Angel Chicken Rice Recipe

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Introduction

Angel Chicken Rice is a creamy, comforting dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings. This recipe combines tender chicken breasts, flavorful rice, and a rich, creamy sauce made from cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, and cream cheese. The addition of Italian dressing seasoning mix brings a burst of flavor, while Parmesan cheese and garlic powder add savory notes. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned chef, this dish is easy to prepare and delivers delightful results every time.

Ingredients for Angel Chicken Rice

To make this delicious Angel Chicken Rice recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
    • Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the main protein in this dish. You can also substitute with chicken thighs if you prefer a juicier cut.
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice
    • Long-grain rice works best for this recipe because it cooks evenly in the oven and absorbs the creamy sauce perfectly.
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
    • This soup is the base for the creamy sauce. It adds richness and flavor to the dish.
  • 1 cup chicken broth (low sodium)
    • Low-sodium chicken broth provides moisture for the rice while keeping the sodium levels in check.
  • 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
    • Softened cream cheese enhances the creaminess of the sauce, adding a smooth texture to the dish.
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
    • Parmesan cheese gives a nutty, salty flavor that complements the creamy sauce.
  • 1 packet (0.7 oz) Italian dressing seasoning mix
    • Italian dressing mix brings zesty, herb-infused flavor to the dish.
  • 1 tablespoon butter
    • Butter is used to sauté the ingredients and adds a touch of richness to the sauce.
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
    • Garlic powder enhances the overall flavor profile with a hint of savory depth.
  • Salt and pepper to taste
    • These staple seasonings are essential to balance the flavors in the dish.
  • Fresh parsley (for garnish)
    • Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness to the final presentation.

Directions and Preparation Method

  1. Preheat the Oven
    • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your dish cooks evenly and at the right temperature.
  2. Grease the Baking Dish
    • Take a 9×13-inch baking dish and grease it with butter or cooking spray. This step helps to prevent the rice and chicken from sticking to the dish during baking.
  3. Prepare the Creamy Sauce
    • In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, softened cream cheese, and Italian dressing seasoning mix. Cook and stir the mixture until it becomes smooth and creamy. This creamy sauce will act as the liquid that the rice absorbs and as the flavorful topping for the chicken.
  4. Layer the Rice and Chicken
    • Spread the uncooked rice evenly across the bottom of the greased baking dish. Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts on top of the rice, spacing them evenly to ensure even cooking.
  5. Pour the Sauce Over the Chicken and Rice
    • Pour the prepared creamy sauce over the chicken breasts and rice, making sure the sauce covers everything evenly. This ensures the rice absorbs the sauce while the chicken cooks, resulting in a flavorful and moist dish.
  6. Season with Garlic Powder, Salt, and Pepper
    • Sprinkle the garlic powder, salt, and pepper over the top of the creamy sauce. These seasonings will enhance the flavor of the chicken and rice as they bake.
  7. Bake the Dish
    • Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake the dish for 45-50 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the rice is tender. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  8. Add Parmesan Cheese
    • Once the chicken is cooked and the rice is tender, remove the dish from the oven. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the chicken and rice. Place the dish back in the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 5 minutes to melt the cheese.
  9. Garnish and Serve
    • Remove the dish from the oven and allow it to rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve the Angel Chicken Rice hot, with your favorite side dish or salad.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

  • Yes, you can substitute brown rice for white rice, but keep in mind that brown rice requires a longer cooking time. You may need to increase the baking time by an additional 15-20 minutes or pre-cook the brown rice slightly before adding it to the baking dish.

2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

  • Absolutely! You can prepare the dish up to the point where you pour the sauce over the chicken and rice. Cover it tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and let it come to room temperature before baking as directed.

3. What can I serve with Angel Chicken Rice?

  • This dish is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs well with a side of roasted vegetables, a fresh green salad, or steamed broccoli. For extra flavor, you can also serve it with garlic bread or dinner rolls.

4. Can I freeze the leftovers?

  • Yes, you can freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw the dish overnight in the fridge and reheat it in the oven or microwave.

5. How can I make this dish healthier?

  • To make this dish healthier, you can use low-fat cream cheese, reduced-fat Parmesan cheese, and a lighter cream of mushroom soup. You can also add more vegetables, such as spinach or peas, to boost the nutrient content.

6. Can I substitute the chicken breasts with another protein?

  • Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs, turkey breasts, or even pork chops in place of the chicken breasts. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as different cuts of meat may require more or less time to cook through.

7. What if I don’t have Italian dressing seasoning mix?

  • If you don’t have Italian dressing seasoning mix, you can make a quick substitute by combining 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1 teaspoon of dried basil, 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder.

8. Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

  • Absolutely! You can add vegetables like chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the rice layer before adding the chicken and sauce. This will add extra nutrition and flavor to the dish.

Conclusion

Angel Chicken Rice is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. The combination of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked rice creates a comforting meal that the whole family will love. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have this delicious dinner on the table in under an hour. Whether you’re new to cooking or an experienced home chef, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite. Plus, with the option to customize it with different proteins or vegetables, Angel Chicken Rice can easily be adapted to suit your preferences. Give it a try and enjoy the rich flavors and comforting textures of this easy-to-make dish!

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