Nothing says home-cooked comfort like Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole! This easy, creamy, and flavorful casserole is a classic Southern favorite that’s been passed down for generations. With tender chicken, creamy rice, and a cheesy golden topping, this dish is pure comfort food at its best.
It’s simple to make, budget-friendly, and perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a meal that feels like a warm hug.
Ingredients (Serves 6-8)
For the Casserole:
- 500g (1 lb) chicken breast or thighs, cooked & shredded
- 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
- 1 can (300ml) cream of chicken soup
- 1 can (300ml) cream of mushroom soup
- 250ml (1 cup) chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
For the Topping:
- 150g (1 ½ cups) shredded cheddar cheese
- 100g (1 cup) crushed Ritz crackers or buttered breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat & Prep
1️⃣ Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
2️⃣ Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Mix the Casserole Base
3️⃣ In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, cooked rice, cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4️⃣ Stir everything together until well mixed.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
5️⃣ Spread the chicken and rice mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
Step 4: Add the Topping
6️⃣ Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the casserole.
7️⃣ In a small bowl, mix crushed crackers with melted butter, then sprinkle over the cheese.
Step 5: Bake & Serve
8️⃣ Bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
9️⃣ Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
????️ Serve with a side salad, roasted veggies, or buttered rolls for a complete meal!
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, Approximate)
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 18g
(Values may vary based on ingredients used.)
Tips & Tricks for the Best Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole
✅ Use rotisserie chicken – A time-saving shortcut for easy prep!
✅ Try different cheeses – Swap cheddar for pepper jack, gouda, or mozzarella for extra flavor.
✅ Make it ahead – Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate overnight before baking.
✅ Add veggies – Stir in peas, carrots, or broccoli for extra nutrition.
✅ Make it crunchy – For extra crispiness, bake uncovered for the last 5 minutes.
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