Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole is the kind of dish that wraps you in a warm, cozy hug with every bite. Imagine tender chicken nestled in creamy rice, enveloped in a symphony of savory flavors that dance on your palate. The aroma wafts through the air, making your stomach rumble like a thunderstorm, as you anticipate the comforting goodness that awaits.
This dish isn’t just food; it’s a cherished memory from my childhood kitchen—a place where laughter echoed alongside the clinking of pots and pans. Picture Sunday dinners filled with family stories and smiles, all brought together by this one pot wonder. It’s perfect for chilly nights or those lazy Sundays when you want to treat yourself without slaving away in the kitchen.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole is incredibly easy to prepare, making it ideal for weeknight meals.
- Its rich and hearty flavors will leave your taste buds singing with joy.
- The vibrant colors make it visually appealing, turning any dinner table into a feast.
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to accommodate whatever leftovers you have lying around!
Ingredients for Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts work best; adjust based on how many hungry mouths you’re feeding.
Long-Grain White Rice: This fluffy rice absorbs all the flavors beautifully; avoid instant rice for best results.
Chicken Broth: Opt for low-sodium broth to control saltiness while enhancing flavor.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: Adds creaminess and depth—feel free to use a homemade version if you’re feeling fancy!
Frozen Mixed Vegetables: A colorful mix of peas, carrots, and corn adds nutrition and visual appeal.
Onion Powder: A sprinkle brings warmth and depth without the hassle of chopping onions.
Garlic Powder: Because what’s a casserole without garlic? It adds that irresistible aroma!
Salt and Pepper: Season to taste, but remember—taste as you go!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a baking dish (9×13 inches works perfectly) and spray it with nonstick cooking spray so nothing gets stuck in there—nobody wants a casserole tragedy!
Step 2: Prepare the Rice
In a medium bowl, combine long-grain white rice with chicken broth according to package instructions. This will ensure that every grain is infused with flavor as it cooks.
Step 3: Mix Ingredients
In another large bowl, mix together cream of mushroom soup, frozen mixed vegetables, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything looks like one big happy family.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Add cooked rice to the soup mixture. Then fold in those lovely chicken breasts whole or cubed—whatever your heart desires! Mix gently so that everything combines nicely without breaking anything apart.
Step 5: Bake
Transfer the entire mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Cover with aluminum foil (shiny side down), and bake for about 45 minutes. Remove foil during the last ten minutes to let things bubble up beautifully!
Step 6: Serve
Once it’s golden brown on top and bubbling with joy beneath the surface, take it out! Let it cool slightly before serving—patience is key here! Transfer to plates or bowls for maximum enjoyment. Drizzle some extra sauce on top if desired.
And there you have it—Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole ready to warm both hearts and bellies alike! Enjoy this wholesome meal on chilly nights or share it at family gatherings; either way, it’s bound to create lasting memories just like those I cherish from my childhood kitchen experience!
You Must Know
- This dish is more than a casserole; it’s a warm hug on a plate.
- With its creamy texture and savory flavors, Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole will become your go-to comfort food.
- Perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in, it’s always a crowd-pleaser.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by searing the chicken for that golden brown crust, then cook the rice while the chicken cools. Combine everything in a baking dish, pour over the creamy sauce, and let the oven do its magic. Timing is key for perfect results.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole with different vegetables like peas or broccoli. You can also swap out the chicken for turkey or add spices like paprika for an extra kick. Make it uniquely yours!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply pop it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, ensuring every bite remains deliciously creamy.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly cooked rice, rinse it before cooking to remove excess starch.
- This prevents clumping and keeps each grain separate.
- Always taste your seasoning; adjusting salt can elevate flavors significantly.
- Lastly, let the casserole sit for a few minutes after baking—it makes serving easier!
Sharing this recipe takes me back to family dinners where laughter filled the air and everyone fought over the last scoop of casserole. It was always a hit!
FAQs:
What ingredients do I need for Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole?
To prepare Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole, you will need boneless chicken breasts, long-grain white rice, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, onion, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and shredded cheese. Optional ingredients include vegetables like peas or carrots for added nutrition and flavor. This simple ingredient list makes the casserole both easy to prepare and delicious.
How long does it take to cook Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole?
Cooking Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole takes about 1 hour in the oven. First, you will need to prep the dish by mixing ingredients together and placing them in a baking dish. Then bake at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 45 minutes to an hour until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender. This makes it a convenient meal for busy weeknights.
Can I make Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole ahead of time. Simply assemble all the ingredients in your baking dish but don’t bake it immediately. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to enjoy this comforting dish, just pop it in the oven!
Is Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole freezer-friendly?
Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole is indeed freezer-friendly! You can freeze it either before baking or after it’s cooked. If freezing before cooking, ensure it’s well-covered to prevent freezer burn. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before baking. If freezing leftovers, place them in an airtight container, and reheat thoroughly when ready to serve.
Conclusion for Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole:
Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole is a delightful dish that combines comforting flavors with ease of preparation. With just a few simple ingredients like chicken, rice, cream of chicken soup, and seasoning, you can create a meal that pleases everyone at the table. Whether you’re making it fresh or prepping ahead for later use, this recipe delivers warmth and satisfaction every time you serve it. Enjoy this timeless classic as a perfect family dinner option!
Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole
Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole is a heartwarming dish that combines tender chicken, creamy rice, and mixed vegetables into a comforting one-pot meal. Perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings, this easy-to-make casserole delivers rich flavors and nostalgic memories with every bite. Enjoy the simplicity of this delightful recipe that transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary dining experience.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a medium bowl, combine the rice with chicken broth according to package instructions.
- In a large bowl, mix together the cream of mushroom soup, frozen mixed vegetables, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Fold the cooked rice into the soup mixture with whole or cubed chicken breasts.
- Transfer everything to the prepared baking dish, cover with aluminum foil, and bake for about 45 minutes. Remove foil in the last ten minutes for a golden top.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: Customize this casserole by adding your favorite vegetables such as broccoli or swapping chicken for turkey. For extra flavor, consider adding spices like paprika or grated cheese before baking.
