There’s something truly special about family recipes passed down through generations. Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole is one such dish—a comforting and hearty meal that brings warmth to the table and memories flooding back. With tender chicken, fluffy rice, and creamy sauces, this casserole is the epitome of home-cooked goodness. Let’s dive into the recipe and create a dish that’s sure to become a new family favorite!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 pounds cubed boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups instant white rice
- 2 cups water
- 1 can each of condensed cream of chicken soup, cream of celery, and mushroom (10.75 ounces each)
- 1/2 cup sliced butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Ingredients: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish and set aside. Cube the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and set aside.
- Cook Rice: In a large bowl, combine the instant white rice and water. Let it sit for a few minutes to allow the rice to absorb the water partially.
- Combine Ingredients: In a separate mixing bowl, combine the condensed cream of chicken, cream of celery, and cream of mushroom soups. Mix well until smooth and creamy.
- Assemble Casserole: Spread the partially cooked rice evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Layer the cubed chicken on top of the rice.
- Pour Sauce Mixture Over Chicken: Pour the creamy soup mixture evenly over the chicken and rice in the baking dish.
- Dot with Butter: Scatter the sliced butter over the top of the casserole. This will add richness and flavor as it melts during baking.
- Season and Bake: Season the casserole with salt and pepper to taste. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Spoon generous portions onto plates and savor the comforting flavors of Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole.
Cook’s Notes:
- Customize Your Casserole: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the casserole for added nutrition and flavor. Peas, carrots, and broccoli are popular choices.
- Use Any Rice: If you don’t have instant white rice on hand, you can use long-grain white rice or even brown rice. Just adjust the cooking time and liquid accordingly.
- Make Ahead: This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated until ready to bake. Simply cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
Variations:
- Cheesy Twist: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole during the last few minutes of baking for an extra cheesy finish.
- Herbaceous Flavor: Add chopped fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or rosemary to the casserole for a burst of freshness and flavor.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):
- Can I use bone-in chicken for this casserole? While boneless, skinless chicken breasts are recommended for ease of preparation, you can certainly use bone-in chicken if preferred. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the chicken cooks through completely.
- Can I use low-sodium soups? Yes, if you prefer to reduce the sodium content of the casserole, you can use low-sodium or reduced-fat condensed soups. The flavor may be slightly different, but it will still be delicious.
- What can I serve with Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole? This casserole pairs well with a variety of side dishes such as steamed vegetables, salad, garlic bread, or a simple green salad.
- Can I freeze leftovers? Yes, this casserole freezes well. Once cooled, transfer leftovers to an airtight container or freezer-safe dish and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
In conclusion, Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole is a timeless classic that embodies the comfort and warmth of home-cooked meals. With its simple yet flavorful ingredients and easy preparation, it’s no wonder this dish has been cherished by families for generations. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this casserole is sure
