Angel Chicken Rice

Angel Chicken Rice

Posted on January 18, 2025
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Angel Chicken Rice is a creamy, dreamy, and utterly comforting dish that combines tender chicken, flavorful rice, and a rich, velvety sauce. This recipe is easy to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. The combination of savory cream cheese, buttery Italian flavors, and fluffy rice makes it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Whether you serve it for a dinner party or a casual meal, this dish will have everyone asking for seconds. Let’s dive into this simple yet satisfying recipe!

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 packet (1 oz) dry Italian salad dressing mix
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Sauce:

  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
  • 4 oz cream cheese (softened)
  • ½ cup chicken broth
  • ½ cup dry white wine (optional, or substitute with additional chicken broth)
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley

For the Rice:

  • 2 cups long-grain white rice (or jasmine rice)
  • 4 cups chicken broth (for cooking the rice)
  • 1 tablespoon butter

Optional Garnishes:

  • Chopped fresh parsley
  • Grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Rice

  1. In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken broth and butter to a boil.
  2. Add the rice, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender. Remove from heat and let it rest, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork before serving.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Season the chicken breasts with the Italian salad dressing mix, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper.
  3. Sear the chicken in the skillet for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

  1. In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, softened cream cheese, chicken broth, and white wine (if using).
  2. Whisk the ingredients together until smooth and creamy. Stir in the dried parsley.

Step 4: Combine and Simmer

  1. Return the seared chicken to the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over the top.
  2. Cover and simmer on low heat for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F).

Step 5: Serve

  1. Plate a generous serving of rice and top it with the creamy chicken and sauce.
  2. Garnish with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve warm.

Tips

  1. Rice Options: Swap white rice for brown rice, wild rice, or even quinoa for added texture and nutrition. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
  2. Short on Time: Use precooked or microwaveable rice to save time.
  3. Wine Substitution: If you don’t use wine, substitute with equal parts chicken broth for a flavorful sauce.
  4. Cheese Variations: Add shredded mozzarella, Parmesan, or Gouda to the sauce for extra richness.

Storage Instructions

  • Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
  • Freeze: Cool completely, then freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
  • Reheat: Warm in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or milk to loosen the sauce if needed.

Variations

  1. Spicy Angel Chicken: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for a spicy kick.
  2. Vegetable Addition: Stir in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or peas for added nutrition and flavor.
  3. Low-Carb Option: Serve the chicken and sauce over cauliflower rice or steamed broccoli instead of rice.
  4. Baked Angel Chicken: Transfer the chicken and sauce to a baking dish and bake at 375°F for 25-30 minutes.

Nutrition Details

Per Serving (Approximate, based on 4 servings):

  • Calories: 490
  • Total Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Cholesterol: 120mg
  • Sodium: 950mg
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 3g
  • Protein: 33g

FAQ

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Place the chicken in the slow cooker, pour the sauce over it, and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Prepare the rice separately and serve.

What’s the best way to ensure tender chicken?

Don’t overcook the chicken. Use a meat thermometer to check that it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and work beautifully in this recipe.

What sides pair well with Angel Chicken Rice?

Steamed green beans, roasted asparagus, or a crisp garden salad make excellent sides for this dish.