Name: Quick and Easy Angel Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe for Hassle-Free Cooking
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs; 1 cup long-grain white rice; 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup; 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 packet (0.7 oz) Italian dressing mix; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tbsp butter, melted; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp onion powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper

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Short Description

Angel Chicken and Rice Casserole is a creamy, comforting dish that brings together tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a rich, savory sauce for an easy, one-pan meal. Perfect for busy weeknights, this hassle-free recipe requires minimal prep and delivers maximum flavor. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week, this dish is sure to become a household favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple and Quick: Requires minimal prep and can be assembled in minutes before baking.
One-Pan Meal: Easy cleanup with everything cooking in one dish.
Rich and Creamy Flavor: A luscious, savory sauce coats the chicken and rice, creating a hearty dish.
Customizable: Easily adaptable with different proteins, vegetables, or seasonings.
Perfect for Meal Prep: Stores and reheats well, making it a great make-ahead option.

Ingredients

Chicken breasts or thighs
Long-grain white rice
Cream of mushroom soup
Cream of chicken soup
Chicken broth
Italian dressing mix
Parmesan cheese
Butter
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Salt
Black pepper

Directions

Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Prepare Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly with butter or nonstick spray.
Layer the Rice: Evenly spread the uncooked rice in the bottom of the dish.
Add Chicken: Place the chicken breasts or thighs on top of the rice.
Make the Sauce: In a bowl, mix together cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, Italian dressing mix, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
Pour Over Chicken: Evenly distribute the sauce mixture over the chicken and rice.
Top with Cheese: Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top for added richness.
Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
Remove Foil: Take off the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, allowing the top to brown slightly.
Check for Doneness: Ensure the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F) and the rice is tender.
Rest and Serve: Let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Variations

Different Proteins: Substitute chicken with turkey, shrimp, or tofu for variety.
Extra Vegetables: Add mushrooms, bell peppers, peas, or spinach for added nutrients.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for heat.
Cheese Options: Swap Parmesan for cheddar, mozzarella, or gouda for a different cheesy experience.
Low-Carb Alternative: Replace rice with cauliflower rice for a keto-friendly version.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 70 minutes
Servings: 6

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F for 15 minutes or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.

FAQs

How can I prevent the rice from becoming mushy?

Use long-grain white rice and avoid overcooking. Keep the foil on for most of the baking time to prevent excess moisture loss.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but brown rice requires a longer cooking time. Add an extra 10-15 minutes and check for doneness.

What can I serve with Angel Chicken and Rice Casserole?

Pair with a fresh green salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Layer ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

What if I don’t have Italian dressing mix?

Substitute with a blend of dried oregano, basil, thyme, garlic powder, and a pinch of sugar.

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble the casserole, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

How do I make this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free soups and check that your seasoning mix is gluten-free.

Can I add more cheese?

Yes, feel free to mix different cheeses or add more Parmesan for extra creaminess.

What’s the best way to check if the chicken is done?

Use a meat thermometer to ensure an internal temperature of 165°F.

Can I use bone-in chicken?

Yes, but adjust the cooking time as bone-in chicken takes longer to cook.

Conclusion

Angel Chicken and Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. Its creamy texture, rich flavors, and simple preparation make it a must-try dish. Whether you customize it to your taste or stick to the classic recipe, this hassle-free casserole is bound to be a favorite. Give it a try and enjoy a satisfying meal with minimal effort!

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