch, this is one of those crowd-pleasing meals that feels like an instant classic every time you serve it!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Angel Chicken and Rice Casserole comes together with everyday ingredients, each chosen because it brings something special to the table—tenderness, richness, flavor, or pure comforting nostalgia. Here’s what you need for your new favorite family casserole:

• Cooked Shredded Chicken: Use rotisserie, leftover roast, or even poached chicken—it’s your shortcut to protein-packed goodness.
• Cooked White Rice: Fluffy rice soaks up the creamy sauce perfectly—jasmine or long-grain works beautifully.
• Cream Cheese (8 ounces): Softened cream cheese melts into the sauce, giving super-luxurious texture and a hint of tang.
• Unsalted Butter: Adds old-school richness and keeps that creamy factor high.
• Cream of Chicken Soup: The not-so-secret ingredient for classic flavor and extra silkiness.
• Chicken Broth: Loosens the sauce while layering on even more chicken essence.
• Italian Dressing Mix: This is what brings a boost of herby, zesty intrigue to every bite—it’s subtle but so tasty.
• Panko Breadcrumbs: For unbeatable crunch on top—panko’s light, crispy style makes a huge difference.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Melts lusciously into the topping for extra flavor and classic comfort.
• Salt, Pepper, Oregano & Thyme: Just a few pinches round out the flavor with warmth and a hint of earthiness.

Variations

This dish is a dream for switching things up—Angel Chicken and Rice Casserole is so versatile that you’re welcome to make it your own with what you have on hand, or to suit any picky eaters or dietary goals in your crowd.

• Swap The Protein: Try leftover turkey, ham, or even cooked ground turkey or sausage for a fun twist.
• Add Vegetables: Toss in frozen peas, sautéed mushrooms, or steamed broccoli for color, nutrition, and a heartier casserole.
• Go Gluten Free: Use gluten-free condensed soup and swap panko for gluten-free breadcrumbs—flavor stays top-notch!
• Cheese It Up: Try a blend of cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a little Parmesan for added depth.

How to Make Angel Chicken and Rice Casserole

Step 1: Prep Your Dish and Ingredients

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F and giving your 9×13-inch baking dish a generous coating of nonstick spray. Gather up that cooked shredded chicken and your fluffy white rice, and add them to a large mixing bowl—this sets the stage for your casserole magic.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Sauce

In a separate bowl, use a hand mixer to blend the softened cream cheese and butter until super smooth. Beat in the cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, and Italian dressing mix—the result is a dreamy, flavorful sauce that’s the heart of this casserole.

Step 3: Combine and Assemble

Pour that luscious cream cheese sauce right over the chicken and rice, and stir everything together thoroughly. Scoop the mixture into your prepared baking dish, smoothing the top for even baking.

Step 4: Add the Golden Topping

Mix together the panko breadcrumbs, shredded cheddar, salt, pepper, oregano, and thyme in a bowl. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over your casserole. The topping is what makes every forkful extra special—don’t skimp!

Step 5: Bake and Finish

Cover the casserole with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then take off the foil and bake for another 5–10 minutes, just until the topping is golden brown and crispy. Serve it up while it’s bubbling and fresh!

How to Serve Angel Chicken and Rice Casserole

Garnishes

This is a finish-ready main dish as-is, but if you want to make it extra lovely, top your Angel Chicken and Rice Casserole with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley, snipped chives, or a dash of cracked black pepper right before serving. It’s amazing how a little green and a bit of freshness can brighten up this comfort classic!

Side Dishes

Pairing this casserole with a crisp green salad or simple steamed vegetables gives you just the right amount of lightness to balance the creamy richness. A side of garlic bread or warm rolls also makes it even more inviting—perfect for soaking up any of that glorious sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve Angel Chicken and Rice Casserole in individual ramekins or mini cocottes for a “restaurant-style” feel at home. Or, pile generous scoops into shallow bowls and top with the crunchy topping tableside, so everyone gets that satisfying first bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Angel Chicken and Rice Casserole keeps like a dream! Cover tightly and refrigerate for up to 4 days. The flavors actually get even cozier as they mingle, making leftovers just as delightful as the original meal.

Freezing

Cool the casserole completely, then wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil before freezing for up to 3 months. For best results, freeze before baking and add fresh topping just before popping it in the oven.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F, covered with foil to keep everything moist. Remove the foil in the last few minutes to crisp the topping. For single servings, a quick zap in the microwave gets the job done, but oven reheating is best for that signature crunch!

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I hope you feel inspired to bring Angel Chicken and Rice Casserole into your own kitchen—it’s the kind of dish that never fails to deliver comfort, flavor, and happy faces at the table. Don’t be surprised if it becomes a new family tradition in your house, too. Enjoy every creamy bite!

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