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
Scale
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.
