When you need comfort on a plate, few things compare to Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole. This creamy casserole is pure Southern goodness—rich, filling, and baked to golden perfection. With just a handful of pantry staples and one casserole dish, you get a no-fuss, baked chicken recipe that’s as warm and welcoming as a family hug.

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

One-dish wonder: no extra pots or pans
Creamy and comforting with every bite
An easy weeknight dinner that feeds the whole crew
Classic flavours that bring back cosy memories

Ingredients

3 chicken breasts, cubed
2 cups water
2 cups instant white rice
1 can (10.75 oz) cream of chicken soup
1 can (10.75 oz) cream of celery soup
1 can (10.75 oz) cream of mushroom soup
Salt and ground black pepper to taste
1/2 cup butter, sliced into pats

How to Make It

Preheat oven to 400°F. Thoroughly grease a large casserole dish.
In the casserole dish, combine cubed chicken, water, instant rice, and all three cream soups. Stir to mix evenly.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Dot the top of the mixture with pats of butter.
Bake uncovered for 60–75 minutes, or until rice is tender and chicken is cooked through.
Let rest for 10–15 minutes before serving.

Tips for Casserole Success

Use instant rice—regular rice won’t cook properly in the same time.
If the top starts to brown too quickly, loosely cover with foil partway through baking.
You can sub in cooked rotisserie chicken and reduce bake time by 15–20 minutes.
Want a veggie boost? Stir in frozen peas, carrots, or broccoli before baking.

Why It’s a Family Favourite

This was one of the first recipes my grandmother (Mamaw) taught me. She always said, “If you can stir and layer, you can cook.” And she was right. I remember the bubbling edges and buttery aroma like it was yesterday—it’s a dish that feels like home every time.

What to Serve with Chicken and Rice Casserole

Keep it simple with a side salad and rolls or pair with roasted green beans or sautéed zucchini. It’s also delicious with a cranberry sauce or relish to balance the richness.

How to Store and Reheat

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave or warm larger portions in the oven at 350°F until heated through. Add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice?

Not in this version—brown rice requires a different cook time and more liquid.

Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes! Assemble, cover tightly, and freeze before baking. Thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.

Can I make it ahead?

Absolutely. Mix everything, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

The Comfort Food Your Table’s Been Missing

Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole is creamy, cosy, and completely satisfying. Whether you’re serving it on a busy weeknight or bringing it to a potluck, it’s the kind of baked chicken recipe that never goes out of style. Make it once, and it’ll earn a permanent spot in your comfort food rotation.

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