Mamaw’s Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole

Mamaw’s Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole is a classic comfort food dish that’s rich, creamy, and packed with flavor. Combining tender chicken, rice, and a creamy sauce, this casserole is a perfect family meal that’s both hearty and satisfying. It’s an easy-to-make dish that will bring warmth and comfort to your table, reminiscent of home-cooked meals passed down through generations.

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

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the rice, chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Stir in the cooked, shredded chicken and half of the shredded cheddar cheese.
4. Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
5. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
6. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top.
7. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Once done, garnish with chopped parsley and serve.

Servings and Timing

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

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: You can replace the shredded chicken with cooked vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or peas to create a vegetarian version of the casserole.
• Cheese Variations: While cheddar cheese is the standard, you can try other cheese options like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a combination of your favorites.
• Add Spices: Feel free to customize the seasoning by adding herbs like thyme, rosemary, or basil for a different flavor profile.
• Crispier Topping: For a crispy topping, add some breadcrumbs or crushed crackers mixed with a little melted butter on top before the final baking step.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or until heated through. You can also reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, covered with foil to retain moisture.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice? Yes, brown rice can be substituted, but it will need a longer cooking time. Be sure to adjust the amount of chicken broth accordingly.
2. Can I use a different type of soup? Yes, if you prefer, you can substitute the cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom or cream of celery for a different flavor.
3. Can I use uncooked rice in this recipe? It’s best to use pre-cooked rice or parboiled rice, as uncooked rice may not cook properly in the casserole and could end up hard.
4. How can I make this casserole spicier? Add a bit of hot sauce, cayenne pepper, or jalapeños to the mixture for an extra kick.
5. Can I freeze this casserole? Yes, this casserole freezes well. Assemble it in the baking dish, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
6. Can I use rotisserie chicken? Yes, rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and works wonderfully in this recipe. Just shred the chicken and mix it in as directed.
7. Can I add vegetables to this casserole? Absolutely! You can stir in peas, carrots, or even spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
8. Do I need to cook the chicken before adding it to the casserole? Yes, the chicken should be cooked and shredded before being added to the casserole.
9. Can I make this recipe in advance? Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the point of baking, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Bake as directed when you’re ready to serve.
10. What can I serve with this casserole? A light salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread are great sides to serve with this creamy and filling casserole.

Conclusion

Mamaw’s Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole is the epitome of comfort food, combining tender chicken, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked rice. This simple, one-dish meal is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a potluck, this casserole will surely be a hit! Try it with some of the variations, or enjoy it as-is for a classic, hearty meal.

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