Description
If you’re after a cozy, no-fuss dinner that warms you right to the core, this Angel Chicken Rice Casserole is the answer. Think tender chicken, creamy sauce, fluffy rice, and a generous layer of melted cheese — all baked together until golden and irresistible. It’s the kind of comfort food that feels like a big, warm hug after a long day.
The best part? It practically cooks itself. All you do is stir, bake, and sit back while the oven fills your kitchen with the most mouthwatering aroma. By the time it’s done, you’ll be counting down the seconds to that first creamy, cheesy bite.
Serve it with a crisp green salad or some roasted veggies, and you’ve got a simple family dinner that everyone will happily devour — yes, even the “I don’t like anything touching” kids.
Ingredients
Main Components
- 2 cups cooked chicken – shredded or diced, whatever you have on hand works perfectly.
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice – absorbs all the creamy goodness as it bakes.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup – for that classic, rich flavor base.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup – adds extra depth and earthiness.
- 2 cups chicken broth – keeps the rice moist and flavorful.
- 1 cup sour cream – gives the dish its signature creamy texture and a slight tang.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – melts beautifully into every bite.
Veggies & Seasoning
- ½ cup finely chopped onion – adds sweetness and flavor.
- ½ cup finely chopped celery – brings a little crunch and freshness.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – because garlic makes everything better.
- 1 teaspoon paprika – for a pop of color and subtle warmth.
- Salt and pepper – adjust to taste.
Optional Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped – adds color and a hint of freshness before serving.
Instructions
- Get That Oven Ready
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Starting with a hot oven ensures your casserole bakes evenly and to perfection.
- Mix Everything Together
- In a large bowl, toss in your cooked chicken, uncooked rice, both soups, chicken broth, sour cream, shredded cheese, onions, celery, and seasonings. Stir well until it’s all combined and creamy — no dry spots left behind!
- Prep the Baking Dish
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray. Pour in your mixture and spread it out evenly so every scoop later has a good mix of chicken, rice, and sauce.
- Cover and Bake
- Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 45 minutes. This traps steam inside, helping the rice cook up soft and fluffy while keeping everything moist.
- Uncover and Finish
- Remove the foil carefully (watch for hot steam!) and bake for another 15 minutes, until the top turns beautifully golden and the edges start bubbling.
- Rest Before Serving
- Once baked, let the casserole sit for about 5 minutes before digging in. It’ll firm up slightly and be much easier to serve.
- Garnish and Enjoy
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley for that final touch of color and freshness. Serve it warm and enjoy every creamy, cheesy, comforting bite.
Notes
If you prefer a little crunch on top, add a handful of crushed buttery crackers or breadcrumbs before the final bake. You’ll get a crispy golden topping that pairs beautifully with the creamy filling.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Dinner