Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe

If you’re looking for a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal that feels like a warm hug from the inside out, then you absolutely need to try Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe. It’s been a beloved staple in my family for years, and every time I make it, the house fills with this cozy aroma that screams home-cooked goodness. I’m excited to share this recipe with you because it’s straightforward, packed with flavor, and perfect for busy weeknights or feeding a hungry family. Trust me, once you make this casserole, it’ll likely become a favorite in your rotation, too.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe works harmoniously to build that creamy, savory, and hearty flavor we crave. I like to use cooked chicken breasts because they shred easily and soak up the creamy sauce beautifully.

• Cooked chicken breasts: Using pre-cooked chicken makes this casserole a quick assembly job. Leftovers work great too!
• Instant white rice: It cooks perfectly in the oven without needing pre-cooking, saving time and effort.
• Water: Helps cook the rice within the casserole, keeping everything moist.
• Cream of mushroom soup: Adds earthiness and depth to the sauce.
• Cream of chicken soup: Brings creamy richness and binds the casserole together.
• Cream of celery soup: Provides that subtle aromatic flavor you almost don’t notice but makes a big difference.
• Butter: Sliced butter on top melts into golden pockets, adding richness and a melt-in-your-mouth finish.
• Salt: Essential for balancing flavors and enhancing every bite.
• Black pepper: Adds a subtle kick to cut through the creaminess.

Variations

I love how versatile Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe is, so I often tweak it to keep things exciting or meet different dietary needs. Feel free to make it your own!

• Adding Vegetables: I sometimes toss in frozen peas or chopped carrots for color and nutrition—my family doesn’t even notice it’s there!
• Cheesy Twist: Sprinkle shredded cheddar or mozzarella on top before baking for a golden cheesy crust. It’s a total game changer.
• Low Sodium Version: Use low-sodium soups and reduce the added salt to keep it heart-healthy without sacrificing flavor.
• Brown Rice Swap: If you prefer a nuttier flavor, brown rice works, but you’ll want to pre-cook it since it takes longer to bake.

How to Make Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Get Your Oven and Dish Ready

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (that’s important for a perfectly cooked casserole). Lightly grease your baking dish so nothing sticks – I use a bit of butter or cooking spray. This little prep step ensures a smooth release when you’re ready to dig in.

Step 2: Create Your Creamy Soup Base

In a large bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom, cream of chicken, and cream of celery soups with the water. Stir until it’s nice and smooth. This combo of soups is what gives Mamaw’s casserole that incredible creamy texture and layered flavor. I discovered that blending them well here prevents any clumps and creates an even sauce throughout.

Step 3: Mix in Chicken and Rice

Next, add your cooked chicken — cubed or shredded, whichever you prefer — along with the instant rice into the soup mixture. Sprinkle in the salt and black pepper and stir gently until everything is evenly combined. This is where the magic starts to happen, and I always make sure my chicken pieces are well-coated so every bite is flavorful.

Step 4: Assemble and Add Butter

Carefully spoon the mixture into your greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Then, place the slices of butter across the top of the casserole. Those butter pats might seem simple, but they melt into little golden pools that make this dish irresistibly rich and indulgent. I never skip this step!

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake your casserole for 60 to 75 minutes. You’ll want to keep an eye on it toward the end—the rice should be fully cooked and fluffy, the chicken heated through, and the top delightfully golden with melted butter. If your casserole looks a bit dry, loosely cover it with foil during baking to keep moisture in. After baking, let it rest 5-10 minutes before serving to thicken up.

How to Serve Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe

Garnishes

I love sprinkling fresh chopped parsley or green onions on top just before serving — the burst of color makes the dish pop on the plate and adds a fresh, subtle zing that balances the creamy casserole. Sometimes, a few dashes of hot sauce or paprika can add a nice touch too.

Side Dishes

Because Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole is so hearty on its own, I usually pair it with a simple side like steamed green beans or a crisp garden salad. Roasted vegetables or even some crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce work beautifully as well. These sides add freshness and texture contrast that I’ve found really rounds out the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a family gathering, I like to bake individual portions in small ramekins topped with cheese or crispy fried onions. It feels special and makes serving a breeze. For potlucks, you can jazz it up by layering the casserole with sautéed mushrooms or even some bacon bits in between layers. It elevates the flavors while keeping things easy.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After it cools, I like to transfer leftovers to an airtight container and pop it in the fridge. It usually stays delicious for up to 4 days. Just be sure to reheat it gently to prevent drying out—adding a splash of water or broth helps bring back that creamy texture.

Freezing

I’ve successfully frozen this casserole by baking it first, then cooling completely before wrapping tightly in foil and placing it in a freezer-safe container. It freezes well for up to 3 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven until piping hot.

Reheating

Reheating in the oven works best for me to keep that cozy baked texture intact. I cover it with foil at 350°F and warm for about 20-30 minutes. For a quicker option, the microwave’s fine—you just want to add a drizzle of water and cover loosely to avoid drying.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

Honestly, Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe holds a special place in my heart because it’s comfort food at its best—simple, hearty, and made with love. Every time I serve it, I’m reminded of family dinners and lazy Sundays, and I hope it brings that same feeling to your table. Give it a try, tweak it your way, and enjoy the cozy magic it brings. Once you do, you’ll totally understand why my family goes crazy for this casserole every time!

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