Angel Chicken Rice Casserole

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Comfort food doesn’t get much better than this Angel Chicken Rice Casserole. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with tender chicken and fluffy rice, this dish is the kind of meal that warms both hearts and bellies. It bakes up beautifully with a golden, bubbly top, and the aroma alone will bring everyone running to the table. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner or to impress guests, this casserole delivers every time.

What makes this dish a standout is its perfect balance of flavors and textures. The tender chicken melds perfectly with the creamy rice, while the melted cheese on top adds a lightly crispy contrast. A sprinkle of herbs brings a final pop of freshness, turning a humble casserole into something truly special. It’s hearty, satisfying, and incredibly easy to put together with pantry staples.

Why You’ll Love This Angel Chicken Rice Casserole

• It’s a one-dish wonder that saves you time on cooking and cleanup.
• Full of comforting, creamy flavor with just the right amount of cheesy goodness.
• Perfect for meal prep or feeding a crowd.
• Versatile enough to tweak with your favorite veggies or cheese blends.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To make the perfect Angel Chicken Rice Casserole, having the right tools is key. A deep 9×13-inch baking dish is essential for even cooking and holding all the ingredients without spillover. A large mixing bowl helps you combine everything smoothly, and a sturdy wooden spoon or spatula is useful for mixing and transferring the mixture. Measuring cups and spoons ensure accuracy with ingredients, and aluminum foil helps prevent the casserole from over-browning while baking.

If you want a nice golden crust, having an oven-safe broiler function or kitchen torch at the ready can help give that final touch of crispiness to the cheese topping.

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Preparation Tips

Use cooked and shredded rotisserie chicken for a quick shortcut, or prep chicken breasts in advance. Make sure the rice is fully cooked before mixing it into the casserole to avoid sogginess or uneven texture. Mix the ingredients thoroughly to ensure even distribution of the sauce, chicken, and cheese. Covering the casserole for the first part of baking helps trap moisture, while removing the cover toward the end creates a beautifully browned top. Let it sit for about 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to settle and the sauce to thicken slightly.

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Ingredients for Angel Chicken Rice Casserole

• 2 cups cooked white rice (long grain or jasmine works best)
• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken is ideal)
• 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
• 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup finely chopped onion (optional for extra flavor)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning (optional)
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
• Cooking spray or butter (for greasing the baking dish)

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Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prep Your Dish

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a little butter to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.

Step 2: Mix the Creamy Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and mayonnaise. Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, thyme (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and fully blended.

Step 3: Add Chicken and Rice

Fold in the shredded chicken, cooked rice, chopped onion (if using), cheddar cheese, and Parmesan cheese into the creamy base. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.

Step 4: Transfer to Baking Dish

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly with a spatula. Sprinkle additional cheddar cheese on top for that golden crust.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly with golden-brown edges.

Step 6: Let It Rest and Garnish

Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes. This helps the flavors settle and makes it easier to serve. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving for a pop of color and freshness.

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Notes

Angel Chicken Rice Casserole is forgiving and flexible, which makes it a favorite for busy households. You can swap in brown rice or wild rice for a nuttier flavor and more fiber, or use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a lighter version. If you’re aiming for more veggies, stir in steamed broccoli, peas, or diced bell peppers. The dish can also be made ahead and refrigerated before baking, making it ideal for prepping meals in advance.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Using uncooked rice: Always use fully cooked rice to avoid a mushy or uneven texture.
• Skipping the foil cover during baking: This can lead to over-browned or dried-out casserole before it’s heated through.
• Over-salting: The canned soups and cheeses already bring salt to the dish, so season lightly and taste as you go.
• Undermixing: Make sure all ingredients are evenly combined before baking for consistent flavor in every bite.
• Not letting it rest: Letting the casserole sit before serving helps the creamy texture set and improves sliceability.

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Storage Instructions

Once cooled, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven for about 15–20 minutes, or microwave individual portions. For longer storage, you can freeze the fully assembled but unbaked casserole for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.

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Estimated Nutrition (per serving, based on 8 servings)

• Calories: 420 kcal
• Protein: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Cholesterol: 85mg
• Sodium: 710mg
• Sugar: 3g
• Fiber: 1g

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use leftover turkey instead of chicken?

Yes! Leftover turkey works just as well in this casserole and is a great post-holiday meal idea.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can prep the entire dish, cover, and refrigerate it up to 24 hours before baking.

What kind of rice works best?

Long grain white rice or jasmine rice holds its texture well and blends beautifully with the creamy sauce.

Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes. Assemble and freeze before baking for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before baking as directed.

How do I make it gluten-free?

Use gluten-free versions of the cream soups and double-check all other ingredients for hidden gluten.

What cheese substitutes can I try?

Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a Colby blend are all great substitutes if you want something milder or meltier.

Is it possible to add vegetables?

Definitely! Mix in steamed broccoli, peas, corn, or spinach for extra nutrients and color.

What can I serve with this casserole?

It pairs well with a fresh green salad, steamed green beans, or roasted carrots for a complete meal.

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Conclusion

Angel Chicken Rice Casserole delivers everything a home-cooked comfort dish should: creamy texture, satisfying flavors, and easy preparation. With just a few pantry staples and simple steps, it transforms everyday ingredients into something warm, hearty, and crave-worthy. Whether you’re feeding a family, making a dish for a potluck, or simply meal-prepping for the week, this casserole is a go-to that never disappoints.

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