Mamaw’s Chicken & Rice Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish that brings back memories of family gatherings and Sunday dinners. This simple yet flavorful casserole is a classic that’s loved for its creamy texture, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked rice. Whether you’re looking for a comforting family meal or something to bring to a potluck, this casserole is sure to satisfy.
Ingredients
- 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into cubes (approximately 1 1/2 to 2 pounds): The chicken is the heart of this dish, providing protein and substance. Cutting the chicken into cubes ensures even cooking and easy serving.
- 2 cups water: The water is used to cook the rice and create a tender, fluffy texture that absorbs the flavors of the soups and butter.
- 2 cups instant white rice: Instant rice is quick and easy to prepare, making this dish come together in no time. It soaks up all the delicious flavors from the other ingredients.
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can cream of chicken soup, condensed: This soup adds a rich, savory flavor that complements the chicken and enhances the creamy texture of the casserole.
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can cream of celery soup, condensed: The cream of celery soup provides a subtle, savory flavor that adds depth to the dish.
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can cream of mushroom soup, condensed: Cream of mushroom soup adds an earthy, savory note that pairs perfectly with the chicken and rice.
- Salt & fresh ground pepper to taste: Seasoning is key to bringing out all the flavors in this dish. Adjust the salt and pepper to your preference.
- 1/2 cup butter, sliced into pats: The butter melts into the casserole, adding richness and helping to create a golden, crispy top.
Instructions
1. Preheat Your Oven:
- Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that the casserole bakes evenly and thoroughly.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
- Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized cubes. Season the chicken with a little salt and pepper to enhance the flavor. You can also add any additional seasonings you like at this stage, such as garlic powder or paprika.
3. Assemble the Casserole:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the water, instant rice, cream of chicken soup, cream of celery soup, and cream of mushroom soup. Mix until well combined.
- Add the cubed chicken to the mixture and stir until the chicken is evenly coated with the soup and rice mixture.
4. Transfer to a Baking Dish:
- Pour the chicken and rice mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly. This ensures that all the ingredients cook uniformly.
5. Add the Butter:
- Place the pats of butter evenly across the top of the casserole. As the casserole bakes, the butter will melt, adding richness and helping to create a golden, slightly crispy top.
6. Bake the Casserole:
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 1 hour, or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.
- For a slightly crispier top, remove the foil during the last 10-15 minutes of baking.
7. Serve:
- Once the casserole is done, remove it from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the casserole to set slightly, making it easier to serve.
8. Garnish and Enjoy:
- Serve the casserole hot, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or chives if desired. This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Tips for Success
- Homemade Soup Substitutes: If you prefer not to use canned soups, you can easily make homemade versions of cream of chicken, cream of celery, and cream of mushroom soups. This will give you more control over the ingredients and flavor.
- Adding Vegetables: For a more complete meal, you can add vegetables to the casserole. Peas, carrots, or broccoli are great options that cook well in the oven alongside the chicken and rice.
- Cheese Topping: If you love cheese, try sprinkling some shredded cheddar or mozzarella over the top of the casserole during the last 10 minutes of baking. It adds a deliciously gooey and cheesy layer.
- Rice Variations: While this recipe calls for instant white rice, you can experiment with other types of rice, such as brown rice or wild rice. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary if you use a different type of rice.
- Storing and Reheating: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply cover the casserole with foil and warm it in a 350°F oven until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions.
Mamaw’s Chicken & Rice Casserole is a classic comfort food dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. With its creamy texture, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked rice, it’s no wonder this recipe has been passed down through generations. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a family gathering, this casserole is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Plus, with the option to customize with additional vegetables or a cheesy topping, you can make it your own. Enjoy this timeless dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to any meal.
