There’s something about a comforting casserole that makes you feel at home, no matter where you are. This Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole is a family favorite that has been passed down through generations. Simple, hearty, and delicious, it evokes memories of cozy dinners around the table with loved ones. For many, it’s a dish that brings back childhood nostalgia, with its creamy texture, tender chicken, and fluffy rice that soak up all the savory flavors. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or craving a comforting meal for yourself, this dish is sure to deliver warmth and satisfaction.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort food. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity—just a few basic ingredients come together to create a rich, flavorful casserole that’s filling and comforting. The rice becomes tender and absorbs all the savory chicken flavor, while the creamy sauce holds everything together, making it the perfect one-pan meal. It’s also incredibly versatile, so feel free to make it your own by adding extra veggies or herbs.

this RECIPE FOR LATER

INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED:

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
• 1/4 cup butter, melted
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• Salt to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

HOW TO MAKE Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole:

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Rice: Begin by cooking the rice according to package directions. You can use leftover rice for this recipe if you have it on hand. Set it aside once it’s done.
2. Sauté the Onion: In a large pan, melt a tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. This step adds a wonderful depth of flavor to the dish, making it aromatic and savory.
3. Mix the Casserole Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cooked rice, cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, chicken broth, melted butter, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and black pepper. Stir everything together until well-combined, making sure the rice is evenly distributed in the creamy mixture.
4. Assemble the Casserole: Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with cooking spray or butter. Pour the chicken and rice mixture into the prepared dish, spreading it out evenly.
5. Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the casserole with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until it’s heated through and bubbly.
6. Add Cheese (Optional): After 30 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole. Return to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
7. Garnish and Serve: Once the casserole is done, remove it from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and added freshness. Serve warm, and enjoy the comforting flavors!

Helpful Tips:

• Make It Ahead: This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. This is perfect for busy nights or when you want to prepare a meal in advance.
• Substitute the Meat: While this recipe uses chicken, you can easily substitute it with turkey, beef, or even a vegetarian option like beans or tofu if you prefer.
• Add Veggies: You can sneak in some extra veggies like peas, carrots, or even spinach to make the casserole even more nutritious and colorful. Just sauté them along with the onion before mixing into the casserole.
• Extra Creaminess: If you love extra creamy casseroles, you can add a little extra sour cream or even cream cheese to make it even richer.

DETAILS:

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings
• Category: Casserole
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Optional for gluten-free or dairy-free (with modifications)

NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION (per serving):

• Calories: 430
• Fat: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Protein: 22g
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 720mg

STORAGE INSTRUCTIONS:

• Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or in the oven, adding a little broth if needed to loosen up the sauce.
• Freezer: This casserole freezes well! After baking, let it cool completely and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.

Related Recipes:

If you liked Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole, here are some other comforting casserole recipes you’ll enjoy:

• Broccoli Cheddar Chicken and Rice Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food

• Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole

Conclusion:

Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole is the kind of dish that brings people together. It’s simple, delicious, and always a hit at the dinner table. Whether you’re making it for a family gathering, a cozy weeknight meal, or prepping it ahead for busy days, this casserole is sure to bring warmth and smiles to your home. With just a few basic ingredients, it’s a reminder that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated to be satisfying.