If you’re looking for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that’s easy to whip up yet packed with flavor, then this Creamy Angel Chicken Rice Casserole Recipe is just what you need. Imagine tender shredded chicken mingling with fluffy rice, all smothered in a luscious blend of cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and savory seasonings, topped with irresistible golden cracker crumbs and melted cheese. This casserole brings together simple ingredients that transform into a warm, satisfying meal perfect for weeknights or potlucks where everyone asks for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this casserole lies in its straightforward ingredients, each carefully chosen to create the perfect harmony of creaminess, texture, and flavor. From the sturdy base of cooked rice and shredded chicken to the creamy, seasoned sauce and crunchy topping, every element plays a crucial role in making this dish simply delicious.
- 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown): Provides a hearty and fluffy base that soaks up the creamy sauce beautifully.
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken: Rotisserie chicken works wonderfully for convenience and tenderness.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup: Adds rich, savory creaminess that binds the casserole together.
- 1 cup sour cream: Brings a tangy smoothness that balances the flavors perfectly.
- ½ cup chicken broth: Keeps the dish moist and adds depth to the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses a subtle warmth and aromatic quality.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Adds a gentle sweetness and complexity to the flavor profile.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the individual tastes without overpowering the dish.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Offers just the right hint of spice to wake up your taste buds.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend that lifts the casserole with herby goodness.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or mozzarella): Melts into gooey pockets of cheesy deliciousness.
- ½ cup crushed crackers (like Ritz): Gives a golden, buttery crunch topping that’s simply addictive.
- 2 tablespoons melted butter: Binds the cracker topping and adds a rich finish.
How to Make Creamy Angel Chicken Rice Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by setting your oven to a cozy 350°F (175°C). While it warms, lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish to prevent sticking and help with easy serving later.
Step 2: Whisk the Creamy Sauce
In a large bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and chicken broth until smooth and luscious. Now sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Whisk it all together until the sauce is perfectly blended, promising that comforting and delicious flavor we want in every bite.
Step 3: Combine Rice and Chicken
Stir your cooked rice and shredded chicken into the creamy sauce, making sure every bit gets evenly coated. This mixture is where the creamy goodness really starts to shine and hold everything together.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Pour and spread this heavenly mixture into your prepared casserole dish. Next, generously sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top, ensuring there will be that wonderful melted cheesy layer.
Step 5: Add the Crunchy Topping
Mix the crushed crackers with the melted butter in a small bowl. This buttery crumbly topping will give the casserole that beautiful golden crust that makes your heart sing. Sprinkle it evenly over the cheese layer.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place the casserole in the oven and bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is golden brown and the casserole bubbles with warmth—it’s like a warm hug waiting for you.
Step 7: Let It Rest
Once out of the oven, give the dish about 5 minutes to set. This pause helps the casserole hold its shape and makes serving effortless, plus it amps up the anticipation!
How to Serve Creamy Angel Chicken Rice Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Creamy Angel Chicken Rice Casserole Recipe, try garnishing with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a few thin slices of green onions. These add a pop of color and a fresh brightness that balances the rich flavors beautifully.
Side Dishes
This casserole is pretty much a meal on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or steamed seasonal veggies like broccoli or green beans adds a lovely contrast in texture and freshness. A light vinaigrette on the side cuts through the richness and makes it feel even more special.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun presentation twist, serve individual portions in small ramekins topped with a little extra shredded cheese and crushed crackers toasted under the broiler for a minute or two. It’s a charming way to turn this cozy casserole into a restaurant-worthy dish right at your own table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Simply cover any leftovers with plastic wrap or transfer them to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, your Creamy Angel Chicken Rice Casserole Recipe will stay fresh and tasty for up to 3 days—ready for a delicious second round!
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully if you want to batch prep meals ahead of time. Assemble the casserole but don’t bake it; cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and then bake as usual.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 325°F (163°C) covered with foil to keep it moist, heating for about 20 minutes or until warmed through. For a quicker fix, microwave portions covered with a microwave-safe lid for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring halfway to ensure even warming.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice adds a nuttier flavor and more fiber, making your casserole a little heartier. Just make sure the rice is fully cooked before mixing it in.
Is rotisserie chicken the best choice for this recipe?
Rotisserie chicken is excellent for convenience and flavor, but you can also use leftovers or cooked chicken breasts shredded at home. The goal is tender, juicy shredded chicken that blends well into the creamy sauce.
Can I make this casserole dairy-free?
With some ingredient swaps, yes! Use dairy-free sour cream and cheese alternatives, and ensure your cream of chicken soup is dairy-free or use a homemade substitute for the sauce base.
What other toppings can I try instead of crushed crackers?
Panko breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter are a fantastic crunchy topping alternative. You could also add a bit of grated Parmesan cheese for an extra flavor punch.
Can I double this recipe for larger gatherings?
Definitely! Just double all the ingredients and use a larger baking dish or two casserole dishes. Baking times might be slightly longer depending on depth, so keep an eye on the golden crust and bubbling edges.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Angel Chicken Rice Casserole Recipe is a warm, comforting dish that feels like a big, delicious hug from the inside out. It’s the kind of meal that brings people together effortlessly and keeps everyone coming back for more. If you haven’t tried it yet, I encourage you to gather these ingredients and treat your family or friends to this wonderfully creamy and cheesy delight.
Print
Creamy Angel Chicken Rice Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Creamy Angel Chicken Rice Casserole is a comforting and easy-to-make dish perfect for busy weeknights. Combining tender shredded chicken, cooked rice, and a creamy mixture of sour cream and cream of chicken soup, it is baked to golden perfection with a crunchy buttery cracker topping. This casserole delivers rich flavors and makes a satisfying meal that the whole family will enjoy.
Ingredients
For the Casserole:
- 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie works well)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or mozzarella)
For the Topping:
- ½ cup crushed crackers (like Ritz)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the perfect temperature by the time you’re ready to bake the casserole.
- Prepare Dish: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish to prevent the casserole from sticking during baking.
- Mix Creamy Base: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together cream of chicken soup, sour cream, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Combine Rice and Chicken: Stir in the cooked rice and shredded chicken into the creamy mixture, mixing thoroughly until everything is evenly coated.
- Assemble Casserole: Transfer the combined mixture to the prepared casserole dish, spreading it out evenly to create a uniform layer.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole to ensure a gooey cheesy layer when baked.
- Prepare Topping: In a small bowl, mix the crushed crackers with melted butter until evenly coated, then sprinkle this mixture over the cheese layer for a crunchy topping.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is heated through.
- Rest Before Serving: Let the casserole sit for 5 minutes after baking to allow it to set and make serving easier. Enjoy your creamy, comforting meal!
Notes
- Using rotisserie chicken can save time and add extra flavor.
- You can substitute the crackers topping with breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes for different textures.
- For a lighter version, consider using low-fat sour cream and reduced-fat cheese.
- This casserole can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated before baking; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
- Feel free to add vegetables like peas or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
