Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that instantly transports you back to cozy family gatherings and Sunday suppers. This dish is creamy, satisfying, and wonderfully simple, yet tastes like a little bit of culinary magic straight from Mamaw’s kitchen. The tender chicken, dreamy blanket of creamy soups, and fluffy, flavorful rice all meld together in a single casserole for a meal that’s as dependable as it is delicious. If you’re craving that special, home-cooked goodness, Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole is the perfect crowd-pleaser to bring to your table.

Mamaw's Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole lies in its simplicity—each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating the signature flavor and homey feel of this classic dish. Don’t be fooled by how effortless the list looks; every component brings something wonderful to the party.

Chicken breasts: Cube these for easiest mixing and ideal, bite-sized morsels that soak up all the rich flavors.
Water: Necessary for hydrating the rice and ensuring a perfectly tender casserole texture.
Instant white rice: Quick-cooking, fluffy rice that bakes perfectly with the other ingredients, saving you prep time and hassle.
Cream of chicken soup: Infuses the dish with savory, creamy base notes—this is a must for that “hug in a bowl” feeling.
Cream of celery soup: Adds gentle depth and a hint of earthy flavor that rounds out the sauce beautifully.
Cream of mushroom soup: Offers a subtle umami richness that really completes the trifecta of comforting, creamy flavors.
Salt and ground black pepper: Simple seasonings that enhance and balance the flavors in every single bite.
Butter: Sliced into pats and layered on top, it melts into the casserole for a glorious golden finish and extra richness.

How to Make Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Start by cutting your chicken breasts into small cubes. This ensures the chicken cooks evenly and absorbs as much savory sauce as possible. Have your soups, instant rice, water, salt, and pepper ready, and slice the butter into thin pats for later.

Step 2: Preheat and Prepare the Dish

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C) so your casserole bakes up bubbly and golden. Grease the sides and bottom of a casserole dish with a touch of butter or non-stick spray—this makes serving (and clean-up) a breeze.

Step 3: Combine the Filling

In your prepared casserole dish, stir together the cubed chicken, water, instant rice, cream of chicken soup, cream of celery soup, and cream of mushroom soup. Sprinkle in salt and pepper to taste, and give the mixture a gentle mix until everything is nicely combined and even.

Step 4: Add Buttery Goodness

Arrange the sliced butter evenly over the top of the casserole mixture. As it bakes, the butter will melt into the rice and sauce, lending heavenly richness and a perfectly golden top.

Step 5: Bake Until Perfect

Slide the dish into your preheated oven and bake for 1 hour to 75 minutes. The rice should be tender, the chicken juicy and cooked through, and the top a tempting golden brown. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s bubbling around the edges and smells incredible.

Step 6: Let It Rest

Allow Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole to cool for 10 to 15 minutes before serving. This helps the sauce thicken slightly and makes it easier to dish up those perfect, steamy scoops.

How to Serve Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole

Garnishes

For the finishing touch, try sprinkling fresh chopped parsley, sliced green onions, or a dusting of paprika over the top just before serving. These add a pop of color and a lovely burst of freshness that plays beautifully with the rich, creamy base.

Side Dishes

Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole is hearty enough to stand on its own, but it also pairs perfectly with crisp green beans, a simple side salad, or buttery dinner rolls. The contrasting textures and flavors create a well-rounded meal that’s guaranteed to satisfy any appetite.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun and unexpected twist, serve individual portions in ramekins, or use a ring mold for an elevated plated look—especially nice for special occasions. You can even stir in sautéed vegetables or top with buttery cracker crumbs for a bit of extra crunch if you’re feeling creative.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers of Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole keep beautifully in the fridge. Simply transfer cooled portions to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to four days. The flavors only get deeper and richer as they meld!

Freezing

Planning ahead? You can freeze Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole before or after baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then store in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking or reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, microwave individual servings until piping hot, or cover the entire casserole with foil and warm in a 350 degree oven until heated through. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up if it seems a little thick.

FAQs

Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken instead of raw chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Just shred or cube the cooked chicken and proceed with the recipe as written, reducing the baking time by about 15 minutes since the chicken’s already cooked.

Is it possible to substitute brown rice for the instant white rice?

You can, but the casserole will require a longer baking time and extra liquid—about 1/2 cup more water or broth. Make sure to check the rice for doneness before serving.

What are some ways to add vegetables to Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole?

Try adding a cup of frozen peas, broccoli florets, or diced carrots directly into the casserole before baking. They’ll cook perfectly along with the other ingredients and add color, flavor, and nutrition.

Can I make Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole gluten free?

Yes! Simply use gluten-free condensed soups and double-check that your rice and any seasoning mixes are certified gluten free.

Why is it important to let the casserole cool before serving?

Allowing the casserole to rest helps the sauce set up, making it easier to serve tidy portions and concentrate all those delicious flavors in every bite.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something special about Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole that makes it a treasured classic in so many families, mine included. I truly hope you give it a try—bring it to your next gathering, or even just a cozy night at home, and experience firsthand the warmth and comfort that only Mamaw’s recipes can bring. Enjoy every creamy, hearty bite!