We’ve all had those evenings when we crave a cozy, no-fuss meal that feels like a hug in a bowl and our Angel Chicken Rice Casserole delivers just that. This classic American comfort dish combines tender chicken with fluffy rice in a creamy sauce that’s both satisfying and simple to whip up.
What we love most is its versatility for busy weeknights or family gatherings making it a go-to favorite in our kitchen. Join us as we share this easy recipe that’ll become a staple in yours too.
Ingredients
To prepare our Angel Chicken Rice Casserole, a comforting blend of tender chicken and fluffy rice enveloped in a creamy sauce, we’ve compiled the essential ingredients below. We’ll list them in the order they’re typically used, with prep specifics noted for accuracy and ease.
- Uncooked white rice: 2 cups (rinsed under cold water to remove excess starch for better texture)
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts: 1.5 pounds (cut into 1-inch cubes for even cooking)
- Cream of chicken soup: 1 can (10.5 ounces, undiluted for a richer base)
- Fresh mushrooms: 8 ounces (sliced thinly to enhance flavor infusion)
- Yellow onion: 1 medium (diced finely for a subtle sweetness)
- Garlic cloves: 3 (minced for aromatic depth)
- Chicken broth: 1 cup (low-sodium, to control salt levels)
- Sour cream: 1 cup (full-fat, for a creamy consistency)
- Shredded cheddar cheese: 1 cup (divided, with half for mixing and half for topping)
- Dried thyme: 1 teaspoon (for a hint of earthy flavor)
- Salt and black pepper: 1 teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon pepper (adjust to taste for seasoning balance)
Equipment Needed
Before we dive into preparing our Angel Chicken Rice Casserole, let’s gather the essential tools that make assembly and baking straightforward. We recommend these items to ensure a smooth cooking process, allowing us to combine ingredients like uncooked white rice and cream of chicken soup efficiently for that creamy, comforting result.
- 9×13 inch baking dish: This is crucial for layering and baking the casserole evenly; opt for a glass or ceramic one to promote even heat distribution and a golden top.
- Large mixing bowl: We use this to thoroughly combine ingredients such as shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, and seasonings before transferring to the baking dish.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key for our recipe—use a set of dry measuring cups for items like rice and broth, and spoons for precise additions of dried thyme and garlic.
- Cutting board and sharp knife: Essential for chopping fresh mushrooms, yellow onion, and garlic cloves quickly and safely to maintain their flavors in the dish.
- Spatula or wooden spoon: We rely on this for stirring and mixing the creamy sauce components without damaging the rice or chicken.
- Oven thermometer: To guarantee the casserole bakes perfectly at 350°F, ensuring tender chicken and fluffy rice every time.
With these tools ready, we’re set to transition seamlessly from measuring our ingredients to the cooking steps ahead.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our ingredients and essential tools, we guide you through the straightforward steps to craft our flavorful Angel Chicken Rice Casserole. Follow these instructions closely for a hearty, creamy dish that will delight your family.
Prepare Ingredients
First, we measure and prep all components to ensure smooth assembly. Begin by rinsing 2 cups of uncooked white rice under cold water until the water runs clear, then set it aside in a bowl. Next, cut 1.5 pounds of boneless skinless chicken breasts into 1-inch cubes on a clean cutting board using a sharp knife for even cooking.
For the vegetables, peel and finely chop 1 medium yellow onion and 2 garlic cloves, aiming for about 1 cup of chopped onion and 2 tablespoons of minced garlic to enhance the savory base. Slice 8 ounces of fresh mushrooms into thin pieces to release their earthy flavors. In a separate bowl, combine 1 can (10.5 ounces) of cream of chicken soup with 1 cup of chicken broth, 1 cup of sour cream, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, and 1 teaspoon each of salt and black pepper, stirring until the mixture is smooth and creamy—this creates our rich sauce that ties everything together.
Assemble the Casserole
With ingredients prepped, we layer them in a 9×13 inch baking dish for optimal results. Start by spreading the 2 cups of rinsed rice evenly across the bottom of the dish to form a solid base. Evenly distribute the cubed chicken breasts over the rice, followed by the chopped yellow onion, minced garlic, and sliced mushrooms to build layers of texture and taste.
Pour the creamy sauce mixture over the top, ensuring it coats all ingredients thoroughly for a moist, flavorful bake. Use a spatula to gently mix everything in the dish just enough to combine without disturbing the layers—this step helps the flavors meld into a comforting, cheesy blend that will make your kitchen smell irresistible as it bakes.
Bake the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 350°F using the oven thermometer for accuracy, then place the assembled casserole in the center rack. Bake uncovered for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F—check this with a meat thermometer for safety.
Halfway through baking at the 25-minute mark, sprinkle an additional 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top for a golden, bubbly crust that adds a delightful crunch. Once done, remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to settle, resulting in a piping-hot dish with tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a creamy sauce that promises a satisfying meal.
Make-Ahead Instructions
One of the best features of our Angel Chicken Rice Casserole is how easily it adapts to busy schedules, allowing us to prepare it in advance for effortless meals later. Whether we’re planning for a hectic weeknight or prepping for a gathering, these steps ensure the casserole retains its creamy texture and flavorful appeal.
Assembling Ahead of Time
We recommend assembling the casserole up to 24 hours in advance for refrigeration or up to 3 months for freezing. Follow these steps to prepare it without baking immediately:
- Step 1: After combining the ingredients as outlined in our cooking instructions, layer the rice, cubed chicken, chopped vegetables, and creamy sauce mixture into the 9×13 inch baking dish as usual.
- Step 2: Cover the assembled dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent drying out and contamination.
- Step 3: Label the dish with the preparation date and baking instructions for quick reference.
Storage Guidelines
Proper storage is key to maintaining the dish’s tender chicken, fluffy rice, and rich, creamy sauce. Below, we provide a quick reference table for storage times and methods to keep everything safe and delicious:
| Storage Method | Duration | Key Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration | Up to 24 hours | Store in the fridge at 40°F or below; this keeps the flavors fresh and prevents bacterial growth. |
| Freezing | Up to 3 months | Use freezer-safe containers or wrap tightly; avoid freezer burn by ensuring no air pockets. |
Thawing and Baking from Storage
To enjoy our Angel Chicken Rice Casserole at its best, we need to handle thawing and baking carefully:
- If refrigerated: Remove the dish from the fridge 30 minutes before baking to bring it to room temperature, then bake at 350°F as per the original instructions, adding about 5-10 minutes to the bake time.
- If frozen: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator for safe results. Once thawed, follow the baking steps, checking the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F for optimal tenderness and food safety.
- Reheating tip: For leftovers, cover with foil and reheat in a 350°F oven for 20-25 minutes until heated through, preserving the golden, cheesy crust we love.
By following these make-ahead strategies, we can savor the comforting, hearty flavors of Angel Chicken Rice Casserole whenever we need a quick, homemade meal. Always prioritize food safety by using a thermometer and avoiding the temperature danger zone.
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing this Angel Chicken Rice Casserole as a go-to for cozy meals that fit any schedule. It’s the perfect blend of simplicity and flavor we all crave on busy days.
Our hope is you’ll make it your own and enjoy its comforting warmth time after time. It’s more than a recipe—it’s a reliable kitchen win.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Angel Chicken Rice Casserole?
Angel Chicken Rice Casserole is a comforting, easy-to-make dish featuring tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a creamy sauce. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, offering a hearty, versatile meal that’s simple to prepare at home.
What ingredients are needed for Angel Chicken Rice Casserole?
You’ll need uncooked white rice, boneless skinless chicken breasts, cream of chicken soup, fresh mushrooms, yellow onion, garlic cloves, chicken broth, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, dried thyme, and basic seasonings. Measure accurately for the best results, as outlined in the recipe.
What equipment is required to make this casserole?
Essential tools include a 9×13 inch baking dish for even baking, a large mixing bowl for combining ingredients, measuring cups and spoons for precision, a cutting board and sharp knife for prepping veggies, a spatula or wooden spoon for mixing, and an oven thermometer to maintain 350°F.
How do I prepare Angel Chicken Rice Casserole?
Start by rinsing rice, cubing chicken, and chopping vegetables. Layer rice, chicken, veggies, and a creamy sauce mixture in a baking dish. Bake at 350°F until the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature, adding cheese midway for a golden crust. Let it rest before serving for optimal texture.
Can I make Angel Chicken Rice Casserole ahead of time?
Yes, assemble it up to 24 hours in advance for refrigeration or freeze for up to 3 months. Prepare as directed, then cover and store. Thaw frozen casseroles in the fridge overnight before baking, and follow the recipe’s guidelines for reheating to ensure food safety and great taste.
How should I store and reheat leftovers?
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw if frozen, then bake at 350°F until heated through, or use the microwave for smaller portions. Always check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safety.