Introduction
The first time I made Angel Chicken Rice Casserole, I was looking for a simple yet satisfying meal that didn’t require hours in the kitchen. I wanted something creamy, flavorful, and filling—without needing a dozen pots and pans. This dish turned out to be the perfect solution!
With tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a velvety sauce, this casserole is the ultimate comfort food. Everything bakes together in one dish, letting the flavors meld into a rich, cheesy, and creamy meal. Whether you need a cozy weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, this recipe is a guaranteed winner.
The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make using pantry staples like rice, broth, cream cheese, and Parmesan. A few simple seasonings bring out the natural flavors, making it a family favorite that even picky eaters will love.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about making Angel Chicken Rice Casserole, from ingredients and step-by-step instructions to serving tips and tasty variations. Get ready for a dish that will quickly become a go-to in your recipe collection!
Why This Angel Chicken Rice Casserole Recipe Works
This Angel Chicken Rice Casserole is more than just an easy meal—it’s a creamy, flavorful, and satisfying dish that comes together with minimal effort. Here’s why you’ll love this recipe:
1. One-Pan Convenience
No need for multiple pots and pans! With all the ingredients baked together in one dish, cleaning up afterward is incredibly simple.
2. Creamy and Rich Flavor
The combination of cream cheese, Parmesan, and heavy cream creates a silky, indulgent sauce that coats the chicken and rice perfectly. If you love creamy, cheesy comfort food, you might also enjoy this Buffalo Mac and Cheese, which delivers bold flavors in every bite.
3. Family-Friendly
Even the pickiest eaters will enjoy the cheesy, comforting flavors of this dish. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for both kids and adults.
4. Customizable
You can easily switch up the flavors by adding vegetables, swapping the rice, or using different cheeses. This casserole is flexible and can be tailored to your taste!
5. Perfect for Meal Prep
Make it ahead of time and store leftovers for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week. It reheats beautifully!
Now that you know why this recipe is a must-try, let’s gather the essential kitchen tools you’ll need.
What You’ll Need to Make Angel Chicken Rice Casserole
Before we start cooking, having the right kitchen tools will make the process smooth and hassle-free. Here’s what you’ll need:
Essential Kitchen Equipment
- Casserole Dish (9×13-inch) – The perfect size for even baking.
- Large Skillet – Needed for sautéing the chicken to lock in flavor.
- Mixing Bowl – To combine the rice and sauce ingredients.
- Measurement cups & Spoons – Ensures precise ingredient portions.
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula – Ideal for stirring and spreading the mixture.
- Aluminum Foil – Helps trap moisture during baking.
With these tools ready, let’s move on to the ingredients that bring this dish to life!
Angel Chicken Rice Casserole Ingredients
The magic of this dish comes from simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that create a creamy and flavorful casserole. Here’s everything you’ll need:
Main Ingredients
- 2 large chicken breasts – Boneless, skinless, and sliced for even cooking.
- 1 cup white rice – Long-grain or jasmine rice for a fluffy texture.
- 2 cups chicken broth – Enhances the dish with rich, savory flavor.
- ½ cup heavy cream – Adds a smooth, creamy consistency.
- 4 oz cream cheese (softened) – Creates a luscious, velvety texture.
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese – Gives a nutty, cheesy finish.
Seasonings & Flavor Enhancers
- 1 tsp garlic powder – Enhances the depth of flavor.
- 1 tsp onion powder – Adds a mild sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning – a versatile herb mix.
- Salt & pepper (to taste) – Balances the overall flavors.
- 2 tbsp olive oil – For sautéing the chicken.
- 2 tbsp butter – Adds richness to the dish.
With these ingredients ready, let’s move on to the step-by-step instructions to bring this delicious casserole to life!
How to Make Angel Chicken Rice Casserole
This creamy and comforting casserole comes together with minimal effort, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Follow these simple steps for a foolproof, delicious dish.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 35 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes | Servings: 4-6
1. Preheat & Prep
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Coat the casserole dish with a thin layer of butter or non-stick spray.
2. Sauté the Chicken
- Warm 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet set to medium heat.
- Season the sliced chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Cook each side for 3-4 minutes, just until golden brown. (The chicken will complete cooking during the baking process.)
- Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Prepare the Rice Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, combine:
- 1 cup white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 4 oz softened cream cheese
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Stir until everything is well combined and the cream cheese is evenly mixed in.
4. Assemble the Casserole
- Pour the rice mixture into the casserole dish, spreading it evenly.
- Arrange the sautéed chicken breasts on top.
- Dot with 2 tbsp butter, cut into small pieces, for extra richness.
5. Bake
- Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil, sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese on top, and bake uncovered for 5 more minutes until golden and bubbly.
6. Serve & Enjoy
- Allow the casserole to cool for about 5 minutes prior to serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley (optional) and enjoy a warm, comforting meal!
Tips & Hacks
- Use Rotisserie Chicken to save time and make the recipe even easier. Simply shred the cooked chicken and mix it into the rice before baking.
- Swap Rice for Quinoa for a protein-rich alternative. Adjust the liquid ratio slightly, as quinoa absorbs differently than rice.
- Add Vegetables like mushrooms, peas, or spinach to boost the nutritional value and add extra texture.
- Make it Spicy by mixing in red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a subtle kick.
- Use a Slow Cooker for a hands-free version. Combine all ingredients and cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked.
Angel Chicken Rice Casserole
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4-6 1x
Description
This creamy, cheesy Angel Chicken Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort food! With tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a rich Parmesan-cream sauce, it’s a one-pan meal perfect for weeknights. Easy, hearty, and packed with flavor!
Ingredients
- 2 large chicken breasts, boneless and skinless, sliced
- 1 cup white rice (long-grain or jasmine)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter, cut into small pieces
Instructions
- Preheat & Prep: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.
- Sauté the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Sauté for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown (it will finish cooking in the oven). Remove from heat.
- Prepare the Rice Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine rice, chicken broth, heavy cream, cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. Stir until well mixed.
- Assemble the Casserole: Pour the rice mixture into the prepared casserole dish and spread evenly. Place the sautéed chicken on top and dot with butter pieces.
- Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil, sprinkle extra Parmesan on top, and bake uncovered for another 5 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Serve & Enjoy: Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley (optional) and enjoy!
Notes
Use rotisserie chicken for an even quicker version.
Swap white rice for quinoa for a protein-rich alternative.
Add mushrooms, spinach, or peas for extra nutrients.
Make it spicy by adding red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Per Serving
- Calories: ~450 kcal
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Protein: 35g
Keywords: chicken rice casserole, creamy chicken bake, easy one-pan meal, cheesy rice dish, comfort food
Nutrition Score (Per Serving)
Understanding the nutritional breakdown of this Angel Chicken Rice Casserole helps you enjoy it while keeping track of your dietary needs. Here’s the approximate nutrition per serving:
- Calories: ~450 kcal
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fat: 18g
- Sodium: 750mg
Key Nutritional Benefits
- High in Protein: Lean chicken provides a great protein boost, making this dish filling and satisfying.
- Balanced Carbs & Fats: The combination of rice, cheese, and cream creates a well-rounded meal.
- Customizable: You can reduce calories by using half-and-half instead of heavy cream or increasing fiber by swapping white rice for brown rice.
With the casserole baked to perfection, each bite is packed with creamy, cheesy goodness and tender chicken. Now, let’s go over the best ways to serve and store this dish for maximum flavor and freshness!
Serving & Storing Angel Chicken Rice Casserole
Angel Chicken Rice Casserole is a hearty and satisfying dish, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy family dinner or meal-prepping for the week, here’s how to get the most out of it.
Serving Suggestions
- With a Side Salad – A fresh green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette offers a refreshing complement to the casserole’s creamy texture. If you’re looking for a flavorful, protein-packed salad, try this Caesar Pasta Salad, which complements creamy casseroles beautifully.
- Paired with Roasted Vegetables – Serve with roasted broccoli, carrots, or asparagus for added nutrition.
- Garlic Bread or Dinner Rolls – A great choice to enjoy alongside the casserole.
- Topped with Fresh Herbs – Sprinkle chopped parsley or basil for a fresh touch.
How to Store Leftovers
- Refrigeration: Transfer cooled leftovers into an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze individual portions in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Before serving, let it defrost in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat. For the best texture and flavor, follow this guide from AllRecipes on proper freezing and thawing techniques.
Reheating Tips
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover the casserole with foil, and bake for 15–20 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat individual servings in a microwave-safe dish with a splash of broth or cream to retain moisture.
Up next, let’s explore some delicious variations to customize this dish to your liking!
Delicious Variations of Angel Chicken Rice Casserole
One of the best things about Angel Chicken Rice Casserole is how easily it can be customized. Whether you want a cheesier version, a dairy-free alternative, or a boost of nutrition, these variations will help you make the dish your own.
1. Extra Cheesy Chicken Rice Casserole
Love a cheesier bite? Try this:
- Add 1 cup of shredded mozzarella on top before baking.
- Stir in 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese for a sharper flavor.
2. Dairy-Free Angel Chicken Rice Casserole
If you’re avoiding dairy, you can still enjoy this dish with these simple swaps:
- Use coconut cream as a substitute for heavy cream to maintain a rich consistency.
- Use dairy-free cream cheese and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
3. Gluten-Free Option
- Ensure that all ingredients, including broth and seasonings, are gluten-free.
- Swap white rice for quinoa or cauliflower rice for a lighter version.
4. Veggie-Packed Casserole
Want more nutrients? Add vegetables!
- Mix in peas, mushrooms, or spinach with the rice mixture.
- Top with sliced cherry tomatoes for a fresh twist.
5. Spicy Chicken Rice Casserole
For those who love a little heat:
- Add 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to the sauce.
- Use spicy pepper jack cheese instead of Parmesan.
Each variation brings a unique flavor to the dish, making it easy to adjust to your preferences.
Angel Chicken Rice Casserole FAQs
How long is rice casserole good for?
Rice casserole stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days when stored properly in an airtight container.
How do you store rice casserole?
Allow the casserole to cool fully before moving it into an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and prevent it from drying out.
Can you reheat chicken and rice casserole?
Yes! Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes, or warm individual portions in the microwave with a splash of broth to keep it moist.
Can you bake uncooked rice in a casserole dish?
Absolutely! Uncooked rice absorbs liquid as it bakes, becoming tender and flavorful. Just make sure to use enough broth or liquid to allow the rice to cook properly in the oven.
This casserole is easy to store, reheat, and even customize to your liking. Now, let’s wrap things up!
Conclusion
Angel Chicken Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort dish—rich, creamy, and packed with flavor. Whether you need an easy weeknight meal or a satisfying dish for family gatherings, this casserole delivers on taste and convenience.
With its tender chicken, fluffy rice, and velvety sauce, it’s sure to become a household favorite. Plus, with simple storage and reheating options, you can enjoy it for days without losing its delicious texture.
Give this recipe a try, and bring warmth and comfort to your dinner table. Ready to enjoy a creamy, cheesy, and satisfying meal? Grab your ingredients and start cooking today!