When it comes to comforting meals, Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole reigns supreme. It’s not just about the casserole itself but what you pair it with that can really elevate the experience. A fresh garden salad tossed with a simple vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the dish beautifully.
You might also consider buttery garlic bread to soak up the delicious creamy sauce. For a more substantial meal, serve it alongside roasted vegetables like green beans or asparagus; they add a fresh crunch and color to the plate.
Also, don’t forget about a glass of iced tea or lemonade. These light beverages complement the savory notes of the casserole perfectly, making your dining experience more enjoyable.
What is Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole?
Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole is a classic homestyle dish rich in flavor and history. At its core, this casserole consists of tender chicken pieces baked with rice and a creamy mixture often made with condensed soups.
It’s reminiscent of a warm hug, combining comfort and simplicity in one delicious package. The dish is easy enough for weeknight dinners yet special enough for family gatherings or potlucks.
What is the Flavor Profile of This Dish?
Imagine a blend of savory chicken melded with creamy textures and the earthy notes of rice. The flavor profile features:
- Rich Creaminess: Thanks to the combination of cream of chicken, celery, and mushroom soups.
- Subtle Aromatics: Garlic powder and dried parsley add a gentle lift to the overall taste.
- Earthy Undertones: The rice absorbs all the savory goodness, creating a well-rounded dish.
This medley results in a comforting dish that satisfies both the palate and the soul.
What Makes This Recipe Different From Other Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casseroles?
The uniqueness of Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole lies in its simplicity and the specific balance of flavors. While many casseroles might include added vegetables or cheeses, this recipe relies on just a few key ingredients for an authentic flavor reminiscent of my childhood.
The combination of three different condensed soups gives this casserole a distinctive depth that is often lacking in other variations. Each bite bursts with nostalgia, creating a familiar taste that feels like home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 can of condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 can of condensed cream of celery soup
- 1 can of condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley
- 2 cups water
- 2 cups quick-cooking white rice
- 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, chopped into bite-sized pieces
- ½ cup unsalted butter, cut into small chunks
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
These staples, commonly found in most kitchens, make this casserole simple to prepare and utterly delicious.
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your casserole bakes evenly and comes out with that golden top you’re aiming for.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Take your three boneless, skinless chicken breasts and chop them into bite-sized pieces. Make sure to season them with salt and freshly ground black pepper. I usually sprinkle liberally, ensuring every piece has flavor. Set aside.
Step 3: Mix the Soups
In a large mixing bowl, combine the three cans of soup: cream of chicken, cream of celery, and cream of mushroom. Add the teaspoon of garlic powder and tablespoon of dried parsley for added flavor. These aromatics give the dish a warmth that brings your kitchen to life.
Step 4: Combine with Rice and Water
To this mixture, add 2 cups of water and 2 cups of quick-cooking white rice. Stir everything together until well-combined. The consistency should be creamy and slightly runny. This will help the rice cook perfectly while soaking in those lovely flavors.
Step 5: Add the Chicken
Now, fold in the bite-sized chicken pieces. Ensure every piece is coated in that delicious creamy mixture you just made. It’s like a comforting bath for the chicken.
Step 6: Prepare for Baking
Pour the entire mixture into a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish. To finish, dot the top with small chunks of unsalted butter. This will give your casserole a beautiful, rich flavor as it bakes.
Step 7: Bake
Cover your casserole with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 45 minutes. After this time, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes, allowing the top to become golden brown and slightly crispy.
Step 8: Serve
Once it’s out of the oven, let it rest for about 10 minutes. This allows the casserole to set and makes serving a breeze. Then, dig in and enjoy!
Tips on Making Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole
- Use Quality Ingredients: The flavor of the final dish relies heavily on the quality of the soups and chicken. Opt for low-sodium soups if you want to control the salt level.
- Adjust Cook Time: If your chicken is particularly thick or frozen when added, the cooking time might need to be extended. Always check the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Add Herbs: Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can elevate the dish. Just a sprinkle on top before serving can add a lovely touch.
- Make-Ahead: This casserole can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it. Just extend your cooking time if going from cold.
- Experiment with Rice Types: If you’re feeling adventurous, try brown rice for a nuttier flavor. Cook time may differ, so adjust accordingly.
Conclusion
So there you have it. Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole is not just a meal; it’s a slice of home. It brings back memories of family dinners filled with laughter and love. This dish offers comfort through its simplicity, rich flavors, and easy preparation.
By following the steps outlined while keeping our tips in mind, you can create a dish that will be a staple at your own family gatherings. So fire up your oven, gather your ingredients, and invite your loved ones to the table. Memories—and delicious casserole—await!
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Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole – Cheap Delicious Meals
Description
Gather 'round, folks. The world of hearty comfort food is vast and rich with tradition, but few dishes evoke the warmth of home quite like Mamaw's Chicken and Rice Casserole.
This dish carries not just the flavors of chicken, rice, and cream of mushroom soup, but also the whispers of family gatherings and cozy evenings.
Picture this: the aroma wafting through the kitchen as I pull the bubbling casserole from the oven, golden on top and beckoning everyone to the table.
You see, this recipe has been passed down through generations. It’s simple yet satisfying. In a world filled with complicated recipes and exotic ingredients, sometimes it's the straightforward ones that capture our hearts.
This casserole offers not just nourishment but also nostalgia, reminding us of chilly nights spent indoors with family huddled around the table. Plus, it's packed with protein and can serve as a one-dish meal. Your busy evenings just found a hero.
Ingredients
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
-
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your casserole bakes evenly and comes out with that golden top you're aiming for.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
-
Take your three boneless, skinless chicken breasts and chop them into bite-sized pieces. Make sure to season them with salt and freshly ground black pepper. I usually sprinkle liberally, ensuring every piece has flavor. Set aside.
Step 3: Mix the Soups
-
In a large mixing bowl, combine the three cans of soup: cream of chicken, cream of celery, and cream of mushroom. Add the teaspoon of garlic powder and tablespoon of dried parsley for added flavor. These aromatics give the dish a warmth that brings your kitchen to life.
Step 4: Combine with Rice and Water
-
To this mixture, add 2 cups of water and 2 cups of quick-cooking white rice. Stir everything together until well-combined. The consistency should be creamy and slightly runny. This will help the rice cook perfectly while soaking in those lovely flavors.
Step 5: Add the Chicken
-
Now, fold in the bite-sized chicken pieces. Ensure every piece is coated in that delicious creamy mixture you just made. It’s like a comforting bath for the chicken.
Step 6: Prepare for Baking
-
Pour the entire mixture into a greased 9x13-inch casserole dish. To finish, dot the top with small chunks of unsalted butter. This will give your casserole a beautiful, rich flavor as it bakes.
Step 7: Bake
-
Cover your casserole with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 45 minutes. After this time, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes, allowing the top to become golden brown and slightly crispy.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 408kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 29g45%
- Saturated Fat 12.5g63%
- Cholesterol 81mg27%
- Sodium 674mg29%
- Total Carbohydrate 18g6%
- Dietary Fiber 1g4%
- Sugars 1g
- Protein 18g36%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- Use Quality Ingredients: The flavor of the final dish relies heavily on the quality of the soups and chicken. Opt for low-sodium soups if you want to control the salt level.
- Adjust Cook Time: If your chicken is particularly thick or frozen when added, the cooking time might need to be extended. Always check the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Add Herbs: Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can elevate the dish. Just a sprinkle on top before serving can add a lovely touch.
- Make-Ahead: This casserole can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the fridge until you're ready to bake it. Just extend your cooking time if going from cold.
- Experiment with Rice Types: If you’re feeling adventurous, try brown rice for a nuttier flavor. Cook time may differ, so adjust accordingly.
