Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe
If you’re searching for a dish that feels like a warm hug from the inside, look no further than Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe. This comforting casserole combines tender, juicy chicken, fluffy rice, and a luscious medley of creamy soups to create a timeless, soul-satisfying meal. It’s the kind of recipe that brings family together around the table, evokes happy memories, and reminds you that simple ingredients can turn into something truly extraordinary.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a vital role in building layers of flavor, texture, and nostalgia. The beauty of Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe lies in its simplicity; you only need basic pantry staples and fresh chicken to make magic happen.
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed: Tender and lean, they provide the hearty protein base for the dish.
- 2 cups instant white rice: Cooks quickly and soaks up all those amazing creamy flavors.
- 2 cups water: Moistens the rice just right, helping it steam to fluffy perfection.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup: Adds rich, savory creaminess essential for comfort food vibes.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of celery soup: Brings a subtle earthiness and depth to the casserole.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup: Infuses a gentle umami flavor that makes every bite irresistible.
- ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste): Enhances all the natural flavors without overpowering the dish.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a mild kick and balances the rich cream soups.
- 4 tablespoons butter, sliced into pats: Melts on top, creating golden, buttery pockets of goodness throughout.
How to Make Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Dish
Start by heating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s warming up, grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish — this will prevent the casserole from sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
Step 2: Combine the Main Ingredients
In the prepared casserole dish, mix the cubed chicken breasts, instant white rice, and water together. Then, add the cream of chicken, celery, and mushroom soups. Stir everything thoroughly until every piece of chicken and grain of rice is swimming in that creamy goodness.
Step 3: Season and Add Butter
Sprinkle the salt and black pepper evenly on top of the mixture to season the dish perfectly. Finally, arrange the butter slices on the surface in an even layer — these little pats will melt down during baking, giving the casserole a delicious richness and golden top.
Step 4: Bake Until Perfectly Cooked
Place the casserole in the oven uncovered and bake for between 1 hour and 1 hour 15 minutes. The rice needs to become tender and fluffy, and the chicken should be cooked through and juicy. You’ll know it’s ready when the top starts bubbling and the butter has melted into the creamy mixture.
Step 5: Rest Before Serving
Pull the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 10 to 15 minutes. This wait allows everything to set up nicely—making it easier to serve and letting the flavors mingle even more deeply.
How to Serve Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or thyme can add a pop of color and a fresh note to this rich casserole. If you want a little texture contrast, sprinkle some toasted breadcrumbs or crispy fried onions on top right before serving.
Side Dishes
Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe is hearty on its own, but it pairs beautifully with light, crisp salads or steamed green vegetables like broccoli or green beans. A tangy coleslaw or simple roasted carrots also make perfect companions for a well-rounded meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the casserole in individual ramekins or mini cast-iron skillets — they make every portion feel special and cozy. You might even scoop it into hollowed-out bell peppers for a vibrant and inviting presentation that everyone will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer leftover casserole to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to develop, making leftovers just as satisfying as the fresh bake.
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully! Portion it into freezer-safe containers or wrap the whole dish tightly with foil and plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Just be sure to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best texture.
Reheating
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil for about 20-30 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions on medium power in short bursts, stirring occasionally to heat evenly without drying out the dish.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs add a bit more juiciness and flavor. Just be sure to cut them into similar-sized cubes for even cooking.
Is instant rice necessary, or can I use regular rice?
Instant rice works best because it cooks fully during the baking time. Using regular rice might require extra liquid and longer cooking, which could affect the casserole’s texture.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Since the recipe relies on butter and creamy soups, you’ll want to use dairy-free butter substitutes and find dairy-free cream soups to keep it creamy and delicious.
What if I don’t have all three types of cream soup?
No worries! You can substitute with two types or even double one type you prefer. Each combination offers a slightly different flavor profile but will still result in a comforting casserole.
How do I know when the casserole is done?
Once the rice is tender and all the liquid has absorbed, and the chicken is cooked through (no pink inside), your casserole is ready. The top should be bubbling, and the butter melted into golden patches.
Final Thoughts
If you want a heartfelt, fuss-free meal that warms both body and soul, you owe it to yourself to try Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe. It’s a classic that never fails to bring comfort, smiles, and that cozy feeling of home. Gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and get ready to enjoy a truly special dish that’ll quickly become a family favorite.
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Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole is a comforting and hearty baked dish combining tender cubed chicken, instant white rice, and a creamy blend of chicken, celery, and mushroom soups. This easy-to-make casserole is perfect for family dinners, offering a rich, flavorful meal that requires minimal preparation and cooks to perfection in the oven.
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 Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it reaches the perfect temperature for baking the casserole evenly.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish thoroughly with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Combine Ingredients: In the greased casserole dish, add the cubed chicken breasts, instant white rice, water, cream of chicken soup, cream of celery soup, and cream of mushroom soup.
- Mix Thoroughly: Stir all ingredients together in the dish until they are evenly combined ensuring chicken and rice are well coated with soups.
- Season: Sprinkle salt and black pepper over the mixture according to your taste preferences.
- Add Butter Topping: Evenly distribute the sliced pats of butter on top of the casserole mixture. This will help create a rich, golden finish.
- Bake: Place the casserole uncovered in the preheated oven. Bake for 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes or until the rice is tender and chicken is fully cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
- Rest: Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to sit for 10 to 15 minutes. This resting period allows the casserole to set and makes serving easier.
- Serve: Serve the casserole warm and enjoy this comforting homemade dish.
Notes
- Ensure chicken is cut into small, evenly sized cubes for uniform cooking.
- You can adjust the salt and pepper according to dietary needs or preferences.
- Using instant rice significantly reduces cooking time; do not substitute with regular rice without adjusting water and time.
- Letting the casserole rest after baking helps the flavors to meld and the texture to firm up.
- For a crispier top, broil for 2-3 minutes after baking but watch closely to avoid burning.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
