There’s something irresistibly comforting about a warm, creamy casserole fresh from the oven. Angel Chicken and Rice Casserole is one of those dishes that feels like a big, cozy hug after a long day. Tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a rich, creamy sauce come together in a dish that’s as easy to make as it is to love.

This recipe has become a favorite in my home, especially on chilly evenings when comfort food is all we crave. With its one-pan convenience and soul-soothing flavors, it’s no wonder it’s earned a permanent spot in my meal rotation.

Let’s dive into this heavenly recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Angel Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe

Angel Chicken and Rice Casserole is more than just a meal – it’s a dish that brings everyone to the table with its comforting aroma and hearty goodness.

It’s a one-pan wonder. With everything baked together in a single dish, you’ll save time on prep and cleanup.

It’s creamy and flavorful. The combination of cream cheese, butter, and Italian dressing mix creates a rich and tangy sauce that perfectly coats the chicken and rice.

It’s budget-friendly. Made with simple, affordable ingredients, this dish is easy on the wallet while still feeling indulgent.

It’s make-ahead friendly. Prepare it in advance and pop it in the oven when you’re ready – perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests.

Once you try it, you’ll see why this casserole has “angel” in its name – it’s simply divine!

Ingredients Notes

The secret to this dish’s irresistible flavor lies in its straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients.

Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best, but thighs are a great alternative if you prefer a juicier texture.
White rice: Long-grain rice is ideal for this recipe as it cooks evenly and absorbs the flavors of the sauce.
Cream cheese: This adds creaminess and a hint of tang to the dish. Use softened cream cheese for easy mixing.
Butter: A small amount of butter enriches the sauce and enhances the dish’s overall flavor.
Italian dressing mix: A packet of dry Italian dressing mix is the key to the casserole’s bold, zesty taste.
Chicken broth: This keeps the rice moist and flavorful as it bakes.
Cream of chicken soup: A can of this classic soup provides the casserole’s creamy base.

For equipment, you’ll need a 9x13-inch baking dish and a mixing bowl for the sauce.

How To Make This Angel Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe

This casserole is as easy to make as it is to devour. Follow these steps to create a meal that will have everyone asking for seconds:

Preheat and prepare. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
Prepare the rice. Spread the uncooked rice evenly across the bottom of the baking dish.
Layer the chicken. Arrange the chicken breasts on top of the rice. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper for added flavor.
Make the sauce. In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, softened cream cheese, melted butter, and Italian dressing mix. Whisk until smooth and well blended. Gradually stir in the chicken broth until the sauce reaches a pourable consistency.
Assemble the casserole. Pour the sauce evenly over the chicken and rice, ensuring the liquid fully covers the rice. Cover the dish tightly with foil to trap the steam.
Bake and finish. Bake the casserole for 50-60 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender. Remove the foil during the last 10 minutes for a golden, bubbly finish. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.

This recipe takes just over an hour from start to finish, making it perfect for a comforting dinner without too much fuss.

Storage Options

Angel Chicken and Rice Casserole stores well, making it a great option for leftovers or meal prep.

In the fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
In the freezer: Freeze the fully cooked casserole in portions for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating tip: Add a splash of chicken broth or water when reheating to keep the rice and sauce from drying out.

Variations and Substitutions

This versatile casserole is easy to customize based on your preferences or what you have on hand:

Add vegetables: Stir in frozen peas, diced carrots, or sautéed mushrooms for extra nutrients and flavor.
Use brown rice: Swap white rice for brown rice for a nuttier taste and a boost of whole grains. Note that you may need to adjust the cooking time.
Try different proteins: Substitute the chicken with turkey, pork chops, or even shrimp for a unique twist.
Spice it up: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a subtle kick.
Make it gluten-free: Use a gluten-free cream of chicken soup and ensure your Italian dressing mix is gluten-free.

This recipe is as flexible as it is delicious, so feel free to make it your own!

Rich, creamy, and oh-so-comforting, Angel Chicken and Rice Casserole is the kind of meal that turns an ordinary evening into something special. Whether you’re feeding a family or treating yourself, this dish delivers pure joy in every bite. So preheat your oven and let this heavenly casserole work its magic!