If you’re craving a cozy, comforting meal that feels like a warm hug from the inside, you simply must try Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe. This dish beautifully combines tender, juicy chicken with fluffy instant rice and a creamy medley of soups that create a spectacularly rich and flavorful casserole. It’s the kind of recipe that brings people together around the table, stirring up nostalgia and new memories all at once. Easy to throw together and hard to put down, Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe is truly a timeless classic that will have you reaching for seconds (and maybe thirds) without hesitation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients may be simple pantry staples, but each one plays a crucial role in building the delicious taste and comforting texture of Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe. The combination of creamy soups brings depth, the chicken adds heartiness, and the rice soaks up all those lovely flavors.
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed: Tender, lean protein that cooks evenly and blends perfectly with the rice.
- 2 cups instant white rice: Soaks up all the creamy goodness while cooking to fluffy perfection.
- 2 cups water: Hydrates the rice and melds the ingredients together into a cohesive casserole.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup: Adds a savory, comforting base bringing rich chicken flavor.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of celery soup: Contributes subtle herbaceous notes and smooth texture.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup: Provides earthiness and depth for a well-rounded taste.
- ½ tsp salt (or to taste): Enhances all the flavors, balancing the creaminess.
- ½ tsp black pepper: Adds a helpful hint of spice to keep each bite interesting.
- 4 tbsp butter, sliced into pats: Melts on top, creating a golden, luscious finish as it bakes.
How to Make Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preparing Your Oven and Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready. While it warms up, take a 9×13-inch casserole dish and give it a good greasing to prevent any sticking and to make cleanup easier. This simple prep sets the stage for effortless cooking.
Step 2: Mixing the Magic
In the prepared casserole dish, combine the cubed chicken, instant rice, and water. Then add all three types of cream soups—chicken, celery, and mushroom. Each one brings its own flavor profile to the recipe, blending into a creamy, comforting base that absorbs into the rice beautifully.
Step 3: Season and Butter It Up
Season the mixture with salt and black pepper to taste, stirring everything until it’s evenly mixed. The seasoning elevates the entire casserole, balancing the rich soups with a little brightness. Top the dish evenly with the sliced pats of butter placed across the surface; as it melts, it will infuse the casserole with a silken richness and create a gorgeous golden crust.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Place the dish uncovered in the oven and bake for 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is thoroughly cooked. During baking, the rice absorbs all those luscious soup flavors, and the butter melts into a beautiful finish. Once out of the oven, allow it to rest for 10-15 minutes—this helps everything set just right and makes serving easier.
How to Serve Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley, a little grated sharp cheddar, or even a handful of toasted breadcrumbs can add an exciting textural element and pop of color that elevates the dish from cozy to something special.
Side Dishes
Pair this casserole with a crisp green salad or steamed fresh vegetables like green beans or broccoli to balance the richness. A tangy coleslaw or roasted carrots would also be fantastic options that complement the creamy texture of the casserole.
Creative Ways to Present
For a family gathering, serve Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe in individual ramekins topped with a little extra buttery crust and fresh herbs. For a potluck, a big casserole dish straight from the oven, surrounded by fresh bread or rolls, makes a wonderful centerpiece everyone will love to dig into.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The casserole often tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen, so you have a delicious lunch or dinner ready to go.
Freezing
You can freeze any unused portion of Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe by transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Be sure to cool it completely beforehand. It will keep well for up to 2 months and thaw nicely in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through, adding a splash of water or broth if it seems too thick. Cover with foil in the oven to prevent drying out, and enjoy the comforting flavors just as fresh as the first time.
FAQs
Can I use fresh chicken instead of cubed chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Just make sure to cut the chicken into even pieces so they cook through evenly. Fresh chicken adds a lovely texture and flavor to the casserole.
Is it necessary to use all three types of cream soup?
Each cream soup brings a unique flavor—chicken adds savoriness, celery lends a subtle herbal note, and mushroom offers earthiness. You can adjust based on preference, but using all three creates the signature creamy blend of Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe.
Can I substitute brown rice or regular rice for instant rice?
Instant rice is recommended here because it cooks perfectly in the casserole’s liquid. Brown or regular rice require longer cooking times and additional liquid, so they may not cook evenly in this recipe as written.
How do I make this recipe dairy-free?
Try using dairy-free butter alternatives and check for cream soup options that are labeled dairy-free, or make homemade creamy soups using vegetable broth and non-dairy milk for a tasty swap.
Can I add vegetables to Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe?
Definitely! Frozen peas, chopped carrots, or diced bell peppers are great small additions. Just stir them in with the rice and soup mixture before baking to add color and nutrition.
Final Thoughts
There’s something heartwarming and incredibly satisfying about Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe that feels like coming home after a long day. It’s humble ingredients coming together in the best way to create an unforgettable dish you’ll want to keep making. Invite a few friends or family over, share this recipe, and watch their faces light up with every spoonful. I promise, once you try it, Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe will hold a special place in your heart and your kitchen forever.
Print
Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole is a comforting, hearty baked dish featuring tender cubed chicken, instant white rice, and a creamy blend of three classic soup flavors. This easy-to-make casserole is perfect for a family dinner, combining simple pantry staples into a flavorful, satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Chicken and Rice Mixture
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into cubes
- 2 cups instant white rice
- 2 cups water
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of celery soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- ½ tsp salt (or to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
Topping
- 4 tbsp butter, sliced into pats
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Prepare Casserole Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish thoroughly to prevent sticking.
- Combine Ingredients: In the greased casserole dish, mix together the cubed chicken, instant white rice, water, cream of chicken soup, cream of celery soup, and cream of mushroom soup.
- Mix Well: Stir all ingredients until evenly combined to ensure consistent flavor and cooking.
- Season: Add salt and black pepper to taste, adjusting according to preference.
- Add Butter Topping: Evenly distribute the sliced pats of butter over the top of the mixture for a rich, buttery finish.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes. Bake until the rice is tender and the chicken is thoroughly cooked.
- Rest: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for 10-15 minutes to settle and cool slightly prior to serving.
- Serve: Enjoy the casserole warm as a delicious and hearty meal.
Notes
- You can adjust the seasoning with more or less salt and pepper according to taste.
- If you prefer, substitute instant white rice with instant brown rice but expect longer cooking time.
- Butter adds richness; for a lighter option, reduce butter or use margarine.
- Letting the casserole rest after baking helps it set and makes it easier to serve.
- This dish reheats well and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
