Introduction
There’s something magical about Mamaw’s recipes. They’re simple, hearty, and made with love—just the way comfort food should be. Mamaw’s Chicken & Rice Casserole is no exception. This dish has it all: tender chicken, creamy sauce, fluffy rice, and that warm, cozy flavor that makes you feel like you’re sitting at the family table again.
It’s easy to put together, doesn’t require fancy ingredients, and is perfect for weeknights, potlucks, or when you just want a nostalgic, filling meal.
Ingredients (Shopping List)
Here’s everything you’ll need for Mamaw’s Chicken & Rice Casserole:
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken works great) – Buy Rotisserie-Style Chicken Pack
- 2 cups long-grain white rice, cooked – Best Long-Grain White Rice
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup – Campbell’s Cream of Chicken Soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup – Campbell’s Cream of Mushroom Soup
- 1 cup sour cream – Daisy Sour Cream
- 1 cup chicken broth – Swanson Chicken Broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – Tillamook Sharp Cheddar
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder – McCormick Garlic Powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder – McCormick Onion Powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper – Ground Black Pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt – Sea Salt
- 1 cup breadcrumbs or crushed Ritz crackers for topping – Ritz Crackers
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted – Land O Lakes Butter
Essential Kitchen Tools & Appliances
Before you start, gather these tools to stay organized:
- 9×13 inch Baking Dish
- Mixing Bowls
- Measuring Cups & Spoons
- Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula
- Cheese Grater (if not buying pre-shredded)
- Cutting Board & Knife
- Aluminum Foil
Preparation Steps
- Cook the Rice: Make 2 cups of rice according to package instructions. Fluff it with a fork and set aside.
- Prep the Chicken: If using rotisserie chicken, shred it. Otherwise, cook chicken breasts, then dice or shred.
- Mix the Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth.
- Combine: Add the cooked rice and shredded chicken into the mixture. Stir well so everything is coated.
- Preheat Oven: Set oven to 350°F (175°C).
Cooking/Baking Instructions
- Lightly grease your 9×13 baking dish.
- Pour the chicken and rice mixture into the dish and spread evenly.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs (or crushed Ritz crackers) with melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture over the cheese layer for a crispy topping.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for another 15–20 minutes, until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling.
👉 Pro Tip: For extra flavor, add a dash of paprika or cayenne pepper before baking.
Serving Suggestions
- Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or green onions on top for a pop of color.
- Serve with a light side salad or roasted veggies for balance.
- Garlic bread or dinner rolls pair beautifully with this hearty casserole.
Additional Tips
- Make it creamy: Add extra sour cream or a splash of heavy cream.
- Healthier option: Use brown rice, low-fat sour cream, and low-sodium soups.
- Flavor boosters: Stir in sautéed mushrooms, peas, or broccoli before baking.
- Spicy twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
Nutrition Details (per serving – based on 8 servings)
- Calories: ~420
- Protein: 26g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fat: 21g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: ~790mg
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready.
Q2: How do I store leftovers?
Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for 3–4 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.
Q3: Can I substitute the soups?
Absolutely—try cream of celery or cream of onion for a different flavor twist.
Q4: How do I make it healthier?
Use brown rice, Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, and reduced-fat cheese.
Wrap-Up
Mamaw’s Chicken & Rice Casserole is more than just a recipe—it’s a family tradition that warms the heart and fills the belly. It’s proof that sometimes the simplest dishes are the best. Whether you’re cooking for your family, bringing a dish to a potluck, or meal-prepping for the week, this casserole is sure to become a favorite.
💡 Fun Fact: Did you know casseroles became especially popular in the U.S. during the 1950s? They were budget-friendly, easy to prepare, and perfect for feeding big families—just like this timeless dish from Mamaw’s kitchen.
