Get ready to take your taste buds on a journey with this Creamy Angel Chicken Rice Casserole—a dish that feels like a warm hug from both your kitchen and the world beyond. Imagine tender chicken bathed in a velvety, herb-infused cream sauce, layered over fluffy rice, and baked to golden perfection.
It’s the kind of comfort food that whispers of Southern hospitality while giving a nod to classic French techniques with its smooth, roux-based sauce. But here’s where the magic happens: pair it with a refreshing Kani Salad or a crisp Simple Oriental Asian Cabbage Salad, and suddenly you’re dining in a cozy café that blends flavors from Tokyo to Tuscaloosa.
To elevate the flavor, use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for extra juiciness, and finish with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan for that perfect umami kick. For an added layer of richness, stir a splash of white wine into the cream sauce before baking—it brings a subtle depth that takes this dish to the next level.
Flavor Bomb Alert!
- One-Pan Wonder: I love how everything—from the creamy sauce to the tender chicken—comes together in just one dish. It’s a lifesaver on busy weeknights, and I bet it will be for you too.
- Global Comfort: The first time I paired it with Kani Salad, it felt like a fusion feast. The creamy, savory casserole beautifully balances the crisp, fresh flavors of Asian-inspired sides—a combo you’ll want to revisit.
- Make It Your Own: I’ve swapped out rice for quinoa or even orzo when I’m feeling adventurous. No matter the grain, the creamy chicken steals the show.
- Unexpected Crowd-Pleaser: I brought this to a potluck thinking it was just another casserole, but it disappeared faster than I expected. The creamy sauce is irresistible, and the hint of herbs keeps everyone coming back for seconds.
Angel Chicken Rice Casserole Recipe
Equipment
- 9×13” casserole dish
- Microwave-safe bowl
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Aluminum foil
- Cooking spray
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese room temperature and cubed
- 3 cups cooked chicken diced or shredded
- Salt and pepper to taste, to taste
- 0.7 oz Italian dressing mix
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- 10½ oz cream of chicken soup
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken stock
- 2 cup shredded Colby Jack cheese divided us
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and coat a 9×13” casserole dish with cooking spray.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, warm the cream cheese and butter for 20-30 seconds until softened, then whisk until smooth.
- In a large bowl, mix the cooked chicken, rice, the cream cheese-butter mixture, cream of chicken soup, garlic, Italian dressing mix, chicken stock, half the shredded cheese, salt, and pepper until everything is evenly combined.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese over the top.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the casserole is bubbling.
- Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes.
- Take off the foil.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving and enjoy!
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for added flavor and convenience.
- Substitute cream of mushroom soup for a richer, earthier taste.
| Nutrition | Value |
| Calories | 548kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 24g |
| Fibre | 0.3g |
| Fat | 38g |
| Protein | 26g |
Tips To Ease Your Job!
- Pre-Cook Ingredients Ahead of Time: Cook the chicken and rice a day in advance to save time on busy nights. You can even shred rotisserie chicken for extra convenience.
- Soften Dairy Quickly: If you’re short on time, cut the cream cheese and butter into small cubes before microwaving—they’ll soften faster and mix more smoothly.
- Mix Directly in the Casserole Dish: Skip extra dishes by mixing everything right in the casserole dish. Just make sure it’s big enough to handle all the ingredients without spilling.
- Double the Recipe & Freeze Half: Make a double batch and freeze one for later. Just thaw, bake, and enjoy a stress-free meal when you need it!
- Line Dish with Foil for Easy Cleanup: Lining your casserole dish with foil or parchment paper makes cleanup a breeze—especially if the cheese bubbles over!
