Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe

Ingredients:

  • 1 1/2 cups (300g) long-grain white rice
  • 1 can (10.5 ounces or 298g) condensed cream of chicken soup
  • 1 can (10.5 ounces or 298g) condensed cream of mushroom soup
  • 1 cup (240ml) chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) milk
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 cups (about 10 ounces or 280g) cooked chicken, shredded or diced
  • 1 cup (about 4 ounces or 110g) frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn, etc.)
  • 1 cup (about 4 ounces or 110g) shredded cheddar cheese

Optional topping:

  • 1 cup (about 60g) crushed butter crackers or breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the condensed cream of chicken soup, condensed cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried oregano, dried parsley, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
  3. Add the cooked rice, cooked chicken, and frozen mixed vegetables to the soup mixture, and stir until evenly coated.
  4. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly with a spatula.
  5. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
  6. If desired, sprinkle the crushed butter crackers or breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter evenly over the cheese layer.
  7. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
  8. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is melted and golden brown on top.
  9. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
  10. Enjoy your comforting and delicious Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole with your favorite side dishes or on its own!
  11. This recipe serves about 6-8 people, depending on serving size. It’s a cozy and satisfying dish that’s perfect for family dinners or potlucks. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite herbs, spices, or additional vegetables.

FAQs:

1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice in the casserole?

Answer: Yes, you can use brown rice instead of white rice, but keep in mind that brown rice typically requires a longer cooking time and more liquid. You may need to adjust the baking time and the amount of broth or water used in the recipe. Check the rice for doneness before removing the casserole from the oven, and add more liquid if necessary.

2. Can I use leftover cooked chicken for this recipe?

Answer: Absolutely, leftover cooked chicken works great in this casserole. Simply shred or cut the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces and mix it in with the other ingredients. Using pre-cooked chicken can save time and help reduce the overall baking time.

3. Can I make this casserole ahead of time and bake it later?

Answer: Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it before baking. Assemble the casserole as directed, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then bake as directed. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if the casserole is cold from the fridge.

4. Can I add vegetables to Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole?

Answer: Yes, adding vegetables is a great way to enhance the nutritional value and flavor of the casserole. Common additions include peas, carrots, broccoli, and bell peppers. If using fresh vegetables, consider sautéing them briefly before adding them to the casserole to ensure they cook evenly.

5. How do I prevent the casserole from becoming too dry?

Answer: To prevent the casserole from becoming too dry, make sure to use enough liquid, such as chicken broth or water, when mixing the ingredients. Cover the casserole with aluminum foil during the first part of baking to retain moisture. You can also add a bit of cream of chicken soup or sour cream to the mixture for extra creaminess. If the casserole seems dry after baking, you can stir in a little extra warmed broth before serving.

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