Angel Chicken Rice Casserole

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When comfort food calls, few dishes satisfy like this creamy, golden-topped Angel Chicken Rice Casserole. Loaded with tender bites of chicken, rich creaminess, and just the right amount of cheesy goodness, it’s everything you want in a cozy, family-style bake. The best part? It’s simple enough for busy weeknights but indulgent enough to serve when company drops by.

This casserole brings together pantry staples in the most delicious way. The rice soaks up all the creamy sauce, while the chicken stays juicy under a broiled, lightly crisped topping. It’s the perfect one-dish dinner that makes leftovers something to look forward to.

Why You’ll Love This Angel Chicken Rice Casserole

• Family-friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike.
• Make-ahead magic: Assemble it the night before and bake when ready.
• Freezer-friendly: Perfect for batch cooking.
• No-fuss: Minimal prep with maximum payoff.

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What Kind of Chicken Works Best?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs are ideal for this recipe. Breasts stay lean while absorbing flavor, but thighs add a bit more richness and tenderness. You can also use leftover rotisserie chicken in a pinch – just shred and stir it in during the final steps.

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Ingredients for the Angel Chicken Rice Casserole

• Chicken breasts or thighs: The protein star of the dish, juicy and flavorful.
• Long grain white rice: Absorbs the creamy sauce perfectly without turning mushy.
• Cream cheese: Adds rich, tangy creaminess to the casserole.
• Cream of chicken soup: Brings savory depth and body to the sauce.
• Sour cream: Gives the dish a velvety texture and slight tang.
• Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully and adds stretchy, cheesy richness.
• Grated parmesan cheese: For a salty, umami kick.
• Garlic powder & onion powder: Boosts flavor without chopping.
• Chicken broth: Helps cook the rice and infuses savory goodness.
• Butter: Adds richness and helps brown the top layer.
• Fresh parsley: For a pop of color and freshness before serving.

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How To Make the Angel Chicken Rice Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces and lightly season with salt and pepper. Sear the pieces in a skillet until lightly golden but not fully cooked through. Set aside.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Sauce

In a large bowl, combine softened cream cheese, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, and chicken broth. Whisk until smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread uncooked rice evenly across the bottom. Layer the seared chicken on top, then pour the creamy sauce mixture over everything. Use a spoon to gently stir so the rice is fully submerged.

Step 4: Top with Cheese

Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated parmesan over the casserole. Dot the top with small pieces of butter for golden brown goodness.

Step 5: Bake and Broil

Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until rice is tender and the top is bubbly and golden. For extra browning, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Let rest for 5 minutes before sprinkling with fresh parsley and serving warm.

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Perfect for Serving Any Time

This casserole yields 6 hearty servings, ideal for a family dinner or sharing with friends. Serve it with a simple green salad or roasted veggies for a complete, satisfying meal.

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How to Store Angel Chicken Rice Casserole

Let any leftovers cool completely before storing. Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, microwave individual servings or bake covered in the oven at 300°F until warmed through. You can also freeze portions for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use brown rice instead of white?
Yes, but it will require a longer baking time and more liquid. Adjust chicken broth accordingly and bake covered for up to an hour.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely. Assemble everything, cover tightly, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes! Leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken works great. Just skip the searing step and mix it in before baking.

Is there a way to make it lighter?
Use light sour cream and reduced-fat cream cheese to cut down on calories without sacrificing creaminess.

Can I add vegetables to the casserole?
Definitely. Stir in peas, broccoli, or spinach just before baking for a boost of nutrition.

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Want More Casserole Ideas?

If you love this Angel Chicken Rice Casserole, check out these other delicious baked meals:

• Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Bake
• Runza Casserole
• Cheeseburger Pasta Dinner Casserole
• Chicken and Corn Skillet with Garlic Parmesan Rice
• Beef and Potato Casserole

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you sneak in some veggies or add extra cheese? Did you try it with brown rice or keep it classic?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter.

Find even more easy casseroles and comfort food favorites on Life With Livia.

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