Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole
Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole
This beloved casserole is more than just a meal—it’s a treasured slice of family heritage, passed down through generations. A staple of Southern comfort cooking, this dish brings together everyday ingredients to create something truly special. Hearty, satisfying, and full of nostalgia, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or Sunday gatherings. Let’s take a look at how to make this classic recipe from start to finish.
Ingredients for Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole
To make this comforting classic, gather the following:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Boneless, skinless chicken breasts | 1.5 pounds, cubed |
| Instant white rice | 2 cups |
| Water | 2 cups |
| Condensed cream of chicken soup | 1 (10.75 oz) can |
| Condensed cream of celery soup | 1 (10.75 oz) can |
| Condensed cream of mushroom soup | 1 (10.75 oz) can |
| Butter, sliced | 1/2 cup |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a large casserole dish to prevent the ingredients from sticking.
2. Mix the Ingredients
In your prepared casserole dish, combine the cubed chicken, instant rice, cream of chicken soup, cream of celery soup, cream of mushroom soup, and water. Stir everything together until it’s evenly mixed. Add salt and pepper according to your preference.
3. Top with Butter
Cut the butter into slices and spread them evenly across the top of the casserole mixture. This will add richness and help create a beautifully golden top layer.
4. Bake Until Done
Place the casserole in the oven and bake for about 1 hour. You’ll know it’s ready when the rice is fully cooked, the chicken is tender, and the surface is bubbly and golden brown.
Tip: Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes after baking to help it set and make serving easier.
This heartwarming dish continues to bring families together around the dinner table—just like Mamaw always intended.
