Name: Cheesy Angel Chicken and Rice Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1 cup long grain white rice; 2 cups chicken broth; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/4 cup sour cream; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tablespoon butter; 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional); Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

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The Cheesy Angel Chicken and Rice Recipe is pure comfort food magic: juicy, well-seasoned chicken breasts nestled atop creamy, cheesy rice, all baked together in one pan for a dish that’s as easy as it is irresistible. Every bite is brimming with savory goodness, melty cheese, and a hint of herbs, making this recipe a weeknight hero and a crowd-pleaser at gatherings. If you’re looking for a satisfying dinner that promises big flavor with minimal effort, this is the one to bookmark.

Cheesy Angel Chicken and Rice Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t believe how a handful of straightforward pantry and fridge staples can come together to create such a showstopping meal! Each ingredient in this Cheesy Angel Chicken and Rice Recipe plays a crucial role, building layers of flavor, luscious texture, and golden cheesy appeal.

Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless breasts are lean, tender, and soak up all the flavors beautifully.
Olive oil: Gives the chicken a gorgeous golden sear and a subtle, fruity undertone.
Italian seasoning: A balanced blend that infuses the dish with herby warmth.
Garlic powder: Adds savory depth without overpowering the other flavors.
Salt: Brings all the elements together and enhances the overall taste.
Black pepper: Lends a touch of gentle heat and complexity.
Long grain white rice: Toasts up beautifully and soaks in all the creamy, cheesy goodness.
Chicken broth: Infuses the rice with extra flavor and keeps everything moist and tender.
Heavy cream: The key to that ultra-creamy, luxurious texture.
Cheddar cheese: Melty, sharp, and golden — the star of the cheesy layer.
Mozzarella cheese: For that dreamy, stretchy cheese pull everyone loves.
Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, salty kick that rounds out the flavor profile.
Sour cream: Delivers a subtle tang that keeps the richness in check.
Butter: Toasts the rice to nutty perfection and adds a hint of richness.
Paprika (optional): Sprinkling this adds a pop of color and mild smokiness.
Chopped fresh parsley: The perfect bright green finish for freshness and flair.

How to Make Cheesy Angel Chicken and Rice Recipe

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Start by patting your chicken breasts dry, then sprinkle them generously with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. This simple rub forms the foundation of flavor for the Cheesy Angel Chicken and Rice Recipe, making sure every bite of chicken is savory and aromatic.

Step 2: Sear for Flavor

Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet or casserole dish over medium-high. Sear the seasoned chicken for 2 to 3 minutes per side, just until lightly golden. This quick step locks in juices and gives the chicken an enticing color. Once seared, set the chicken aside on a plate.

Step 3: Toast the Rice

In the same skillet, melt the butter and add your uncooked long grain white rice. Toast the rice for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring constantly. This little trick boosts the nutty flavor of the rice and prevents it from becoming mushy later — a secret weapon for perfect texture in the Cheesy Angel Chicken and Rice Recipe!

Step 4: Build the Creamy Base

Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle boil, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom (they’re flavor gold!). Stir in the heavy cream, sour cream, and paprika if using. Then add the cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses, stirring until mostly melted into a luscious, creamy sauce.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

Nestle the seared chicken breasts right into the rice and cheese mixture, making sure they’re partially submerged. Cover the pan tightly with foil and bake at 375°F for 30 to 35 minutes, until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through. If you love a golden, bubbly top, remove the foil and broil for 2 to 3 minutes at the end — pure Cheesy Angel Chicken and Rice Recipe bliss!

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Finish your masterpiece by sprinkling chopped fresh parsley over the top. Serve it hot, straight from the skillet, and watch those cheesy strands stretch as you scoop out each portion. The aroma alone will have everyone racing to the table!

How to Serve Cheesy Angel Chicken and Rice Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh parsley is classic, adding a burst of color and a hint of herby brightness to the Cheesy Angel Chicken and Rice Recipe. For a little extra flair, try a dusting of paprika or even a squeeze of lemon for some zing, especially if you like to highlight the creamy richness.

Side Dishes

This recipe is hearty all by itself, but it pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables to balance the richness. Steamed broccoli, sautéed green beans, or a crisp cucumber salad are all refreshing accompaniments that round out the meal without stealing the spotlight.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this dish family-style in the skillet for a cozy, rustic feel, or plate each chicken breast atop a bed of cheesy rice for an elegant touch. For gatherings, scoop it into individual ramekins or mini casseroles — everyone gets their own bubbly, golden-topped portion of Cheesy Angel Chicken and Rice Recipe!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Cheesy Angel Chicken and Rice Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors meld and become even more delicious, making for a fantastic next-day lunch or quick dinner.

Freezing

To freeze, let the dish cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers. It stays fresh for up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture.

Reheating

Reheat gently in the oven, covered with foil, at 350°F until hot throughout. You can also microwave single servings, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed to restore creaminess. A quick broil at the end will bring back that irresistible cheesy top!

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but brown rice takes longer to cook and will need more liquid. If you substitute, increase the chicken broth and extend the bake time until the rice is tender.

Is it possible to make Cheesy Angel Chicken and Rice Recipe with precooked or rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! Simply skip the searing step and stir shredded rotisserie chicken into the cheese and rice mixture just before baking. It’s a fantastic shortcut for busy nights.

What are some vegetable add-ins that work well?

Frozen peas, baby spinach, or chopped broccoli are delicious additions. Stir them into the rice mixture before baking for a boost of color and nutrition.

Can I substitute angel hair pasta for the rice?

Yes, and it’s a classic twist! Cook the pasta separately, reduce the chicken broth to 1 cup, and follow the rest of the recipe as directed. The creamy sauce coats the pasta beautifully.

Is Cheesy Angel Chicken and Rice Recipe gluten-free?

As written, it’s naturally gluten-free if your chicken broth and seasonings are certified gluten-free. Always check labels to be sure, especially if serving someone with sensitivities.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a cozy, crowd-pleasing meal that’s as easy to make as it is delicious, you can’t go wrong with the Cheesy Angel Chicken and Rice Recipe. Gather your ingredients, follow these simple steps, and treat yourself and your loved ones to golden, cheesy, chicken-filled goodness tonight!

Cheesy Angel Chicken and Rice Recipe

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4.6 from 12 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

This Cheesy Angel Chicken and Rice dish is a comforting, creamy one-pan meal featuring tender chicken breasts nestled in a luscious blend of cheeses, creamy sauces, and perfectly cooked rice. It’s easy to prepare, baked to perfection, and offers rich flavors balanced with a hint of Italian seasoning, making it a satisfying dinner for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Seasoning

4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Rice and Liquids

1 cup long grain white rice
2 cups chicken broth
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup sour cream

Cheeses

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Additional Ingredients

1 tablespoon butter
1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional)
Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

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Instructions

Preheat and Season: Preheat your oven to 375°F. Season the chicken breasts evenly with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to ensure the chicken is flavorful.
Sear Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet or casserole dish over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until lightly browned. Remove the chicken and set aside to retain juices and lock flavor.
Toast Rice: In the same skillet, add butter and then the uncooked rice. Stir and toast the rice for 1 to 2 minutes to enhance its nuttiness and add depth to the dish.
Add Liquids and Cream: Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Stir in heavy cream and sour cream, along with paprika if using, to create a creamy base for the rice to cook in.
Incorporate Cheeses: Add shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and grated Parmesan cheeses to the skillet. Stir until the cheeses are mostly melted, creating a rich, cheesy mixture.
Combine Chicken and Bake: Nestle the seared chicken breasts into the creamy rice mixture evenly. Cover the skillet tightly with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes or until the rice is tender and chicken is cooked through.
Brown the Top: Remove the foil and broil the dish for 2 to 3 minutes if you desire a golden brown, bubbly cheese crust on top.
Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for a fresh burst of color and flavor. Serve the dish hot for a comforting and hearty meal.

Notes

This recipe can be made with angel hair pasta instead of rice by cooking the pasta separately and using 1 cup of broth.
Rotisserie chicken can be used instead of raw chicken breasts; stir it in before baking for convenience.
Adding peas or fresh spinach before baking adds nutrients and color to the dish.
For a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half for heavy cream and use reduced-fat cheeses.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American