Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole combines tender chicken
Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, creamy soup, savory seasonings, and melted cheddar cheese into one comforting baked meal. Easy to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this casserole is creamy, hearty, and full of classic Southern flavor. Its one-pan convenience and rich taste make it a dependable recipe that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients
For the Casserole
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
- 1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional Topping
- ½ cup crushed buttery crackers
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the uncooked rice, chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, melted butter, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, parsley, salt, and pepper.
- Add the cooked chicken, diced onion, garlic, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until evenly combined.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top.
- If using the topping, mix the crushed crackers, melted butter, and Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle evenly over the casserole.
- Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil.
- Bake for 45 minutes.
- Remove the foil and continue baking for 15–20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the top is golden brown.
- Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
- Rotisserie chicken is a convenient time-saving option.
- Use long-grain white rice for the best texture.
- Keep the casserole covered during the first stage of baking to ensure the rice cooks evenly.
- Freshly grated cheese melts more smoothly than pre-shredded cheese.
- Add a splash of broth if the casserole appears dry before baking is complete.
- Allow the casserole to rest before serving so it sets properly.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Reheat with a little chicken broth to maintain a creamy consistency.