Angel Chicken Casserole: A Deliciously Easy Recipe for Family Dinners
Angel Chicken Casserole: A Deliciously Easy Recipe for Family Dinners
Every home cook craves that one dish that brings everyone around the table, and Angel Chicken Casserole is just that! This creamy, cheesy delight has earned its place in family favorites, particularly on busy weeknights. The blend of tender chicken, savory rice, and rich sauces creates a comforting meal that’s not only satisfying but also incredibly easy to prepare. From my kitchen to yours, let’s dive into why this recipe should be your go-to for family dinners!
Why you’ll love this dish
What makes Angel Chicken Casserole so special? For starters, it’s a one-pan wonder that combines simple ingredients into a sumptuous meal. You’ll appreciate the minimal prep time and the fact that it’s incredibly budget-friendly. Plus, the kids love it – what’s not to like about cheesy chicken goodness?
Imagine a Friday night after a long week: you want something comforting without spending hours in the kitchen. This dish checks all the boxes. It’s delightful for family gatherings or even a potluck, bringing smiles with every bite.
“This casserole is a game-changer! Easy to make and tastes like a hug in a dish!” – A delighted home cook.
The cooking process explained
Let’s break down how to create this culinary masterpiece. The process is simple: start by seasoning and searing your chicken breasts for that perfect golden crust. Then, whip up a luscious creamy mixture packed with flavor. Combine these elements in a baking dish for a scrumptious meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Ingredients You’ll Need
To prepare this delectable casserole, gather the following:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup uncooked white rice
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Feel free to swap out the creams with low-fat versions or choose a different cheese if you’re looking to customize!
Step-by-step instructions for your casserole
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika to enhance flavor.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Sear the seasoned chicken breasts for about 5-7 minutes on each side, until they are golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and chicken broth. Mix until smooth.
- Add the softened cream cheese (cut into smaller chunks) to the bowl and blend until creamy, either with a whisk or an electric mixer.
- Fold in the uncooked white rice, shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped green onions until well combined.
- Lightly grease a baking dish (9×13 inches) and place the seared chicken breasts in the bottom.
- Pour the creamy rice mixture over the chicken, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
- After 45 minutes, remove the foil and return the casserole uncovered to the oven. Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
- Allow it to sit for 10 minutes before serving, garnishing with fresh parsley if using.
Best ways to enjoy it
To elevate your dining experience, serve Angel Chicken Casserole with a simple side salad or some steamed vegetables. The freshness balances the richness of the casserole beautifully. You could also offer warm, crusty bread to soak up all that creamy goodness!
Storage and reheating tips
If you have leftovers (which is rare, but it happens!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can easily reheat it in the microwave or oven; just cover it to keep moisture in. Freeze portions for up to 2 months for a quick meal on a busy day!
Helpful cooking tips
- For extra flavor, consider marinating your chicken in a mixture of olive oil, garlic powder, and a sprinkle of lemon juice an hour before cooking.
- To enhance the dish, add a handful of your favorite vegetables like peas or bell peppers into the creamy mixture before baking.
- If you prefer a crispy topping, sprinkle some crushed crackers or breadcrumbs with melted butter over the casserole during the last 10 minutes of baking.
Creative twists
- Swap out the chicken for cooked shredded beef or turkey for a hearty alternative.
- Make it a Mexican-style casserole by adding black beans, corn, and taco seasoning into the mix.
- For a lighter take, try cauliflower rice instead of white rice for a lower-carb version!
Common questions
How long does it take to prepare this casserole?
From preparation to baking, you’re looking at about an hour and 15 minutes. The cooking itself takes about an hour, but the hands-on prep time is minimal!
Can I use other types of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with mozzarella, pepper jack, or any cheese that melts well. Each will give the casserole a unique twist.
Is it possible to make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, this casserole can be assembled a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and store it in the fridge. Bake it right before serving!
With its rich flavor and comforting ingredients, Angel Chicken Casserole is sure to become a favorite in your home. Perfect for weeknight dinners or whenever you want to impress with minimal effort, this dish allows you to serve up smiles without the stress! Enjoy cooking!
Angel Chicken Casserole
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Sear the seasoned chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden and cooked through.
- Remove the chicken and set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and chicken broth. Mix until smooth.
- Add the softened cream cheese and blend until creamy.
- Fold in the uncooked rice, shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped green onions.
- Lightly grease a 9x13 baking dish and place the seared chicken in the bottom.
- Pour the creamy rice mixture over the chicken evenly.
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
- Allow to sit for 10 minutes before serving, garnishing with fresh parsley if desired.
