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Angel Chicken Casserole Recipe

4.4 from 73 reviews

Angel Chicken Casserole is a creamy, comforting Southern-style dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a rich blend of cream soups, sour cream, and cream cheese, baked together with uncooked rice and savory seasonings to create a deliciously hearty family meal. Topped with shredded cheddar cheese and garnished with fresh parsley, this casserole offers a perfect balance of creamy texture and flavorful zest, ideal for busy weeknights or special gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Rice

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup uncooked white rice
  • 1 cup chicken broth

Dairy and Cream Base

  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Seasonings and Extras

  • 1/2 cup chopped green onions
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare Chicken: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and lightly sear the chicken breasts on both sides until golden brown but not fully cooked, approximately 2-3 minutes per side. This step seals in flavor and enhances texture.
  2. Mix Sauce Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, softened cream cheese, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Whisk thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and creamy with no lumps.
  3. Assemble the Casserole: In a greased baking dish, spread the uncooked white rice evenly on the bottom. Place the seared chicken breasts on top of the rice. Pour the creamy sauce mixture evenly over the chicken and rice. Sprinkle the chopped green onions across the surface for added aroma and flavor.
  4. Bake: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 55 to 60 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F) and the rice is tender, having absorbed the creamy sauce.
  5. Add Cheese Topping: Remove the foil carefully, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole, and return it to the oven uncovered. Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly, with slight golden spots.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let rest for about 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. This resting time helps the casserole set slightly, making it easier to serve.

Notes

  • You can substitute the white rice with brown rice, but increase the baking time to ensure rice is fully cooked.
  • For a lower fat version, use reduced-fat sour cream and cheese.
  • If you like a spicier variation, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
  • Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat thoroughly before serving.
  • Pre-searing the chicken adds flavor, but you can skip this step and bake the chicken raw if pressed for time, increasing the baking time by 10-15 minutes.

Keywords: Angel chicken casserole, creamy chicken casserole, baked chicken and rice, comfort food, family dinner recipe, southern casserole