Name: Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 1 h 15 min
Total time: 1 h 25 min
Cuisine: American
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 pepper, to taste; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, sliced into pats

Jump to Recipe

Some meals wrap you in warmth from the first bite—and Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole is one of them. This creamy chicken casserole is a love letter to comfort food, the kind of hearty dish passed down through generations and made for second helpings.

Perfect for busy weeknights, lazy Sundays, or feeding a hungry crew, this baked rice dish takes simple pantry staples and transforms them into a soul-soothing dinner. Plus, it all bakes up in one pan with minimal prep and cleanup.

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

A creamy, dreamy texture that comforts every bite.
Classic ingredients, no fancy tools or techniques.
Hearty enough for the hungriest family member.
It reheats beautifully for next-day lunches.

Ingredients You’ll Need

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

How to Make This Creamy Chicken Casserole

Preheat your oven to 400°F. Grease a large casserole dish.
In the dish, mix chicken, water, rice, and all three soups until well combined.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Evenly distribute butter pats over the top.
Bake uncovered for 60 to 75 minutes, until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
Let cool for 10–15 minutes before serving.

Tips for a Baked Rice Dish That Shines

Want to use brown rice? Pre-cook it slightly or extend the baking time.
For extra flavor, sprinkle shredded cheddar or parmesan over the top during the last 10 minutes of baking.
Add veggies like peas or broccoli if you want a one-dish meal.
Stir halfway through baking if your oven runs hot to prevent crispy edges.

A Recipe Passed Down with Love

This casserole has been in our family since I was little—straight from Mamaw’s kitchen, where everything was made with love and a generous helping of comfort. I remember the smell filling her house as we gathered around the table, and how she always made just enough for leftovers because “it tastes even better tomorrow.”

Now I make it for my own family when we need a taste of home. It never fails to bring back those memories and spark new ones.

What to Serve with Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole

Round out this comforting meal with a side of steamed green beans or a crisp salad. Some crusty bread or dinner rolls are perfect for soaking up every bit of that creamy sauce. A glass of sweet tea or lemonade? Perfection.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

To reheat, cover with foil and warm in the oven at 325°F until heated through, or microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes. Add a splash of water or broth if it seems dry.

FAQs: All About This Classic Family Casserole

Can I prep this ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the dish, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead?

Sure—just reduce bake time slightly since the chicken is already cooked.

Can I make it in a slow cooker?

Yes! Cook on low for about 4 hours, but make sure to use instant rice or add it in the last hour.

Why use three types of soup?

They each add depth of flavor and creaminess. It’s Mamaw’s secret to that rich, irresistible taste.

Final Bite: Why Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole Is a Keeper

When comfort food calls, this Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole answers with creamy goodness, nostalgic flavor, and an ease that makes it doable any night of the week. Whether you’re feeding family, bringing a dish to share, or just craving something soul-soothing, this baked rice dish never disappoints. It’s more than a recipe—it’s a memory in the making.

Discover more delicious recipes by following me on Facebook and Pinterest.