Oh, let me tell you about my absolute favorite comfort food: angel chicken casserole! This dish has a special place in my heart because it reminds me of cozy family dinners where everyone gathers around the table, and the aroma of creamy goodness fills the air. It’s incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when I have friends over. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a comforting meal that’s rich in flavor and satisfaction. Trust me, once you try this angel chicken casserole, it’ll quickly become a staple in your kitchen too! It’s like a warm hug in a dish!

Ingredients List

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded – I love using rotisserie chicken for a quick option, but any cooked chicken works great!
1 can cream of chicken soup – This adds a rich, creamy base that ties everything together beautifully.
1 cup sour cream – For that extra creaminess and a slight tang that balances the flavors perfectly.
1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded – I always go for sharp cheddar because it brings a bold flavor to the dish.
1 cup broccoli florets – Fresh or frozen, it adds a nice crunch and a burst of color!
1 cup cooked rice – This makes the casserole hearty and filling. I like to use white rice, but brown rice works too!
1 teaspoon garlic powder – Just the right amount to give it that delicious savory kick.
1 teaspoon onion powder – A little onion flavor goes a long way in this dish!
Salt and pepper to taste – Always taste as you go; it makes a world of difference!

How to Prepare Instructions

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial because it ensures your casserole gets that golden, bubbly top!
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken with the cream of chicken soup and sour cream. Use a spatula to mix it all together until it’s nice and smooth. This creamy mixture is the heart of your casserole!
Next, sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Don’t be afraid to taste your mixture at this point—it’s all about building that flavor!
Add in the broccoli florets and cooked rice, along with half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir everything together until well combined. You want every bite to have a bit of everything, trust me!
Now, transfer this luscious mixture into a greased baking dish. Spread it out evenly, and then it’s time to top it off with the remaining cheddar cheese. Who doesn’t love extra cheese, right?
Pop it in the oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s heated through and bubbly—oh, the smell will be heavenly!
Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps everything set up a bit, making it easier to scoop out those delicious portions. Enjoy!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Rich and creamy flavor that comforts the soul—it’s like a hug on a plate!
Uses simple ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry.
Versatile enough to swap in your favorite veggies or leftovers—get creative!
Bakes up beautifully with a cheesy, bubbly top that’s impossible to resist.
Great for meal prep—make it ahead of time and just pop it in the oven when you’re ready.
Kid-approved! Even the pickiest eaters will devour this dish.
Leftovers reheat wonderfully, making it a fantastic option for easy lunches.

Tips for Success

Alright, let’s make sure your angel chicken casserole turns out absolutely perfect! Here are some of my best tips:

Use leftover chicken: If you’ve got some leftover rotisserie chicken or turkey, this is the perfect recipe to use it up! Just shred it and toss it in. It’ll add tons of flavor without any extra cooking time.
Don’t skimp on seasoning: Always taste your mixture before baking! A little extra salt or pepper can make a huge difference in flavor. Feel free to adjust the garlic and onion powder to suit your taste too!
Cheese options: While I love sharp cheddar, you can mix it up! Try Monterey Jack for a milder flavor or even a blend of cheeses for extra gooeyness. You could even add some mozzarella on top for that stretchy cheese vibe!
Vegetable variations: Want to sneak in more veggies? Go for it! Peas, bell peppers, or even spinach work great in this casserole. Just make sure to chop them small so they mix in nicely.
Make ahead: You can prepare the casserole a day in advance! Just assemble it in the baking dish, cover it tightly, and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, just increase the cooking time a bit since it’ll be cold from the fridge.
Watch the baking time: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your casserole as it bakes. Look for that golden bubbly top and delicious aroma to know it’s ready!
Let it rest: After pulling it from the oven, let it sit for about 5-10 minutes. This helps everything set and makes it easier to serve without it falling apart.

Nutritional Information

When it comes to comfort food, I always find it helpful to know the nutritional values, especially if I want to enjoy it guilt-free! Here’s an estimated breakdown for one serving of this delicious angel chicken casserole:

Calories: 400
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 80mg
Sodium: 800mg
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 2g
Protein: 30g

Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. It’s nice to have a comforting dish that also packs a bit of protein, right? Enjoy every bite knowing it’s not just tasty but also fills you up!

FAQ Section

Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?
Absolutely! If you have frozen chicken, just make sure to cook it thoroughly before shredding and adding it to the casserole. You can even cook it in the slow cooker or Instant Pot for convenience!

What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup?
If you want to make this dish a bit lighter or avoid cream of chicken soup, you can use homemade creamy mushroom soup or even a mixture of plain yogurt and chicken broth for a healthier twist.

Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
Yes! This angel chicken casserole is already gluten-free as long as you ensure the cream of chicken soup is gluten-free. You can also check for gluten-free rice and any other ingredients you use.

How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Just reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through, and it’ll still taste fantastic!

Can I add more vegetables to the casserole?
Definitely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or even zucchini. Just chop them small so they blend well with the other ingredients, and they’ll add even more flavor and nutrition!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Now, let’s talk about how to keep that angel chicken casserole fresh and delicious for later! If you’ve got any leftovers (which I’m sure you will, because it’s so good!), simply let the casserole cool completely before storing it. Then, transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll stay good in the fridge for about 3-4 days, so you can enjoy those comforting flavors again!

When it comes to reheating, I recommend using the oven to really bring back that bubbly goodness. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), cover the casserole with aluminum foil to keep it from drying out, and pop it in for about 20-25 minutes, or until it’s heated through. If you want to get that cheese all melty again, remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking—trust me, it’s worth it!

If you’re in a hurry, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave. Just pop a serving on a microwave-safe plate, cover it with a damp paper towel, and heat for about 1-2 minutes, checking to see if it’s warm all the way through. Either way, you’ll be back to enjoying that creamy goodness in no time!

Variations

One of the best things about angel chicken casserole is how versatile it is! You can really get creative with this dish by swapping in different ingredients to match your taste or what you have on hand. Here are some fun ideas:

Vegetable Medley: Mix in other vegetables like diced bell peppers, peas, or even corn for a burst of color and flavor. Just remember to chop them small to ensure they blend well!
Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley for an aromatic touch. I love tossing in a bit of fresh dill for a unique twist!
Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a bit of heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or add diced jalapeños. It adds a whole new dimension to the casserole!
Cheesy Goodness: Experiment with different cheeses! Try mozzarella for that gooey texture, or pepper jack for a zesty kick. You could even mix a couple of your favorites!
Protein Boost: For a heartier dish, throw in some cooked sausage or bacon bits. They will bring a savory richness that complements the chicken beautifully.
Whole Grain Switch: Swap out the white rice for brown rice or quinoa for a healthier grain option that adds more fiber and nuttiness.
Sweet Potato Swap: For a twist, use diced sweet potatoes instead of regular rice. They’ll add a lovely sweetness that pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce!

Feel free to mix and match these variations to create your own signature angel chicken casserole. The possibilities are endless, and I can’t wait for you to find your favorite combo!

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to enjoying your angel chicken casserole, I love to think of it as the star of the show, but it’s always nice to have some supporting characters to round out the meal! Here are some delicious ideas to serve alongside your casserole for a complete dining experience:

Fresh Salad: A crisp green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette is a perfect complement. It adds a refreshing crunch that balances the creamy casserole beautifully!
Garlic Bread: Who can resist warm, buttery garlic bread? It’s great for soaking up any extra creamy sauce left on your plate. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up!
Steamed Vegetables: Keep it simple with a side of steamed veggies like green beans or carrots. They’ll add a pop of color and nutrition without stealing the spotlight!
Mashed Potatoes: If you’re feeling extra indulgent, creamy mashed potatoes are a wonderful pairing. They’re like a cozy, comforting hug next to your casserole!
Rice Pilaf: For a different take, try serving it over a fluffy rice pilaf. The extra flavors in the pilaf can elevate the meal and make it feel a bit more gourmet.
Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad for dessert can refresh your palate and provide a sweet finish to the meal. Think berries, melon, and a drizzle of honey!

Mix and match these sides to create your perfect meal. Trust me, these additions will make your angel chicken casserole even more enjoyable, and everyone will leave the table satisfied!

Angel Chicken Casserole: 7 Comforting Reasons to Indulge

Print Recipe

A creamy and flavorful chicken casserole that’s easy to prepare.

Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 can cream of chicken soup
1 cup sour cream
1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
1 cup broccoli florets
1 cup cooked rice
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large bowl, mix together the chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and seasonings.
Add in the broccoli, rice, and half of the cheese. Stir until combined.
Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
Top with the remaining cheese.
Bake for 30-35 minutes or until heated through and bubbly.
Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

You can substitute cooked turkey for chicken.
Add your favorite vegetables for more flavor.
This casserole can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the fridge before baking.

Author: Juanita A. Smith
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Gluten Free

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 400
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 800mg
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 30g
Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: angel chicken casserole