If you’re looking for a quick, hearty, and incredibly tasty meal, the Angel Chicken Rice recipe is the perfect choice. This dish combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and fluffy rice, creating a comforting, delicious meal that’s sure to please the whole family. Whether you’re preparing dinner for a busy weeknight or hosting a cozy dinner party, Angel Chicken Rice is a versatile recipe that’s both satisfying and easy to make.
What is Angel Chicken Rice?
Angel Chicken Rice is a flavorful and creamy casserole-style dish that brings together chicken, rice, and a rich, creamy sauce made with simple ingredients. The combination of chicken, sour cream, and cream of chicken soup provides a comforting, velvety base that pairs perfectly with the rice and any side dishes you choose.
Ingredients for Angel Chicken Rice
To make Angel Chicken Rice, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: This is the main protein in the dish. You can also use thighs for a slightly richer flavor.
- Rice: White long-grain rice works best for this dish. It’s fluffy and absorbs the sauce nicely.
- Cream of chicken soup: This adds a creamy base and a mild, savory flavor to the dish.
- Sour cream: Adds richness and tang to the sauce, creating a smooth, creamy texture.
- Chicken broth: For added depth of flavor and to help cook the rice.
- Garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika: These seasonings enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
- Shredded cheese (optional): A layer of melted cheese on top adds an extra layer of indulgence, making it even more irresistible.
How to Make Angel Chicken Rice
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Sauté the chicken in a skillet until it’s golden brown on the outside and cooked through. You can also bake or grill the chicken if you prefer. Once the chicken is cooked, chop it into bite-sized pieces and set it aside.
Step 2: Cook the Rice
While the chicken is cooking, prepare the rice according to the package instructions, using chicken broth instead of water for added flavor. This will infuse the rice with a savory taste that pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and chicken broth. Add in the garlic powder, onion powder, and any additional seasonings you like. Stir until the sauce is smooth and well combined.
Step 4: Assemble the Dish
In a large baking dish, spread the cooked rice evenly at the bottom. Layer the chopped chicken on top, then pour the creamy sauce mixture over the chicken. Stir gently to coat everything in the sauce.
Step 5: Bake
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until the dish is hot and bubbly. If you like a crispy top, remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking.
Step 6: Optional Cheese Layer
If you’re a fan of cheesy dishes, sprinkle shredded cheese on top of the casserole during the last 5 minutes of baking. Let it melt and form a golden, bubbly crust.
Tips for the Best Angel Chicken Rice
- Customize the flavors: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, like peas, carrots, or spinach, to the dish. You can also use different seasonings to personalize the flavor profile.
- Make it ahead: Angel Chicken Rice is perfect for meal prepping. You can assemble the dish the night before, refrigerate it, and bake it when you’re ready to eat.
- Leftovers: This dish makes excellent leftovers, so don’t hesitate to make a double batch and enjoy it for lunch or dinner the next day.
Why You’ll Love Angel Chicken Rice
- Quick and Easy: With just a few basic ingredients, this dish comes together in no time, making it ideal for busy nights.
- Comfort Food: The creamy sauce and tender chicken make this a warm, satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
- Kid-Friendly: Angel Chicken Rice is a hit with kids thanks to its mild flavors and cheesy, creamy goodness.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a meal that’s both comforting and easy to prepare, Angel Chicken Rice is a fantastic option. The combination of chicken, rice, and creamy sauce makes for a dish that’s both filling and flavorful. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or preparing a family dinner, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your household. Try it out today and enjoy a wholesome, satisfying meal the whole family will love!
Serving and Storage Tips for Angel Chicken Rice
To ensure your Angel Chicken Rice remains delicious and easy to serve, here are some helpful tips for serving and storing the dish:
Serving Tips
- Garnish for Extra Flavor:
Add a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives on top of the casserole just before serving for a burst of color and a fresh, herbaceous flavor that complements the creamy richness of the dish. You can also top it with a little extra shredded cheese or crushed crackers for a delightful crunch. - Pair with a Side Salad:
Serve Angel Chicken Rice with a crisp side salad, such as a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette or a tangy coleslaw. The freshness of the salad will balance out the richness of the casserole. - Serve with Bread:
A warm slice of garlic bread or a soft dinner roll goes wonderfully with this dish. It’s perfect for soaking up any extra creamy sauce! - Make It a Complete Meal:
For a more rounded meal, serve the casserole alongside some roasted vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or green beans. This adds some texture and color to the plate.
Storage Tips
- Refrigerating Leftovers:
If you have leftovers, allow the Angel Chicken Rice to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to reheat thoroughly before serving. - Freezing:
You can freeze Angel Chicken Rice for later use. After cooling, transfer it into a freezer-safe container or cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It will keep in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, bake it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 30-40 minutes, or until it is heated through, adding a little extra sauce if needed to keep it moist. - Reheating:
For the best texture when reheating, warm up the casserole in the oven rather than the microwave, as the oven helps retain the crispy edges. If reheating in the microwave, cover the dish to prevent it from drying out and heat it in intervals, stirring occasionally.
Final Thoughts on Serving and Storing
With its rich, creamy flavor and satisfying nature, Angel Chicken Rice is a dish that’s not only perfect for a quick weeknight dinner but also makes for excellent leftovers. By following these serving and storage tips, you can enjoy this comforting meal even on days when you’re short on time.
1. Can I use a different type of rice for Angel Chicken Rice?
Yes, you can! While long-grain white rice is the most commonly used, you can substitute with other types of rice such as brown rice or jasmine rice. Keep in mind that different types of rice may require adjustments in cooking time or liquid amounts, so be sure to follow the specific instructions for the type of rice you’re using.
2. Can I make Angel Chicken Rice ahead of time?
Absolutely! Angel Chicken Rice is great for meal prepping. You can assemble the entire dish ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to cook, just pop it in the oven and bake as usual. This makes it a perfect option for busy weeknights or when hosting guests.
3. Can I add vegetables to Angel Chicken Rice?
Yes, adding vegetables is a great way to enhance the flavor and nutrition of this dish. Try adding peas, carrots, spinach, or even broccoli. If you’re using frozen vegetables, be sure to thaw them first to prevent excess moisture from affecting the texture of the casserole.
4. How do I store leftover Angel Chicken Rice?
Leftover Angel Chicken Rice can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. If you’d like to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 2-3 months. Be sure to reheat thoroughly, either in the oven or microwave, before serving again.
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Angel Chicken Rice
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5–6 hours (slow cooker) or 30 minutes (stovetop)
- Total Time: 6 hours or 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Slow Cooker or Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Angel chicken rice is a creamy, flavorful, and comforting dish made with tender chicken breasts, a rich sauce, and served over a bed of rice. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners and can easily be made in a slow cooker for added convenience.
Ingredients
For the chicken and sauce:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 packet (30 g) Italian salad dressing mix
- 1 can (300 g) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (or extra chicken broth for a non-alcoholic version)
- 1 package (225 g) cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the rice:
- 2 cups long-grain white rice, cooked according to package instructions
- 4 cups water or chicken broth
For garnish (optional):
- Chopped fresh parsley
- Grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken:
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Make the sauce:
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the cream cheese and stir until smooth and melted.
- Stir in the Italian dressing mix, condensed cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, white wine, and garlic powder. Cook for 2–3 minutes, whisking constantly, until the sauce is smooth and well combined.
- Cook the chicken:
- If using a slow cooker, place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker and pour the sauce over them. Cook on low for 5–6 hours or high for 2–3 hours, until the chicken is tender.
- If using the stovetop, place the chicken breasts in the skillet with the sauce. Cover and simmer over low heat for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
- Cook the rice:
- While the chicken cooks, prepare the rice according to the package instructions. Use chicken broth instead of water for added flavor.
- Serve:
- Spoon the cooked rice onto plates. Top with the chicken and generous amounts of the creamy sauce. Garnish with parsley or Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
- Substitute the cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken soup if preferred.
- You can use bone-in chicken thighs for added flavor; adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.