Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe

If you’re looking for a warm, comforting dish that tastes like it was made with love and a touch of nostalgia, you’re in the right place. I absolutely adore Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe because it’s simple, hearty, and always brings everyone to the table with smiles. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting, this casserole is a total winner that gives you that homey feeling with minimal fuss. Stick with me, and I’ll share all my tips so your version turns out just like Mamaw’s — or maybe even better!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

When I first tried Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe, I was amazed at how just a handful of ingredients blended together into something so delicious. The key is using good-quality soups and cooked chicken—you’ll find that they meld perfectly with the rice, creating that creamy, cozy texture that makes this recipe unforgettable.

• Cooked chicken breasts: Use leftover roasted chicken or quickly poach breasts for a tender bite; shredding or cubing works equally well.
• Instant white rice: I prefer instant rice here because it cooks evenly during baking without turning mushy.
• Water: Just plain to keep things light and make the perfect consistency with the soups.
• Cream of mushroom soup: Adds that earthy depth to the casserole’s flavor.
• Cream of chicken soup: This brings in the classic creamy chicken taste you expect in a comforting casserole.
• Cream of celery soup: A subtle but essential player for that homestyle savory vibe.
• Butter: Slices on top melt into golden goodness; don’t skip this step—it makes all the difference!
• Salt: Balances out all the flavors just right.
• Black pepper: For a touch of warmth and a little kick.

Variations

I love that Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe is so flexible—you can easily tailor it to what’s in your pantry or to dietary needs. Over time, I discovered a few fun twists that keep this dish exciting while staying true to its roots. Don’t be shy to mix it up to make it truly your own!

• Make it cheesy: Adding a cup of shredded cheddar or mozzarella to the mixture gives it a melty, dreamy vibe that my kids beg for every time.
• Switch up the soups: Try cream of broccoli or cream of zucchini for a veggie boost and a slightly different flavor profile.
• For gluten-free: Double-check your cream soups or swap in homemade versions to keep the casserole safe and just as delicious.
• Add veggies: Peas, carrots, or frozen mixed veggies stirred in add color and nutrition without extra fuss.

How to Make Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prep the Dish

Start by setting your oven to 400°F. While it warms up, lightly grease your baking dish—this ensures that gorgeous golden crust Mamaw’s casserole gets without sticking. I usually use a 9×13-inch dish for this recipe. It’s the perfect size so the casserole cooks evenly and doesn’t dry out.

Step 2: Mix the Creamy Base

In a large bowl, stir together cream of mushroom, cream of chicken, and cream of celery soups with the water until it’s beautifully smooth. This trio gives the casserole its signature rich, comforting sauce with just the right consistency—no clumps, no lumps. You want this silky so it seeps nicely into the rice as it cooks.

Step 3: Add Chicken, Rice, and Seasonings

Next, toss your cooked chicken and instant rice into the soup mixture. Sprinkle with salt and black pepper—don’t skimp here! Seasoning is key to bringing the whole dish together, and it’ll shine through in every bite.

Step 4: Transfer to Baking Dish and Top it Off

Carefully spoon the mixture into your greased baking dish. Then, scatter the sliced pats of butter evenly over the casserole’s surface. Don’t skip this step—I learned the hard way that this little touch adds luscious richness and helps brown the top gorgeously.

Step 5: Bake Until Perfectly Done

Pop it into the oven and bake for about 60 to 75 minutes, until the rice is tender and the chicken is hot through. I usually start checking around the 60-minute mark by poking the rice; it should be soft but not mushy. If the top looks like it’s browning too fast, you can loosely cover it with foil. The result is a creamy, bubbling casserole with a delicate, buttery crust on top.

How to Serve Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe

Garnishes

I like to sprinkle fresh chopped parsley or chives on top just before serving—not just for the pop of color, but that mild herbaceous flavor adds freshness that cuts through the richness. Sometimes a little shredded cheese is also a nice touch if you’re feeling indulgent.

Side Dishes

Simple green salads with a tangy vinaigrette are my go-to sides because they balance the creaminess of the casserole. Roasted or steamed veggies like green beans or broccoli are easy, too. I’ve even paired this with some crusty bread to scoop up every last bite—trust me, your dinner guests will be using their bread as a utensil!

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I sometimes bake the casserole in individual ramekins—it makes for a charming single-serving presentation. Another idea I love is topping each portion with crispy fried onions for some extra crunch and flavor contrast. It turns this humble dish into something a little fancy without any extra work.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After dinner, I let the casserole cool to room temperature and then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 3-4 days without losing texture or flavor. Just know it might firm up a bit because the rice continues to absorb moisture.

Freezing

Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe freezes surprisingly well. I usually bake it fully, then freeze individual portions in airtight containers or freezer bags. When you’re ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat—this way, you always have a quick, comforting meal on hand.

Reheating

For leftovers, I reheat gently in the oven at 350°F covered with foil to keep moisture, or zap in the microwave with a damp paper towel over the top. Either way, adding a little extra butter or a splash of milk before reheating helps restore that creamy texture.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe is one of those timeless dishes that feels like home, no matter where you are. I always keep frozen chicken breasts and canned soups on hand just so I can whip this up when I need a little comfort food boost. It’s straightforward, forgiving, and endlessly delicious—exactly what you want from a family favorite. Give it a try, and I promise it’ll become your go-to casserole, too.

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