Mamaw’s Chicken & Rice Casserole

The rich aroma of tender chicken mingling with creamy rice will fill your kitchen as you prepare Mamaw’s Chicken & Rice Casserole. This heartwarming dish combines simple ingredients that transform into something truly magical—a comforting casserole that tastes like it came straight from grandma’s kitchen. The velvety texture of perfectly cooked rice paired with juicy chicken pieces creates a meal that satisfies both body and soul. You’ll learn how to create this beloved family-style casserole that generations have enjoyed, with foolproof techniques that ensure it comes out perfect every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There’s something irresistibly comforting about Mamaw’s Chicken & Rice Casserole that keeps families coming back to this classic recipe. The beauty lies in its perfect balance of textures—tender, moist chicken nestled against fluffy rice, all enveloped in a creamy sauce that brings everything together. Unlike complicated dishes that require constant attention, this casserole practically cooks itself, making it ideal for busy weeknights when you need something wholesome without the fuss.

The dish offers a wonderful contrast between the slightly crispy edges that form during baking and the creamy interior that melts in your mouth. Each bite delivers a perfect harmony of savory chicken, hearty rice, and subtle seasonings that create a dish greater than the sum of its parts. Best of all, it’s endlessly adaptable to what you have on hand, making it a reliable go-to meal when you need to feed a hungry family with minimal effort.

Ingredients

For this classic Mamaw’s Chicken & Rice Casserole, you’ll need:

• 2 cups white long-grain rice, uncooked (jasmine or basmati work beautifully)
• 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 2 cans (10.5 oz each) cream of chicken soup (provides the signature creamy base)
• 2½ cups chicken broth (low-sodium recommended)
• 1 medium onion, finely diced (about 1 cup)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup butter, melted (salted or unsalted works)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust based on broth sodium content)
• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots (optional for color and nutrition)

Pro Tips

Achieving the perfect Mamaw’s Chicken & Rice Casserole relies on a few crucial techniques that make all the difference. First, never skip the step of properly greasing your baking dish—this prevents the rice from sticking and makes cleanup infinitely easier. A light coating of butter or cooking spray along the sides and bottom ensures your casserole will release beautifully when served.

Second, the rice-to-liquid ratio is absolutely critical. For perfectly cooked rice that’s neither mushy nor crunchy, maintain the 1:2 ratio of rice to liquid. Remember that the condensed soup counts as part of your liquid, so adjust your broth accordingly. If you’re using a different rice variety than what’s called for, you may need to slightly adjust this ratio.

Finally, resist the urge to peek during baking! Each time you open the oven, you release heat and steam that’s essential for properly cooking the rice. Keep the foil tightly sealed until the recommended cooking time has elapsed. This ensures even cooking and helps develop that magical, creamy texture that makes Mamaw’s Chicken & Rice Casserole so irresistible.

Instructions

Step 1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and generously grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. This preparation step ensures your Mamaw’s Chicken & Rice Casserole won’t stick to the dish and helps develop those deliciously crispy edges everyone fights over.

Step 2
In a large mixing bowl, combine the uncooked rice, diced chicken pieces, cream of chicken soup, and chicken broth. Stir gently until everything is evenly incorporated, making sure there are no dry pockets of rice hiding at the bottom of the bowl.

Step 3
Add the diced onion, minced garlic, melted butter, dried thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper to the mixture. If you’re including the optional peas and carrots, fold them in now. The vegetables will cook perfectly during baking, maintaining their color and texture while complementing the chicken and rice.

Step 4
Pour the entire mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Take a moment to ensure the chicken pieces are distributed throughout so every serving has plenty of protein. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil, creating a good seal around the edges.

Step 5
Bake covered for 45 minutes, then carefully remove the foil (watch for hot steam!) and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes. This uncovered baking time allows the top to develop a light golden color while the flavors concentrate. Your casserole is done when the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.

Step 6
Once removed from the oven, let your Mamaw’s Chicken & Rice Casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the casserole to set slightly and makes it easier to portion. The dish will be extremely hot inside, so this cooling time is practical as well as beneficial for the final texture.

Variations

Cheesy Chicken & Rice Casserole
Transform Mamaw’s Chicken & Rice Casserole into a cheese lover’s dream by adding 1½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese to the mixture before baking. For extra indulgence, sprinkle another ½ cup on top during the last 15 minutes of baking for a golden, bubbly cheese crust that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Broccoli Chicken & Rice Casserole
Create a complete one-dish meal by adding 2 cups of lightly steamed broccoli florets to the original recipe. The broccoli adds beautiful color, nutritional value, and a pleasant textural contrast to the creamy rice base. This variation is particularly popular with families trying to incorporate more vegetables into their meals.

Mushroom Herb Chicken & Rice Casserole
For a more sophisticated flavor profile, substitute one can of cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom, and add 8 ounces of sliced mushrooms sautéed with a tablespoon of fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme. This earthy variation elevates the classic Mamaw’s Chicken & Rice Casserole into a dish worthy of special occasions.

Storage and Serving

Mamaw’s Chicken & Rice Casserole stores beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep. Once completely cooled, cover the casserole with plastic wrap or transfer portions to airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

For the best reheating results, sprinkle a tablespoon of water or chicken broth over each portion before covering with a damp paper towel and microwaving until heated through. This prevents the rice from drying out and restores the creamy texture.

Serve this comforting casserole alongside a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness. For a complete Sunday dinner presentation, pair with buttered green beans and warm dinner rolls for sopping up the delicious sauce. For casual gatherings, a sprinkle of fresh herbs and a dollop of sour cream make for appealing garnishes that elevate the homestyle appeal of this beloved dish.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but brown rice requires more liquid and longer cooking time. Increase the chicken broth by ½ cup and expect to add 15-20 minutes to the covered baking time. Check that the rice is fully tender before removing the foil.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken to save time?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken works wonderfully in Mamaw’s Chicken & Rice Casserole. Simply shred or dice about 3 cups of cooked chicken and reduce the covered baking time by 10 minutes since you’re only cooking the rice.

Why is my rice still crunchy after baking?
This typically happens when there’s insufficient liquid or heat loss during baking. Ensure your foil is sealed tightly, and if needed, add an extra ¼ cup of hot chicken broth, recover, and bake for 10-15 more minutes.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
You can assemble it up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate unbaked. Add an extra ¼ cup of liquid before baking, and expect to add 10-15 minutes to the cooking time if baking directly from the refrigerator.

Is there a dairy-free option for this recipe?
Yes, substitute the butter with olive oil or dairy-free butter. Choose cream of chicken soup labeled as dairy-free, or make your own with chicken broth thickened with flour and dairy-free milk alternative.

Conclusion

This Mamaw’s Chicken & Rice Casserole is comfort food at its finest — a velvety, satisfying blend of tender chicken and perfectly cooked rice that wraps you in warmth with every bite. It’s the kind of dish that brings families together around the table, creating memories alongside nourishment. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight, preparing a meal for someone in need, or simply craving the nostalgic flavors of home, this casserole delivers with minimal effort and maximum heart. There’s a reason these treasured family recipes endure through generations—they simply work, satisfying both body and soul in equal measure.

Print