Amazing Chicken and Wild Rice Casserole for Ultimate Comfort

Chicken and wild rice casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender chicken, earthy wild rice, and a medley of vegetables in a creamy sauce that will make your taste buds dance with joy. Each bite tells a story of home-cooked warmth and love, wrapping you in a cozy blanket of flavor. For more inspiration, check out this Amish Country Casserole recipe.

Picture this: it’s a chilly evening, the kind that makes you want to curl up with a good book and a steaming bowl of something delicious. Cue the chicken and wild rice casserole! This dish isn’t just food; it’s an experience—like being hugged by a fluffy cloud while sipping on hot cocoa. Whether it’s a family gathering or just another Tuesday night, this casserole brings everyone together for a hearty meal filled with smiles and satisfied bellies.

Ingredients for chicken and wild rice casserole

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious chicken and wild rice casserole:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding.
• Wild Rice: A blend of wild rice adds nutty flavor and unique texture; check your local store for options.
• Onion: Chopped onions are essential for that savory base; sweet onions work wonders here.
• Celery: Diced celery adds crunch and freshness to the mix; plus, it’s like nature’s little green croutons.
• Carrots: Chopped carrots bring sweetness and color; they’re also a fun way to sneak in some veggies.

For the Sauce:

• Cream of Mushroom Soup: This serves as the magical glue holding everything together—creamy, dreamy goodness!
• Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to keep things flavorful without overwhelming saltiness.
• Soy Sauce: A splash enhances umami flavors; low-sodium options are great for health-conscious cooks.
• Dried Thyme: Adds aromatic warmth; it’s like sprinkling a bit of herbal magic into your dish.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

this Recipes

How to Make chicken and wild rice casserole

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious chicken and wild rice casserole:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab an oven-safe baking dish (about 9×13 inches) and give it a light spray with nonstick cooking spray so nothing sticks!

Step 2: Cook the Wild Rice

In a pot, prepare the wild rice according to package instructions—usually about an hour of simmering bliss until tender. Trust me; this step is crucial as it sets the stage for all those flavors.

Step 3: Sauté Your Veggies

While the rice cooks, heat some olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Toss in chopped onion, celery, and carrots. Sauté until tender—about five minutes should do it. Ahh, that aroma is pure heaven!

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked wild rice, sautéed veggies, diced chicken breasts (cooked or raw if you’re feeling adventurous), cream of mushroom soup, soy sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything’s coated in that creamy goodness.

Step 5: Bake It Up

Transfer this delightful mixture into your prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly like you’re painting a masterpiece! Cover with aluminum foil (to avoid over-browning) and bake for about 45 minutes.

Step 6: Uncover and Serve

After baking time is up, remove the foil for the last ten minutes so it can get all golden-brown on top. Once done, let it sit for five minutes before serving—those flavors need time to mingle! Transfer to plates and drizzle with additional sauce for the perfect finishing touch.

And there you have it! A scrumptious chicken and wild rice casserole that will warm not just your belly but also your heart. Enjoy every bite—it’s like diving into pure comfort food bliss!

Perfecting chicken and wild rice casserole Cooking Process

Start by searing the chicken until it’s golden brown to lock in all those juicy flavors. While that’s happening, cook your wild rice according to package directions, and prepare a creamy sauce with sautéed veggies. Combine everything for maximum deliciousness.

Add Your Touch to chicken and wild rice casserole

Feel free to swap out the chicken for turkey or even tofu if you want a vegetarian twist! Try adding some fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for an extra flavor kick, or toss in some mushrooms if you’re feeling fancy.

Storing & Reheating chicken and wild rice casserole

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to keep it moist and flavorful—nobody wants dry casserole!

Keep your chicken pieces uniform in size to ensure even cooking throughout the casserole.

Don’t skip the searing step; it adds essential depth of flavor that elevates the entire dish.

If using frozen vegetables, add them directly to the casserole without thawing to retain their texture.

Sometimes I whip up this chicken and wild rice casserole when my friends come over; they rave about it every single time! It’s my secret weapon for impressing guests while keeping things simple.

FAQs About chicken and wild rice casserole

What is chicken and wild rice casserole?

Chicken and wild rice casserole is a hearty dish made by combining tender pieces of chicken, flavorful wild rice, and a creamy sauce. This comforting meal often includes vegetables like carrots and celery, enhancing its nutritional value. The dish is baked until bubbly, resulting in a warm and satisfying entree perfect for family dinners or potlucks. Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders The combination of ingredients creates a rich flavor profile that many enjoy. With its ease of preparation, it’s a favorite among busy home cooks looking for delicious comfort food.

How do I make chicken and wild rice casserole?

To make BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese on top if desired. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 30-40 minutes until heated through. Serve hot for a delightful meal.

Can I use leftover chicken in my chicken and wild rice casserole?

Absolutely! Using leftover chicken in your chicken and wild rice casserole is an excellent way to save time while adding flavor. Simply shred or cube the cooked chicken and mix it into the other ingredients before baking. Cranberry Orange Chicken recipe This not only makes the preparation quicker but also ensures that you don’t waste any food. Leftover rotisserie chicken works particularly well in this recipe due to its seasoned flavor.

What sides pair well with chicken and wild rice casserole?

Chicken and wild rice casserole pairs beautifully with various side dishes to create a balanced meal. Consider serving it alongside a fresh green salad for added crunch and nutrients. Steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans also complement this dish nicely without overpowering its flavors. Chicken Burrito Casserole option For those who enjoy heartier options, crusty bread or garlic bread can be served to soak up any extra sauce.

Conclusion for chicken and wild rice casserole

In summary, chicken and wild rice casserole is an easy-to-make dish that brings comforting flavors to your dinner table. Its combination of tender chicken, nutty wild rice, and creamy sauce makes it perfect for family gatherings or weeknight meals. By using leftovers or customizing the ingredients based on your preferences, you can enjoy this recipe in numerous ways. Try making this delightful chicken and wild rice casserole today for a satisfying culinary experience!

Print

Chicken and Wild Rice Casserole

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: maro
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: Serves approximately 6

Save Recipe Recipe Saved

Save Recipe Recipe Saved

Description

Chicken and wild rice casserole is the epitome of comfort food. This hearty dish combines tender chicken, nutty wild rice, and fresh vegetables enveloped in a creamy mushroom sauce. A perfect option for family dinners or potlucks, it delivers warm, satisfying flavors that evoke home. Easy to prepare and customizable, this casserole is sure to delight both busy cooks and dinner guests alike.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
• 1 cup wild rice
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 stalks celery, diced
• 2 medium carrots, chopped
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9×13 inch baking dish with nonstick spray.
2. Cook the wild rice according to package instructions until tender.
3. In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the onion, celery, and carrots in olive oil until tender (about 5 minutes).
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked wild rice, sautéed veggies, diced chicken (cooked or raw), cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, soy sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
5. Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for about 45 minutes.
6. Remove the foil during the last ten minutes to allow the top to brown. Let cool for five minutes before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 370
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 660mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 39g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 27g
• Cholesterol: 80mg