If you’re craving a soul-soothing dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, look no further than Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe. This timeless, creamy casserole combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, and rich soups that meld together into one irresistibly comforting meal. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, this recipe delivers a perfect balance of flavors and textures that will have everyone asking for seconds. Trust me, once you make Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe, it’ll become a treasured staple in your kitchen too.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe lies in its simple, trusty ingredients that each play a crucial role in making this dish truly special. Every component, from the creamy soups to the herbs and broth, comes together to create a luscious texture and a depth of flavor that is downright irresistible.
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced): Using pre-cooked chicken makes preparation easy and infuses hearty protein throughout.
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked): Provides the base that absorbs all the creamy goodness and keeps the dish cozy.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup: Adds rich, savory creaminess to the casserole.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup: Brings earthiness and depth, marrying perfectly with the chicken flavors.
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth: Keeps the rice moist and boosts the chicken essence.
- ½ cup milk: Adds to the creamy texture, making every bite smooth and comforting.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses subtle warmth without overpowering the dish.
- ½ teaspoon onion powder: Gives a mild, savory backdrop to enhance the overall taste.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle kick and balances the flavors.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Essential for bringing out all the savory notes.
- 1 tablespoon butter (cut into small pieces): Creates little pockets of richness on top as it melts during baking.
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional topping): Melts into a golden, gooey blanket giving a delightful finish.
- Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish, optional): Adds a burst of color and a fresh contrast to the creamy casserole.
How to Make Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Dish and Mix Ingredients
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish so your casserole won’t stick. In a large mixing bowl, combine the uncooked rice with both cans of creamy soup, chicken broth, milk, and the seasonings—garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir this mixture until it’s perfectly blended, creating a luscious base ready to soak up flavors.
Step 2: Add the Chicken and Pour Into the Dish
Carefully fold in the cooked chicken—shredded or diced, whichever you prefer—ensuring every bite will have a generous amount of tender protein. Pour this saucy mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly so it cooks uniformly.
Step 3: Add Butter and Bake Covered
Dot the surface of the casserole with small pieces of butter. This little touch adds a rich, buttery finish as it melts into the top. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil to lock in moisture, and bake for about 60 to 70 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the rice is tender, and most of the liquid has been absorbed, resulting in a creamy, hearty casserole.
Step 4: Cheese Topping and Final Bake
If you’re a fan of cheesy casseroles, uncover your dish during the last 10 minutes of baking and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Pop it back into the oven uncovered just long enough for the cheese to melt into a bubbly, golden layer. Once done, let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes to set before serving.
How to Serve Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley on top not only brightens up the casserole visually but provides a subtle herbaceous note that perfectly cuts through the creamy richness. It’s a simple addition that elevates the entire dish effortlessly.
Side Dishes
This casserole is a hearty meal on its own, but pairing it with steamed green beans or a crisp garden salad adds balance and freshness. Roasted vegetables or a tangy coleslaw also complement the creamy texture, providing contrast that keeps every bite exciting.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try spooning the casserole into individual ramekins or smaller baking dishes for personalized servings. This presentation works wonderfully for casual dinners or potlucks, making the dish feel a touch more special and homey at the same time.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, place any leftover casserole in an airtight container and refrigerate. It keeps beautifully for up to 3 days. This makes it perfect for lunches or quick dinners later in the week when you need comfort food without fuss.
Freezing
Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe also freezes well. To freeze, cover the prepared casserole tightly with foil or transfer portions to freezer-safe containers before you bake it. It can last up to 2 months in the freezer without losing much flavor or texture, ready to thaw and bake when you need a hearty meal in a hurry.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to preserve the creamy texture. Microwaving works too for a quick fix, but be sure to cover loosely to keep moisture in and stir occasionally for even heating.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice in Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe?
Absolutely! Brown rice adds a nuttier flavor and more fiber, but keep in mind you’ll need to increase the liquid slightly and bake the casserole longer until the rice is tender.
What type of chicken works best for this recipe?
Leftover rotisserie chicken is perfect because it saves time and adds extra flavor, but any cooked chicken breast or thigh meat shredded or diced works wonderfully.
Can I add vegetables to Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe?
Definitely! Frozen peas, sautéed mushrooms, or diced carrots stirred into the mix before baking are great additions that bring color and extra nutrition to the dish.
Is there a way to make this casserole creamier?
For extra creaminess, you can add a little more milk or even a dollop of sour cream to the mixture before baking. Just be careful not to add too much liquid or the casserole may become soupy.
How can I make Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe gluten-free?
Simply swap the canned soups for gluten-free versions and double-check that the broth and seasonings don’t contain gluten. That way, you keep all the comfort without the worry.
Final Thoughts
I genuinely can’t recommend Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe enough if you’re looking for a dish that combines simple ingredients with soulful flavor. It’s the kind of recipe that warms your heart as much as your stomach, an ideal family favorite that feels like home in every bite. Give it a try and watch it become one of your go-to comfort meals!
Print
Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 65 minutes
- Total Time: 75 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern American
Description
Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole is a comforting Southern American dish featuring tender chicken and fluffy rice baked in a creamy blend of chicken and mushroom soups, enriched with chicken broth, milk, and seasoned with garlic, onion, and black pepper. Topped with butter and optional cheddar cheese, this easy-to-make casserole is perfect for family dinners and utilizes leftover chicken for convenience.
Ingredients
Chicken and Rice Mixture
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced)
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth
- ½ cup milk
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
Toppings and Garnish
- 1 tablespoon butter (cut into small pieces)
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional topping)
- Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the uncooked rice, cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir the mixture until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Add Chicken: Gently fold the cooked shredded or diced chicken into the rice and soup mixture to ensure even distribution.
- Assemble Casserole: Pour the combined mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Dot the top of the casserole with small pieces of butter to enhance flavor and moisture during baking.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 60 to 70 minutes, or until the rice is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
- Add Cheese Topping (Optional): If using shredded cheddar cheese, uncover the casserole during the last 10 minutes of baking. Sprinkle the cheese evenly over the top and return the dish to the oven uncovered, allowing the cheese to melt.
- Rest and Garnish: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes to set. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired before serving.
Notes
- This recipe works well with leftover rotisserie chicken for added convenience.
- You can substitute brown rice; increase the liquid slightly and extend the baking time to ensure rice is fully cooked.
- Add frozen peas or sautéed mushrooms to the mixture for added vegetable nutrition and flavor.
