Mamaw Chicken and Rice Casserole: Creamy, Comforting Classic

Mamaw chicken and rice casserole is the ultimate comfort food, blending creamy textures with savory, homey flavors.

This dish is a crowd-pleaser, delivering tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a luscious, savory sauce—all baked to perfection in a single dish. It’s hearty enough for family dinners, yet simple enough for busy weeknights.

What makes this just so special? It’s all about the balance of flavors: the creamy blend of three soups, perfectly cooked chicken, and the buttery finish on top.

Plus, you’ll love how easy it is from start to finish—just 10 minutes of prep, and the oven does the rest. This is everything you want in a one-pan meal: easy, comforting, and designed to satisfy every appetite.

My Story Behind This Mamaw Chicken and Rice Casserole

I first encountered this recipe when I stumbled upon a handwritten card in an old recipe box—one of those gems marked “Mamaw’s Best.” The first time I baked it, I couldn’t believe how the simple combination of creamy soups, rice, and chicken could create something so delicious.

Warm, buttery scents filled the kitchen as the casserole baked, and it instantly became a family favorite.

Over the years, I’ve perfected this easy chicken and rice casserole to highlight the best parts. From tweaking the ingredient ratios to experimenting with add-ins like broccoli or cheese, this recipe has evolved into my ideal homemade chicken and rice bake.

Every time I make it, I’m reminded of its comforting simplicity that just works every time.

Ingredients for Mamaw Chicken and Rice Casserole

• 3 chicken breasts, cut into cubes
• 2 cups water
• 2 cups instant white rice
• 1 (10.5 ounce) can cream of chicken soup
• 1 (10.5 ounce) can cream of celery soup
• 1 (10.5 ounce) can cream of mushroom soup
• Salt and ground black pepper (to taste)
• ½ cup butter, sliced into pats

How to Make Mamaw Chicken and Rice Casserole

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease the sides and bottom of a casserole dish with butter or cooking spray.
2. In the dish, mix the chicken, water, rice, cream of chicken soup, cream of celery soup, and cream of mushroom soup until well combined. Sprinkle with salt and black pepper to taste.
3. Evenly distribute the pats of butter across the top of the chicken mixture. This will help create a rich, golden top layer as it bakes.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked, the rice is tender, and the top is golden brown. For a slight crust, let it bake closer to the 75-minute mark.
5. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 10-15 minutes before serving. This rest time helps the layers set and enhances the overall flavor.

My Chef Tips for the Best Mamaw Chicken and Rice Casserole

• Use fresh ingredients: For the best flavor, opt for fresh chicken and high-quality soups. The better your ingredients, the better the results.
• Customize to your liking: Add cooked broccoli or frozen mixed vegetables for extra nutrition, or sprinkle cheese on top for a melty, golden finish.
• Keep it creamy: If you want an even creamier texture, substitute one cup of water with one cup of whole milk or chicken broth.
• Storage: Leftovers keep well for up to 3 days in the fridge. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 20 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out.
• Freezing: Assemble the dish and freeze before baking. When you’re ready to cook, bake it directly from frozen, adding 20-30 minutes to the cook time.

Mamaw Chicken and Rice Casserole FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time and liquid. Brown rice takes longer to cook and requires more water. Try adding ½ cup additional water and baking for 90 minutes instead.

Can I make this a healthy chicken and rice meal?

Absolutely! Use reduced-fat cream soups and swap butter for olive oil if you’re looking to cut calories. Add extra vegetables like carrots or spinach for a nutrient boost.

What’s the key to achieving perfectly tender rice?

The key is the liquid-to-rice ratio. Stick with the 2:1 ratio in this recipe, and make sure everything is stirred evenly before baking.

Can I use leftover or rotisserie chicken?

Yes! Rotisserie chicken works beautifully here. Just shred or dice it and stir it in. Reduce the bake time by 10-15 minutes since the chicken is already cooked.

How do I prevent the casserole from drying out?

Be sure to cover the dish tightly with foil during the first half of baking. This keeps the moisture locked in and ensures everything stays creamy.

Ready to Make This Mamaw Chicken and Rice Casserole?

This Mamaw chicken and rice casserole is the ultimate no-fail dinner recipe. It’s creamy, hearty, and packed with comforting flavors that are guaranteed to win over your family. Whether you serve it for a regular weeknight meal or a cozy weekend gathering, it’s always a hit.

What will you add to make it your own? Cheese, veggies, or herbs? I’d love to hear your favorite variations or answer any questions you have. Leave a comment below, or tag me on social media with your casserole masterpiece!