Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole: A Family Favorite
Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole is a scrumptious and hearty dish bursting with creamy flavors that make it an all-time family favorite. This delightful recipe, passed down from one generation to the next, shines as a comforting meal that’s both quick and easy for busy school nights. The best part? The leftovers are equally satisfying, allowing you to enjoy the delectable taste of this chicken and rice casserole the following day.
Recipe Overview and Yield
This Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole recipe is designed to serve six people and includes a simple preparation process that takes just 10 minutes. After an hour of baking and 10 minutes of additional preparation time, you’ll be ready to serve a delicious meal that will please even the pickiest eaters. The total cooking time amounts to approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes. The ease of preparation and the comforting flavors make this chicken and rice casserole a go-to dish for those hectic evenings.
Ingredients for Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole
– Chicken breasts, cut into cubes – 3
– Water – 2 cups
– Rice, instant white – 2 cups
– Condensed cream of chicken soup – 1 can (10.75 ounces)
– Condensed cream of celery soup – 1 can (10.75 ounces)
– Condensed cream of mushroom soup – 1 can (10.75 ounces)
– Salt and ground black pepper to taste
– Butter, sliced into pats – ½ cup
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole
1. Firstly, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it is hot enough when your ingredients are ready.
2. Meanwhile, in a large mixing bowl, combine the cubed chicken breasts, 2 cups of water, and 2 cups of instant rice.
3. Then, add the cans of cream of chicken, cream of celery, and cream of mushroom soup.
4. Mix these ingredients thoroughly, creating a harmonious blend of flavors that will be the foundation of your casserole.
5. Add salt and ground black pepper to taste for seasoning.
Baking the Casserole
1. Next, transfer the well-mixed casserole ingredients into a 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading them evenly.
2. Distribute the pats of butter across the top. The butter enhances the moisture and flavor, giving it that rich, Southern style.
3. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil, then bake in your preheated oven for about 1 hour.
Serving the Casserole
1. After baking, remove the foil, allowing your chicken and rice casserole to cool slightly.
2. Consequently, the casserole becomes easier to serve. You’ll find the aroma to be completely irresistible at this point.
3. Finally, serve the casserole straight from the oven and enjoy the everlasting warmth of comfort food.
Optional Healthier Cooking Method
For a healthier version, consider reducing the butter amount by half. Moreover, you could use a light cream of chicken soup to reduce the overall calorie count. On the other hand, substituting traditional white rice with brown rice adds fiber, turning this dish into a more nutritious meal without missing any flavor. This alternative offers more health benefits while maintaining the comforting essence of Mamaw’s recipe.
Why You’ll Adore This Chicken and Rice Casserole
This recipe shines because of its simplicity and nostalgic flavors. It’s a perfect combination of creamy textures and savory tastes that come together to create a meal suitable for all ages. Above all, Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole is a comforting dish that warms the soul. Indeed, preparing this meal evokes cherished family memories, bringing joy to your table.
In conclusion, try this beloved family recipe and experience its heartwarming taste for yourself. Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole isn’t just a dish; it’s a tradition wrapped in flavor.
