Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole

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Comfort food doesn’t get much more classic than Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole. This creamy, cheesy, and hearty dish is the kind of meal that brings the whole family to the table. Packed with tender shredded chicken, fluffy rice, and a rich sauce that gets golden and bubbly in the oven, it’s the perfect recipe for busy weeknights or cozy Sunday dinners.

What makes this casserole extra special is its simplicity. It uses basic pantry staples and delivers big on nostalgic flavor — the kind that reminds you of dinners at grandma’s house. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just want leftovers that reheat like a dream, this dish checks all the boxes.

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

• Simple ingredients: No need for fancy items or hard-to-find groceries. Just wholesome, everyday ingredients.
• One-pan comfort: Everything bakes together in one dish, making cleanup a breeze.
• Perfect for leftovers: The flavors get even better the next day.
• Customizable: Add veggies, swap in brown rice, or use rotisserie chicken to save time.
• Freezer-friendly: Make it ahead and bake it when you need it.

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What Kind of Chicken Works Best?

Shredded rotisserie chicken is ideal for this recipe because it’s quick, flavorful, and moist. However, you can also use cooked chicken breasts or thighs — just make sure they’re seasoned and tender. If you’re cooking the chicken yourself, consider poaching or baking it with a bit of salt, pepper, and garlic powder for flavor.

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Ingredients for the Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole

This dish is all about creating that creamy, savory base with a golden top. Each ingredient plays a vital role in building layers of comfort and flavor:

• Cooked Shredded Chicken: The heart of the dish, giving it substance and protein.
• Cooked White Rice: Acts as the base, soaking up all the creamy goodness.
• Cream of Chicken Soup: Adds richness and a velvety texture.
• Sour Cream: Gives the casserole a tangy kick and extra creaminess.
• Cheddar Cheese: Melts beautifully into the mixture and crisps on top.
• Onion (chopped): Adds sweetness and depth to the casserole.
• Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning the layers.
• Chopped Green Onions (optional garnish): For a pop of color and freshness.

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How To Make the Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Filling

In a large bowl, combine the cooked shredded chicken, cooked white rice, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, chopped onion, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well mixed.

Step 3: Add the Cheese

Fold in half of the shredded cheddar cheese. This ensures melty goodness throughout the casserole.

Step 4: Bake Until Bubbly

Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Top with the remaining cheddar cheese. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and the casserole is bubbly.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Once baked, remove from oven and let sit for 5 minutes. Sprinkle chopped green onions on top for extra flavor and color.

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How to Serve and Store Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole

This casserole serves 6 to 8 people depending on portion sizes, making it a fantastic choice for family dinners or gatherings.

To store leftovers, transfer the cooled casserole into airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave individual servings.

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What to Serve With Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole?

1. Steamed Broccoli

The freshness and crunch of broccoli pairs perfectly with the creamy richness of the casserole.

2. Green Beans Almondine

Adds texture and a nutty finish that balances the soft, cheesy dish.

3. Garden Salad with Ranch

A fresh salad with crisp lettuce, cucumbers, and ranch dressing brings brightness to the meal.

4. Garlic Bread

Great for soaking up any cheesy goodness left on the plate.

5. Roasted Carrots

Naturally sweet and slightly caramelized, they make a beautiful and tasty side.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, you can substitute cooked brown rice. Just make sure it’s fully cooked beforehand, as it won’t soften much more in the oven.

2. Can I add vegetables to this casserole?

Absolutely! Frozen peas, corn, or chopped spinach can be mixed into the filling. Just thaw and drain them first to avoid excess moisture.

3. Is there a dairy-free version of this recipe?

You can use a dairy-free cream soup and sour cream alternative. For cheese, look for a plant-based shredded cheese that melts well.

4. Can I prep this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the entire casserole and store it in the refrigerator (covered) for up to 24 hours before baking. You can also freeze it unbaked for future meals.

5. What other proteins can I use instead of chicken?

Turkey is a great substitute, especially around the holidays. You can also try cooked ground turkey or leftover pork roast. See our Turkey Tetrazzini for another cozy idea.

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