Angel Chicken and Rice Casserole is a delightful and hearty meal that combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and fluffy rice, all baked to perfection. This dish is perfect for family dinners, offering a comforting and satisfying experience. With its rich flavors and easy preparation, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Sauce:
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1 packet dry Italian salad dressing mix
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
For the Rice:
- 1 1/2 cups long-grain white rice
- 3 cups water or chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Salt to taste
Optional Toppings:
- Chopped fresh parsley
- Grated Parmesan cheese
Steps
Prepare the Chicken:
- Season the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Brown the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Prepare the Sauce:
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, chicken broth, softened cream cheese, dry Italian salad dressing mix, and minced garlic. Mix until smooth and well blended.
Prepare the Rice:
- Cook the Rice: In a medium saucepan, bring the water or chicken broth to a boil. Add the rice, butter, and salt. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork.
Assemble the Casserole:
- Layer the Ingredients: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the cooked rice evenly in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Place the browned chicken breasts on top of the rice.
- Add the Sauce: Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken and rice, ensuring everything is well covered.
Bake the Casserole:
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and the chicken is cooked through.
- Check for Doneness: Ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) to confirm it is fully cooked.
Serve:
- Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Simply bake it when ready to serve.
- Rice Variations: Try using wild rice or brown rice for a different texture and flavor. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
- Vegetable Additions: Add vegetables like broccoli, peas, or mushrooms to the rice layer for added nutrition and flavor.
Variations
- Spicy Version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture for a spicy kick.
- Herbed Chicken: Marinate the chicken breasts in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and fresh herbs (like thyme, rosemary, or oregano) before browning for extra flavor.
Angel Chicken and Rice Casserole is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. With its rich, creamy sauce and tender chicken, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the ease of preparation and the delicious results of this satisfying meal!
