Mamaw’s Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole is a comforting, hearty dish perfect for family dinners. This recipe brings together tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a creamy, cheesy sauce that’s baked to perfection. Simple to make and rich in flavor, it’s a great option for a meal that will satisfy everyone at the table.

Ingredients

1 cup long grain white rice
2 cups chicken broth
1 can cream of chicken soup
1 cup sour cream
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Directions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large bowl, mix together the rice, chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Stir in the cooked chicken and half of the shredded cheese.
Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
Remove foil, sprinkle remaining cheese on top, and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 6

Variations

Vegetarian Option: Omit the chicken and substitute with sautéed mushrooms or other vegetables like peas, carrots, or broccoli for a hearty vegetarian casserole.
Spicy Twist: Add a teaspoon of hot sauce, red pepper flakes, or a chopped jalapeño to give the casserole a bit of heat.
Cheese Variety: While cheddar cheese works wonderfully, you can substitute with a blend of mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Gouda for a different flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or in the oven. If reheating in the oven, cover the casserole with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Add extra cheese on top for a melty finish.

10 FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice? Yes, but you may need to adjust the cooking time and increase the liquid to accommodate the longer cooking time of brown rice.
Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate it before baking. Just increase the baking time slightly if baking from the fridge.
Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking my own? Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken works great in this recipe and saves time.
Can I freeze this casserole? Yes, you can freeze the unbaked casserole. Cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 2-3 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
Can I use a different type of soup? You can try substituting the cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup for a slight variation in flavor.
What other seasonings can I add? You can add herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley for extra flavor. A pinch of cayenne pepper could also add a nice kick.
How do I make the casserole more creamy? For a richer casserole, increase the amount of sour cream or use a combination of sour cream and heavy cream.
Can I use instant rice instead of long-grain rice? It’s best to use long-grain rice for this recipe as it cooks evenly and absorbs the liquid well. If using instant rice, reduce the chicken broth slightly.
Can I use different cheese? Yes, you can substitute the cheddar cheese with mozzarella, Parmesan, or a cheese blend, depending on your preference.
Can I add vegetables to this casserole? Absolutely! You can stir in vegetables like peas, carrots, or green beans for added nutrition and flavor.

Conclusion

Mamaw’s Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole is the epitome of comfort food. It combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a creamy, cheesy sauce to create a meal that’s as satisfying as it is easy to prepare. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a weekend gathering, this casserole is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.