Angel Chicken Rice

Introduction:

Angel Chicken Rice is a divine dish that combines tender chicken, flavorful mushrooms, and creamy sauce served over a bed of fluffy rice. This heavenly recipe is not only incredibly delicious but also simple to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Join us as we delve into the steps to create this delightful dish and discover why it’s sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.

Ingredients:

• 3 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded
• 3 cups cooked rice
• ½ cup butter, room temperature and cubed
• 8 ounces cream cheese, room temperature and cubed
• 10.5 ounces cream of chicken soup
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 0.7 ounce Italian dressing mix (I used Good Seasons)
• 1 cup chicken stock
• 2 cups shredded Colby Jack cheese, divided use
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F, and generously spray a 9×13” casserole dish with cooking spray.
2. In a microwave-safe bowl, soften the cream cheese and butter in the microwave for 20-30 seconds. Whisk until smooth.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, rice, butter and cream cheese mixture, cream of chicken soup, garlic, Italian dressing mix, chicken stock, half of the shredded cheese, and salt and pepper. Mix well until evenly combined.
4. Transfer the chicken and rice mixture into the prepared casserole dish.
5. Top with the remaining shredded cheese.
6. Cover the dish with foil, and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the casserole is bubbling.
7. Remove from oven, and allow the casserole to cool for 5 minutes. Remove foil.
8. Garnish with fresh parsley, and enjoy.
9. Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
10. Kcal: 548 kcal | Servings: 8 servings

Serving Tips:

1. Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Before serving, garnish the Angel Chicken Rice with freshly chopped parsley or thyme. Not only does it add a pop of color, but it also enhances the flavor and aroma of the dish.
2. Pair with a Side Salad: Serve Angel Chicken Rice alongside a crisp green salad dressed with vinaigrette for a complete and balanced meal. The freshness of the salad complements the richness of the dish.
3. Crusty Bread: Accompany the dish with slices of crusty bread or dinner rolls to mop up the delicious creamy sauce. This adds texture and makes the meal more satisfying.
4. Individual Plating: For a more elegant presentation, consider plating the Angel Chicken Rice individually. Place a portion of cooked rice on each plate, top with a chicken breast, and ladle the creamy mushroom sauce over the chicken.
5. Serve with Steamed Vegetables: Steam some fresh vegetables such as broccoli, asparagus, or green beans to serve alongside the Angel Chicken Rice. It adds nutritional value and complements the richness of the dish.

Storage Tips:

1. Refrigeration: Store any leftover Angel Chicken Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to cool the dish completely before transferring it to the container.
2. Freezing: While you can freeze Angel Chicken Rice, keep in mind that the creamy sauce may separate slightly upon thawing. To freeze, portion the cooled dish into freezer-safe containers, leaving some room for expansion, and store for up to 2-3 months.
3. Reheating: When reheating refrigerated Angel Chicken Rice, transfer the desired portion to a microwave-safe dish and heat it in the microwave until heated through. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating. If reheating from frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
4. Revitalize the Sauce: If the sauce thickens upon refrigeration, you can revitalize it by adding a splash of chicken broth or milk while reheating. This will help restore the creamy consistency.
5. Best Enjoyed Fresh: While Angel Chicken Rice can be stored and reheated, it is best enjoyed fresh when the flavors are at their peak. Aim to consume it within a day or two for the best taste and texture.

FAQs:

1. Can I use bone-in chicken for Angel Chicken Rice?
   • Yes, you can use bone-in chicken pieces such as thighs or drumsticks instead of boneless chicken breasts. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the chicken is cooked through.
2. Can I make Angel Chicken Rice ahead of time?
   • Yes, Angel Chicken Rice can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving. However, it’s best to add the cream cheese to the sauce just before serving to maintain its creamy texture.
3. Can I use a different type of mushroom in this recipe?
   • Absolutely! While the recipe calls for sliced mushrooms, you can use your favorite variety such as cremini, button, or shiitake mushrooms. Feel free to experiment with different flavors and textures.
4. Is there a substitute for white wine in the recipe?
   • If you prefer not to use wine, you can substitute it with chicken broth or vegetable broth. The wine adds flavor and acidity to the sauce, but broth will still provide richness and depth of flavor.
5. Can I freeze Angel Chicken Rice?
   • Yes, Angel Chicken Rice can be frozen for future meals. However, keep in mind that the texture of the sauce may change slightly upon thawing. It’s best to freeze the chicken and sauce separately for better results.