If you are craving a warm, comforting meal that tastes like a big hug from Mom’s kitchen, you absolutely have to try Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe. This dish is a perfect blend of tender chicken, creamy soups, and fluffy rice baked to golden perfection with a cheesy, buttery topping that makes every bite feel like an instant celebration. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering with loved ones, this casserole brings effortless comfort, flavor, and nostalgia all in one pan. It’s a true Southern classic that stays close to the heart and is incredibly easy to prepare.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To create the magic of Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe, you’ll want to gather some simple yet incredibly essential ingredients that each add their own unique flavor and texture. From creamy soups to rich chicken broth and sharp cheddar cheese, every item plays a vital role in building that luscious casserole you’ll fall in love with.
- 3 cups cooked chicken: Use shredded or cubed chicken for versatile texture and hearty protein.
- 1 cup uncooked long grain white rice: Provides the fluffy base that absorbs all the creamy flavors perfectly.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup: Adds richness and that classic comfort food creaminess.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup: Introduces a subtle earthiness that balances the dish beautifully.
- 2 cups chicken broth: Keeps everything moist and infuses savory depth throughout the casserole.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Contributes tang and creaminess for a luscious mouthfeel.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Boosts savory flavor without overpowering.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Brings gentle sweetness and complexity.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the other flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds mild heat and spice to balance the creaminess.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into gooey, savory goodness on top.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted): Mixed with crumbs for a golden, crispy topping.
- 1/2 cup crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs (optional topping): Gives a delightful crunch contrast.
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional): Adds a fresh pop of color and herbaceous brightness.
How to Make Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and lightly greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. This ensures your casserole won’t stick and will bake evenly to develop that inviting golden crust.
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Base
In a large mixing bowl, stir together the uncooked rice, cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This creamy blend is the heart of Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe, soaking into the rice and chicken as it bakes.
Step 3: Add the Chicken
Fold your cooked chicken gently into the creamy mixture, making sure each piece gets coated. This step infuses the protein with all those comforting flavors and ensures every forkful is deliciously satisfying.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Pour the mixture into your greased baking dish and spread it out evenly. Then sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top. The cheese layer will melt and create that lush, savory blanket we all look forward to in Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe.
Step 5: Add the Crispy Topping and Bake
Mix the melted butter with the crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs if you’re using them, then sprinkle this golden mixture over the cheese. Cover the casserole tightly with foil and bake for 50 to 60 minutes until the rice is tender. For a beautifully browned top, remove the foil during the last 10 minutes of baking. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving to settle all those flavors.
How to Serve Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
To brighten up the dish visually and add a mild fresh flavor, a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley is a wonderful choice. It’s optional but really elevates the presentation and adds a pleasant herbal note that balances the creaminess.
Side Dishes
This casserole is pretty hearty on its own but pairs beautifully with a light green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette or roasted seasonal vegetables like asparagus or green beans. These fresh sides add textural contrast and keep your meal balanced.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, serve Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe in individual ramekins for a personalized touch. You can also try layering some sliced tomatoes or mushrooms on top before baking for added flavor and a rustic look that impresses guests effortlessly.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers of Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, so it often tastes even better the next day.
Freezing
If you want to prepare ahead or save leftovers long term, this casserole freezes well. Freeze it uncovered until solid, then wrap tightly with foil and plastic wrap. It can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing much flavor or texture.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen, then warm in a 350°F oven covered with foil until heated through. You can remove the foil for the last 5 minutes to crisp up the cheese topping again. This keeps the casserole moist and delicious.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking my own?
Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut that saves time and adds extra flavor to Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe. Just shred or cube it before mixing.
Is it possible to make this casserole dairy-free?
You can substitute dairy ingredients like sour cream and cheese with plant-based alternatives, but it will change the texture and taste slightly. Try coconut or cashew-based creams and vegan cheese for a similar creamy effect.
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Brown rice has a different cooking time and texture, so it’s not recommended to substitute it directly without adjusting the broth and baking time. Using white rice gives the best, tender results for this recipe.
What can I add to make this casserole more colorful and nutritious?
Try tossing in veggies like peas, diced carrots, or chopped spinach to add vibrant color and extra nutrients without overwhelming the delicate creamy flavors of Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe.
Can this casserole be reheated in a microwave?
Yes, leftovers can be reheated in the microwave. Cover the portion loosely and heat in short increments, stirring gently to distribute heat evenly. Keep in mind the texture might be less crispy than oven reheating.
Final Thoughts
Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe is one of those heartwarming dishes that never goes out of style. It’s incredibly easy to make, richly satisfying, and perfect for feeding a family or impressing guests with minimal effort. Once you try it, this casserole will undoubtedly become a staple in your weeknight meal rotation and a treasured recipe to pass down, just like Mamaw intended. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and dive into the delicious nostalgia of this soul-soothing casserole!
Print
Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern American
Description
Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole is a comforting Southern American classic featuring tender cooked chicken and creamy rice baked together with a savory blend of cream of chicken and mushroom soups. This easy-to-make casserole combines simple pantry ingredients with warm spices and a cheesy, crunchy topping, making it the perfect effortless dinner for family gatherings or weeknight meals.
Ingredients
Chicken and Rice Mixture
- 3 cups cooked chicken (shredded or cubed)
- 1 cup uncooked long grain white rice
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Topping
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
- 1/2 cup crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs (optional)
Garnish
- Chopped fresh parsley (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 and ensure easy cleanup.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the uncooked rice, cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and evenly blended.
- Add Chicken: Fold in the cooked chicken pieces gently, ensuring the chicken is evenly distributed within the mixture without breaking it up too much.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the entire mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly to create a uniform layer.
- Add Cheese Layer: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top of the rice and chicken mixture, covering the surface.
- Prepare Topping: In a small bowl, combine the melted unsalted butter with crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs if using. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the cheese layer to add a crunchy, golden crust after baking.
- Cover and Bake: Cover the casserole tightly with aluminum foil to trap moisture and bake in the preheated oven for 50 to 60 minutes, or until the rice is fully tender and cooked through.
- Brown the Top: Remove the foil during the last 10 minutes of baking. This step allows the cheese and crumb topping to brown and become slightly crispy without drying out the casserole.
- Rest and Serve: Once out of the oven, let the casserole rest for 5 minutes to set. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired, then serve warm for a delicious homemade meal.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for a quick, convenient option without sacrificing flavor.
- To prepare ahead, assemble the casserole and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add an extra splash of chicken broth before baking if the mixture seems dry.
- If you prefer a spicier flavor, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the mix.
- This casserole can be frozen after baking; wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven until warmed through.
