Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole

Oh boy, let me tell you about Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole. This dish? It’s pure comfort in a baking dish. Warm, creamy, and just like a big ol’ hug from the kitchen.

I’ve made this casserole more times than I can count, and it never fails to hit the spot. It’s simple, but somehow, it tastes like it took all day. Just a few pantry staples, a little mixing, and boom—dinner’s done.

The best part? It’s loaded with tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a rich, savory sauce that makes you want seconds (or thirds). It’s the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table fast. And the leftovers? Even better the next day.

So, if you need a no-fuss, belly-warming dinner, this is it. Let’s get that oven preheated and make some magic. Trust me, Mamaw knew exactly what she was doing!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Timeless Classic: A beloved dish that has stood the test of time.
• One-Pan Wonder: Everything bakes together in one dish, reducing cleanup.
• Creamy & Comforting: A rich combination of soups, butter, and tender chicken.
• Simple Ingredients: Pantry-friendly items make this an easy go-to meal.
• Kid-Approved: Even picky eaters love the creamy texture and mild flavor.

What You Need to Know Before You Start

Prep & Cook Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Servings

This recipe serves 6 people as a main dish.

Difficulty

Beginner-friendly. Simple steps make it easy for anyone to prepare.

Required Kitchen Tools

To make this comforting casserole, gather the following tools:

• 9×13-inch Baking Dish – Ensures even cooking.
• Mixing Bowl – For combining ingredients before baking.
• Measuring Cups & Spoons – Accuracy helps maintain the perfect texture.
• Aluminum Foil – Helps trap moisture while baking.
• Knife & Cutting Board – For cubing the chicken.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you need to make Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole:

• Chicken Breasts (cubed) – Tender and juicy pieces of protein.
• Instant White Rice – Quick-cooking rice absorbs flavors beautifully.
• Water – Helps cook the rice to fluffy perfection.
• Cream of Chicken Soup – Adds a creamy, savory base.
• Cream of Celery Soup – Provides a subtle depth of flavor.
• Cream of Mushroom Soup – Enhances the richness with an earthy note.
• Butter (sliced into pats) – Melts into the casserole for extra indulgence.
• Salt & Ground Black Pepper – Simple seasoning to enhance the dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create a creamy and satisfying chicken and rice casserole.

1. Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and allow it to preheat while you prepare the ingredients.

2. Prepare the Rice

In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of instant white rice with 2 cups of water. Stir gently and let it sit for a few minutes. The rice will start absorbing moisture, helping it cook evenly in the oven.

3. Add the Soups

Pour the cream of chicken soup, cream of celery soup, and cream of mushroom soup into the bowl with the rice. Stir everything together until the mixture becomes smooth and well-blended.

4. Season the Mixture

Add salt and ground black pepper to taste. Stir well to distribute the seasoning evenly. The soups already contain some salt, so taste as you go to avoid over-seasoning.

5. Layer the Ingredients in the Baking Dish

• Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
• Pour the rice and soup mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom.
• Arrange the cubed chicken breasts evenly on top of the rice mixture. Press them down slightly so they absorb some of the flavors while baking.

6. Add the Butter

Place thinly sliced pats of butter across the top of the casserole. This will melt as it bakes, creating a rich, buttery finish.

7. Cover and Bake

• Cover the dish with aluminum foil to trap in moisture.
• Bake for 45 minutes at 350°F.

Finishing the Casserole

8. Remove the Foil and Continue Baking

• After 45 minutes, carefully remove the aluminum foil.
• Return the casserole to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 15 minutes. This helps the top develop a slight golden color and allows any excess moisture to evaporate, ensuring the rice is perfectly cooked.

9. Check for Doneness

• The chicken should be fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F or 75°C).
• The rice should be tender and fully absorbed into the creamy mixture.
• If the casserole looks too thick, you can gently stir in a few tablespoons of warm water to loosen it.

10. Let it Rest

• Remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for 5-10 minutes before serving.
• This allows the flavors to settle and the texture to firm up slightly for the best serving experience.

How to Serve Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole

This dish is hearty enough to serve on its own, but you can enhance your meal with these pairings:

• Steamed Vegetables – Broccoli, green beans, or carrots add a fresh contrast to the creamy casserole.
• Side Salad – A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness.
• Garlic Bread or Dinner Rolls – Great for scooping up every last bite of creamy sauce.

For a complete meal, consider adding a glass of iced tea or fresh lemonade—both complement the cozy flavors of this dish.

Storing and Reheating

Storing Leftovers

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: This casserole freezes well! Allow it to cool completely, then wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating Instructions

• Oven: Cover with foil and reheat at 325°F (160°C) for 20 minutes, or until heated through.
• Microwave: Place a portion on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals until warm.

Variations for Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole

Customize the Flavors

• Cheesy Version: Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese into the rice mixture and sprinkle extra cheese on top before baking.
• Vegetable Add-Ins: Mix in 1 cup of frozen peas, corn, or diced carrots for extra texture and nutrition.
• Herb Boost: Add 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, parsley, or Italian seasoning for enhanced flavor.
• Spicy Twist: Mix in ½ teaspoon of smoked paprika or a dash of hot sauce for a little kick.
• Mushroom Lovers: Sauté fresh mushrooms and mix them into the casserole before baking.

Tips and Tricks for Success

• Use Rotisserie Chicken: If you’re short on time, swap the raw cubed chicken for shredded rotisserie chicken and reduce baking time by 10-15 minutes.
• Don’t Overbake: Check the casserole after 45 minutes. If the rice is done, you can remove it earlier.
• Rest Before Serving: Let the casserole sit for at least 5-10 minutes after baking to help it set.
• Make it Creamier: For extra richness, stir ½ cup of sour cream into the mixture before baking.

Nutrition Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	410 kcal
Protein	28g
Carbohydrates	45g
Fat	14g
Saturated Fat	6g
Fiber	1g
Sodium	880mg

(Values are approximate and depend on ingredient brands.)

Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole FAQs

Can I use regular rice instead of instant rice?

Yes, but you’ll need to adjust the water ratio and baking time. Use 1 ½ cups of long-grain white rice and 3 cups of water, then bake covered for about 1 hour 15 minutes.

Can I make this in advance?

Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking. Add an extra 10 minutes of baking time if starting from cold.

How can I make this a one-pot meal?

Use a Dutch oven instead of a baking dish. Sauté the chicken first, then add the rice, soups, and water before baking directly in the same pot.

Conclusion

Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole is a nostalgic, no-fail recipe that brings warmth to the table with its creamy, comforting flavors. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal-prepping for the week, this dish is a reliable go-to. Try it as written, or customize it with your favorite add-ins.