Mamaw's Chicken and Rice Casserole

Mamaw's Chicken and Rice Casserole is a cozy dish that takes 1 hour to prepare. This easy bake features tender chicken, creamy soup, and veggies for 6 servings. Perfect for family dinners!

about introduction

when it comes to heartwarming comfort food, few dishes rival the charm of mamaw's chicken and rice casserole, this classic recipe has been passed down through generations, bringing families together over its rich flavors and creamy texture, originating from the southern united states, this casserole is a staple in many households, serving as a reminder of warm family gatherings and cherished memories around the dinner table .

what sets mamaw's chicken and rice casserole apart is its simplicity combined with robust flavors, the blend of tender chicken, creamy mushroom soup, and vibrant vegetables creates a dish that not only satisfies hunger but also nourishes the soul, it's an easy - to - make meal that brings warmth to any occasion whether it's a chilly evening or a busy weeknight, plus, this casserole can be made ahead of time, making it perfect for meal prep enthusiasts or anyone looking to save some time in the kitchen.

the complete guide to authentic mamaw's chicken and rice casserole

mamaw's chicken and rice casserole boasts a rich culinary heritage rooted in home cooking traditions across america, its fascinating origin story lies within southern kitchens where frugality meets flavor making use of leftover chicken or rotisserie finds while elevating them into something downright delicious. this dish reflects cultural significance by embodying values like family bonding and sharing meals together .

in modern times, mamaw's chicken and rice casserole has gained immense popularity for its comforting qualities, with countless variations popping up on social media platforms like instagram or tiktok, everyone seems eager to put their own spin on this timeless classic while still honoring its roots, whether you're enjoying it during sunday dinners or potlucks with friends, this dish remains beloved by all who try it.

why this recipe will amaze you

one bite of mamaw's chicken and rice casserole will whisk you away with unique flavor combinations that dance across your palate. imagine juicy shredded chicken mingling beautifully with creamy mushroom soup the savory notes balanced out by sweet peas and carrots it’s pure bliss.

this recipe employs foolproof techniques that even novice cooks can master effortlessly; sautéing aromatics enhances depth without overwhelming complexity. and don't worry if you're not an expert chef; i promise you’ll nail this one on your first go thanks to tried - and - true methods honed over years spent cooking alongside my own mamaw .

time - saving tips are also built right into this recipe : most ingredients come together quickly so you won't be stuck slaving away in front of the stove after a long day at work. just toss everything into one big mixing bowl and voilà a delicious meal awaits.

health & nutrition highlights

now let's talk nutrition because we all want our comfort food choices to offer something more than just indulgence. each serving of mamaw’s chicken and rice casserole delivers key nutritional benefits including protein - rich chicken paired perfectly with fiber - filled veggies like carrots this combo promotes satiety while keeping energy levels steady throughout your busy days .

dietary considerations ? no problem here. adaptable as ever you can easily swap out certain ingredients if allergies are present (for example using gluten - free rice) making it suitable for various eating habits without sacrificing taste.

wellness advantages abound too : wholesome ingredients contribute towards balanced nutrition facts per serving offering approximately 320 calories loaded up with roughly 25 grams of protein along with essential vitamins from those colorful veggies sprinkled throughout .

recipe at a glance

ready to whip up some magic ? here’s what you need to know about preparing mamaw’s chicken & rice casserole :

• total preparation time : a breezy 15 minutes gets things rolling.
• skill level required : easy peasy you don’t need fancy skills here .
• serving size details : perfectly serves six hungry tummies.
• cost efficiency : budget - friendly goodness means feeds large groups without breaking bank accounts wide open .

so gather those ingredients today because once you've tasted mamaw's chicken & rice casserole it might just become your new go - to favorite too.

perfect ingredients selection

creating the perfect mamaw's chicken and rice casserole starts with choosing the right ingredients, here’s a guide to help you select premium core ingredients, signature seasonings, smart substitutions, and essential kitchen equipment .

premium core ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced) : for this casserole, using chicken that’s juicy and flavorful is key, you can go for rotisserie chicken for convenience or cook your own, if you're using leftovers, just make sure they’re fully cooked through. store any extra in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days .

• 1 cup long - grain white rice : this type of rice works best as it cooks evenly and lends a wonderful texture, look for grains that are uniform in size without broken pieces, keep your rice stored in a cool, dry place ideally in an airtight container to maintain freshness .

• 3 cups chicken broth (or stock) : homemade is always better if you have time. but store - bought works fine too just check labels for low - sodium options so you can control salt levels later on, broth should be kept sealed in the pantry until opened; once opened, use within 4–5 days when refrigerated .

• 1 can (10 .5 oz) cream of mushroom soup : choose a brand that uses real mushrooms rather than artificial flavors this makes all the difference. if you're feeling adventurous, try making your own cream of mushroom soup from scratch, unopened cans last quite a while in your pantry but once open ? use it quickly.

• 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn; thawed if possible) : fresh veggies are great if you have them on hand. however, frozen mixed veggies offer convenience and good nutrition too since they're often flash - frozen at peak ripeness, thaw them before adding to your casserole; otherwise they might release excess moisture during cooking .

• 1 medium onion , finely chopped : onions add depth to any dish. go for firm ones with no soft spots or blemishes the sweeter varieties like vidalia also work well here if that's what you prefer .

• 2 cloves garlic , minced : fresh garlic packs more flavor than pre - minced versions but hey if you're short on time…use what's available. garlic should be firm without sprouting green shoots; store it cool and dry away from light .

signature seasoning blend

to elevate your mamaw's chicken and rice casserole even further :

• ½ teaspoon paprika : sweet or smoked paprika adds warmth to dishes a little goes a long way.

• ½ teaspoon dried thyme : try to get high - quality dried herbs they pack more flavor than cheaper brands, thyme gives this dish its comforting aroma.

• salt & pepper to taste : always taste as you go along it’s how we learn what flavors balance nicely together.

smart substitutions

sometimes life throws curveballs you might not have everything on hand :

• chicken : rotisserie chicken is fabulous here but feel free to use turkey instead if you've got some leftover from thanksgiving.

• rice : brown rice can substitute easily though remember it takes longer to cook so adjust timing accordingly by adding 30 minutes covered before uncovering .

• vegetables : switch out mixed veggies for whatever’s seasonal broccoli florets or bell peppers give great color and taste variations.

kitchen equipment essentials

making this delicious casserole requires some tools :

must - have tools

1, large skillet – for sautéing those aromatics beautifully . 1, mixing bowl – to combine all those mouthwatering ingredients seamlessly . 1, baking dish – a classic 9x13 inch will do perfectly.

recommended appliances

• oven thermometer – ensures accurate temperatures because nothing ruins dinner like undercooked food.
• microwave – great option when reheating leftovers or defrosting frozen veg quickly .

helpful gadgets

• silicone spatula – it helps scrape every bit of goodness out of bowls without wasting anything.
• measuring cups & spoons - precise measurements make all the difference when following recipes closely .

pro ingredient tips

here are some nifty secrets i’ve picked up along my cooking journey :

1, when shopping for fresh ingredients like onions or garlic look out for firmness that usually indicates freshness .

1, avoid buying packaged shredded cheese it costs more compared with blocks plus freshly grated melts better into casseroles .

3a) if buying canned goods aim towards organic varieties they're often tastier overall due their lack preservatives which could clash against other flavors later on .

3b) don’t forget about bulk bins they typically offer fantastic savings especially where spices/herbs concerned.

4, finally ? remember leftovers freeze well too. portion out any extra servings into freezer - safe containers after cooling completely so they stay tasty next week when hunger strikes again.

so there ya go the ins - and - outs behind selecting top - notch ingredients while whipping up mamaw's chicken and rice casserole. happy cooking friends i can't wait till we dig into those warm plates together soon enough..

mamaw's chicken and rice casserole : master chef's method

essential preparation steps

before diving into the cooking, it’s crucial to get everything in order, this is called mise en place – a fancy term for having all your ingredients ready, for this casserole, you'll need 2 cups of cooked chicken (shredded or diced), 1 cup of long - grain white rice, and 3 cups of chicken broth, grab a can of cream of mushroom soup too .

next, chop one medium onion and mince two cloves of garlic, you'll also want to measure out your spices like paprika and dried thyme ahead of time about ½ teaspoon each and have salt and pepper on hand .

time management is key. while you’re prepping the veggies, preheat your oven to 350°f (175°c), that way, it’ll be nice and hot when you're ready to bake the casserole, another tip ? set up your workspace so everything flows smoothly; having a clean counter helps keep things organized .

professional cooking method

now that you have everything ready, let’s cook. start by heating either olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat, once it melts usually about a minute add the chopped onions, sauté them for about three minutes until they're soft and translucent .

add those minced garlic cloves next; they only need about another minute until fragrant, it smells amazing already.

in a big mixing bowl, combine your cooked chicken, rice, chicken broth, cream of mushroom soup, sautéed onions and garlic mixture, frozen mixed vegetables (thawed if possible), paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper, give it a good stir until every bit is well combined .

transfer this hearty mix into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish; cover tightly with aluminum foil before popping it into the oven for around 45 minutes at that same temperature we preheated earlier .

expert techniques

timing is everything here. after those initial 45 minutes are done you’ll know it's time when you smell that delicious aroma wafting through your kitchen carefully remove the foil from the casserole dish, if you're using parmesan cheese (which i highly recommend.), sprinkle about ¼ cup on top now.

return it back to the oven uncovered for another 15 minutes so that cheesy goodness can melt beautifully over top while giving you some slight browning action on those edges a visual indicator that it's nearly done.

keep an eye on that timer because once it's been cooking uncovered for those last few minutes the rice should be tender but not mushy that's how you know you've hit success.

success strategies

let’s talk troubleshooting because sometimes things just don’t go as planned even in our cherished family recipes like mamaw's chicken and rice casserole. if during baking you find there's still liquid at bottom after an hour total cooking time (covered then uncovering), don't panic. just give it more time but also check if perhaps more broth was added than needed initially .

quality assurance matters; always taste - test before serving up heaping portions onto plates it gives me peace knowing my food tastes good first.

when you're finally ready to serve this comforting dish after letting it rest for about five to ten minutes post - baking that resting period allows flavors to meld together nicely just take those final touches seriously : a sprinkle more cheese or fresh herbs really brings things together beautifully.

in summary : prepare all ingredients first while managing timing wisely during prep steps; control temperatures diligently throughout cooking process; ensure quality checks along way with tasting before sharing scrumptious meals with loved ones ensures everyone enjoys mamaw’s classic recipe just as much as we do.

so there you have it a step - by - step guide focused entirely on getting perfect results with mamaw's chicken and rice casserole without any stress involved along journey. enjoy every bite it warms hearts just like home - cooked meals should.

expert kitchen wisdom

when it comes to cooking mamaw's chicken and rice casserole, a few expert techniques can take your dish from good to great, first off, make sure your chicken is perfectly cooked before mixing it into the casserole, overcooked chicken ? oof. that's not what we want, use a meat thermometer to check for doneness 165°f is your magic number.

another tip ? invest in quality broth, it truly elevates the flavor of your casserole, homemade chicken broth is ideal if you have time; otherwise, go for a low - sodium store - bought option that still packs a punch without overwhelming saltiness .

lastly, don't rush the sautéing process, caramelizing those onions and garlic will add depth to your dish that’s hard to beat.

perfect presentation

now let's talk about how to make this comforting casserole look as delicious as it tastes. plating may seem trivial for some recipes but trust me it matters here. a simple way to elevate presentation is by using a larger serving platter instead of just the baking dish .

for garnishing, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley or chives right before serving; it adds color and freshness that instantly brightens up the plate, if you're feeling fancy (and who doesn't love being fancy ?), try drizzling a little olive oil around the edge of the plate for an elegant touch .

as for serving suggestions, pair this with a light mixed green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or maybe even roasted brussels sprouts on the side a perfect balance of flavors.

storage & make - ahead

planning ahead ? you’re in luck. mamaw's chicken and rice casserole stores beautifully, just let it cool completely before transferring leftovers into airtight containers; they’ll last up to 3 days in the fridge .

if you're looking at long - term storage options, consider freezing individual portions wrapped tightly in plastic wrap followed by foil this helps prevent freezer burn, when it's time to reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and pop it back into a preheated oven until warmed through about 25–30 minutes at 350°f should do nicely.

to maintain freshness during storage, avoid adding any toppings like cheese until you are ready to bake again that'll keep everything crispy instead of soggy .

creative variations

feeling adventurous ? let’s spice things up with some creative variations on mamaw's classic recipe. you could swap out traditional long - grain white rice for brown rice if you prefer something heartier just note you'll need extra cooking time (add about half an hour) .

vegetables also offer endless possibilities : why not throw in some roasted red peppers or spinach ? they blend wonderfully and bring nutrition along with vibrant color. for added richness, think about tossing in cream cheese or cheddar cheese along with parmesan when baking; yum.

and don’t forget seasonal twists use pumpkin puree during autumn months for warmth or fresh asparagus come springtime you might discover new family favorites along the way.

expert faq solutions

got questions while making this delightful casserole ? you're not alone. one common concern is whether it's okay if my rice seems undercooked after baking the answer is yes. the residual heat will continue cooking while resting post - oven so don’t stress too much over timing .

if you've got leftover moisture after baking or worse a watery mess ? this can happen sometimes due to excess liquid from frozen veggies; next time just defrost them first before incorporating them into your mixture .

finally, success tips include tasting throughout preparation stages so you can adjust seasonings according to preference you know best what tickles those taste buds.

complete nutrition guide

let’s break down why mamaw's chicken and rice casserole isn’t just comforting but also nutritious too. each serving roughly contains around 320 calories packed with protein thanks largely due its chicken content (around 25g per portion.) .

it's balanced well between healthy fats found mostly from olive oil/butter used during sautéing plus fiber provided by mixed vegetables you’ve got yourself quite well - rounded meal here folks.

portion guidance suggests sticking close towards one - sixth of total recipe yield when plating up .this encourages moderation while still allowing room for sides without going overboard a win - win situation all round.

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