Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—a creamy, hearty dish that combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a rich, savory sauce. Baked to perfection with a crispy, golden top, this casserole is the kind of meal that brings back memories of home-cooked dinners and family gatherings. It’s simple, filling, and packed with flavors that make it a true classic.
I first made Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole when I was craving something warm and nostalgic, and it instantly became a go-to meal. The creamy sauce, made with condensed soup and broth, coats every bite, while the chicken stays juicy and tender. What I love most about this recipe is how easy it is to throw together—it’s the perfect no-fuss dish for busy nights or when you need a little extra comfort.
What’s great about Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole is how customizable it is. You can mix in vegetables like peas or broccoli for extra nutrition, swap out the condensed soup for a homemade version, or add a layer of cheese on top for an even richer dish. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner, a potluck, or just to relive those childhood flavors, this casserole is sure to be a hit!
Perfect for:
- Family dinners
- Potluck gatherings
- Meal prep
- Comfort food cravings
- Picky eaters
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Here are 10 reasons why Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole will become a staple in your kitchen:
- Classic Comfort: Creamy rice and tender chicken make this dish a warm, nostalgic favorite.
- One-Pan Wonder: Everything bakes in one dish for easy prep and cleanup.
- Minimal Ingredients: Requires only a few pantry staples.
- Hands-Off Cooking: Once it’s in the oven, there’s no need to stir or watch over it.
- Customizable: Add vegetables or seasonings to suit your taste.
- Kid-Friendly: A mild, creamy dish that’s a hit with all ages.
- Great for Leftovers: Tastes even better the next day.
- Freezer-Friendly: Can be made ahead and frozen for later.
- Affordable: Uses budget-friendly ingredients without sacrificing flavor.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Always a hit at potlucks and family gatherings.
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories per serving: Approximately 400-450 calories
- Key Nutrients: Protein: 30g, Carbs: 50g, Fat: 12g
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 ¾ cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Optional Add-ins:
- 1 cup frozen peas or mixed vegetables
- ½ cup sautéed mushrooms
- ½ teaspoon paprika for extra seasoning
- ½ cup crushed buttery crackers or French fried onions for topping
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Casserole:
- Preheat Oven: Set oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine cooked chicken, uncooked rice, cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, and chicken broth. Stir well.
- Season: Add salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix until well combined.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
Bake the Casserole:
- Cover and Bake: Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 50 minutes.
- Check Rice: Remove foil and check if rice is tender. If not, bake for an additional 10-15 minutes.
- Add Cheese (Optional): If using, sprinkle shredded cheese on top and bake uncovered for 5 more minutes until melted.
Serve:
- Rest and Garnish: Let the casserole sit for 5 minutes before serving. Top with crushed crackers or fried onions for extra crunch if desired.
- Enjoy: Scoop out a generous portion and serve warm.
How to Serve
Here are 10 serving suggestions for Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole:
- With a Side Salad: Pair with a crisp green salad for a balanced meal.
- With Roasted Vegetables: Serve alongside roasted carrots or Brussels sprouts.
- With Garlic Bread: A buttery slice of garlic bread makes a great accompaniment.
- With Mashed Potatoes: Double the comfort with an extra serving of mashed potatoes.
- As a Make-Ahead Meal: Prepare in advance and refrigerate before baking.
- As Leftovers: Enjoy reheated the next day—it tastes even better!
- With Hot Sauce: Drizzle with your favorite hot sauce for added spice.
- With a Creamy Dressing: A side of ranch or Caesar dressing complements the flavors.
- With Pickles or Relish: A tangy side helps balance the richness.
- As a Potluck Dish: Bring to gatherings for a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Additional Tips
- Use Rotisserie Chicken – For extra flavor and convenience, shred a store-bought rotisserie chicken instead of cooking raw chicken.
- Boost the Seasoning – Add a dash of garlic powder, onion powder, or paprika to enhance the casserole’s depth of flavor.
- Try Different Cheeses – Swap or mix in different cheeses like Monterey Jack, gouda, or pepper jack for a unique twist.
- Make It Creamier – Stir in a dollop of sour cream or an extra can of cream of mushroom soup for a richer texture.
- Add a Crunchy Topping – Sprinkle crushed Ritz crackers, fried onions, or panko breadcrumbs on top before baking for a crispy finish.
- Use Brown Rice – For a healthier option, substitute white rice with brown rice, but increase the cooking time accordingly.
- Sneak in Veggies – Mix in frozen peas, carrots, or chopped spinach for added nutrition and color.
- Spice It Up – Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce for a little kick.
- Make It Ahead – Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, store it in the fridge, and bake it when ready.
- Double for Leftovers – This dish freezes well, so consider making a double batch and storing extra portions for easy future meals.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Chicken Casserole: Add diced jalapeños and pepper jack cheese.
- Broccoli Chicken Casserole: Stir in 1 cup of steamed broccoli.
- Cheesy Chicken and Rice: Double the cheese for an ultra-creamy dish.
- Mushroom Lover’s Version: Use extra mushrooms and swap cream of chicken soup for cream of mushroom.
- Healthier Option: Use brown rice and reduced-fat soups.
- Mexican-Inspired Casserole: Add taco seasoning and top with salsa.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free soups and skip the cheese.
- Gluten-Free Casserole: Choose gluten-free soups and check seasonings for gluten content.
- Herb-Infused: Stir in fresh thyme or rosemary for extra depth of flavor.
- Crunchy Topping: Top with panko breadcrumbs for a crispy crust.
Special Equipment
- 9×13-inch Baking Dish: The perfect size for even baking.
- Mixing Bowl: For combining all ingredients.
- Aluminum Foil: Helps retain moisture while baking.
- Wooden Spoon: For easy mixing.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient amounts.
- Cheese Grater: If adding freshly shredded cheese.
FAQ Section
- Can I use pre-cooked chicken instead of raw?
Yes! You can use rotisserie chicken or any cooked, shredded chicken. - What type of rice works best for this recipe?
Long-grain white rice is the best option, but you can also use jasmine or basmati. - Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold. - How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through. - Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes! Freeze it unbaked for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking, or bake straight from frozen, adding extra time as needed. - What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup?
You can use cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup. For a homemade version, make a roux with butter, flour, and chicken broth mixed with heavy cream. - Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Definitely! Peas, carrots, green beans, or broccoli make great additions. Add them in before baking for extra flavor and nutrition. - What cheese works best for topping?
Cheddar cheese is a classic choice, but you can also use Monterey Jack, Colby, or even a blend of cheeses for extra richness. - How do I make this dish creamier?
Add an extra can of cream soup, a splash of milk, or a dollop of sour cream for a richer, creamier texture. - Can I make this casserole in a slow cooker?
Yes! Cook on low for about 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, ensuring the rice is fully cooked before serving.
Conclusion
Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender chicken, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked rice in one easy, satisfying dish. This classic family recipe is made with simple ingredients like shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, and a touch of seasoning, all baked together until golden and bubbly. The result is a warm, hearty meal that’s both nostalgic and incredibly delicious.
This casserole is perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or whenever you need a comforting home-cooked meal. You can customize it by adding veggies like peas, carrots, or broccoli, or topping it with shredded cheese for extra richness. Serve it on its own or with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
I can’t wait to see how your Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole turns out! Be sure to share your photos on Instagram and tag me—I’d love to see your delicious creations! And don’t forget to leave a comment letting me know how you made this dish your own!
