Mamaw’s Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival Mamaw’s Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole. Imagine a plate filled with tender chicken enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce, accompanied by fluffy rice, and topped with an array of mouthwatering flavors. It’s a dish that encapsulates warmth and nostalgia, reminiscent of family gatherings and cozy winter evenings spent around the dinner table.

Did you know that casseroles date back to the 18th century? In those days, they were an essential way to bring families together with minimal fuss in the kitchen. This classic recipe is an easy favorite, just like my beloved cheesy vegetable bake that readers rave about. With Mamaw’s chicken and rice casserole, you’ll quickly realize that simplicity in cooking can yield extraordinary results. Whether you’re channeling your inner chef for a special occasion or just having another weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to impress!

What is Mamaw’s Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole?

So, what’s the scoop on Mamaw’s Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole? The name certainly sparks curiosity! Is Mamaw a legendary chef or just a regular family matriarch who knows how to bring hearts together? Who knows? But one thing’s for sure—the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach! This casserole could probably woo even the pickiest of eaters. With its hearty textures and flavors, it’s a dish that transcends generations and will make your family dig in seconds. I can just imagine Mamaw in the kitchen, apron-clad, creating this comforting masterpiece! Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to add it to your weekly rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Mamaw’s Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole

A Hearty Main Dish

This casserole is more than just a meal; it’s a delightful experience. Each bite combines tender chicken, savory rice, and a creamy sauce that dances on your taste buds. You’ll find that it’s reminiscent of a creamy risotto but easier to prepare! The rich flavors meld together, and the aroma wafts through your home, beckoning everyone to the dining table.

Cost-Saving Benefits

Cooking at home can have significant savings, and this dish is a perfect example. With simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store, you’ll stretch your dollar while feeding your loved ones a delicious homemade dinner. Compared to dining out or ordering takeout, your wallet will thank you!

The Flavorful Toppings

Topping the casserole with crunchy breadcrumbs or a sprinkle of herbs elevates this dish to new heights. Who doesn’t love that crispy texture paired with creamy goodness? It’s like giving a gentle hug to your taste buds. Each topping you choose adds an element of surprise and excitement!

Ready to delve into this culinary delight? Let’s get cooking!

How to Make Mamaw’s Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole

Quick Overview
Mamaw’s Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole is one of those fuss-free dishes that make life easier yet incredibly satisfying. With a creamy texture and robust flavor, you’ll spend about 15 minutes prepping and 45 minutes baking. The result? A golden, bubbling casserole that brings hearty warmth on chilly nights.

Key Ingredients for Mamaw’s Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole

Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 cups of cooked, shredded chicken (you can use rotisserie chicken for convenience)
• 1 cup of uncooked white rice
• 3 cups of low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup of cream of chicken soup (ensure it’s halal-certified)
• 1 cup of frozen mixed vegetables (like peas and carrots)
• 1 cup of shredded cheese (like cheddar or mozzarella for a creamy topping)
• 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon of onion powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• ½ cup of breadcrumbs (optional for topping)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure your casserole is evenly cooked and bubbly when done!
2. Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cooked rice, chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, frozen mixed vegetables, garlic powder, onion powder, and season with salt and pepper. Stir until all ingredients are well blended.
3. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it evenly, ensuring even cooking.
4. Add the Toppings: If using breadcrumbs, sprinkle them over the top. Then, sprinkle shredded cheese to create a delightful cheesy crust.
5. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 45 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is golden brown.
6. Cool and Serve: Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps set the flavors and makes it easier to scoop out those delicious portions!

Top Tips for Perfecting Mamaw’s Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole

• Substitutions: For a unique twist, try adding diced bell peppers or swapping the creamy soup with a homemade white sauce. For a vegetarian version, simply replace chicken with more vegetables or chickpeas that will soak up the flavors beautifully.
• Timing: To ensure your rice is perfectly cooked, consider precooking it a bit or using long-grain rice that can handle longer cooking times.
• Avoid Common Mistakes: Don’t skip the seasoning! Seasoning your broth and other ingredients will ensure a flavorful dish. If you find the casserole too thick, you may want to add a bit more chicken broth for a creamy consistency.

Storing and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, you’re in luck! Store any unused portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can also freeze the casserole for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 25 minutes.

Enjoy the comforting flavors of Mamaw’s Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole at your next family gathering! You might just find that it’s a dish destined to become part of your legacy too!

Mamaw's Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole

A comforting casserole with tender chicken, creamy sauce, and fluffy rice, perfect for family gatherings and cozy dinners.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 45 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Course Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 6 servings

Calories 400 kcal

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
• 1 cup uncooked white rice
• 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup cream of chicken soup Ensure it's halal-certified.
• 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables Like peas and carrots.
• 1 cup shredded cheese Like cheddar or mozzarella for a creamy topping.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper To taste.
• ½ cup breadcrumbs Optional for topping.

Instructions

 

Preparation

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure your casserole is evenly cooked.
• In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cooked rice, chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, frozen mixed vegetables, garlic powder, onion powder, and season with salt and pepper. Stir until well blended.
• Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Spread it evenly for even cooking.
• If using breadcrumbs, sprinkle them over the top, then add shredded cheese for a delightful cheesy crust.

Cooking

• Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 45 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is golden brown.
• Let it cool for a few minutes before serving to set the flavors.

Notes

For substitutions, try adding diced bell peppers or replacing the creamy soup with a homemade white sauce. For a vegetarian version, swap chicken with more vegetables or chickpeas. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.

Keyword Casserole, Chicken and rice, Comfort Food, Easy Dinner, Family Recipe