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Here’s what you need for this tasty Chicken Wild Rice Casserole: - 2 cups cooked wild rice - 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced - 1 medium onion, chopped - 2 cups mushrooms, sliced - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 cup frozen peas - 1 cup cream of chicken soup - 1 cup chicken broth - Seasonings: thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper - Toppings: 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, ½ cup breadcrumbs Each ingredient plays a key role. The wild rice adds a nutty flavor and chewy texture. Chicken brings protein and heartiness. Onions and garlic give a strong base for flavor. Mushrooms add earthiness, while peas bring a pop of sweetness. The cream of chicken soup and broth create a creamy sauce. Topping it all with cheese and breadcrumbs gives a golden, crispy finish. With these ingredients, you’re set for a cozy dinner. Enjoy the blend of flavors and textures. {{ingredient_image_1}} - Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). - In a large skillet, add a splash of oil. - Sauté diced chicken until browned and cooked through. - Season with salt, pepper, thyme, and parsley. - Remove the chicken and set aside. - In the same skillet, add chopped onion and minced garlic. - Sauté until the onion turns translucent, about 3-4 minutes. - Add sliced mushrooms to the skillet. - Cook until the mushrooms are tender and moist. - In a large bowl, mix cooked wild rice, chicken, and sautéed vegetables. - Add frozen peas, cream of chicken soup, and chicken broth. - Stir until everything is well combined. - Transfer the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. - Top with shredded cheddar cheese and breadcrumbs for extra crunch. - Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. - After 25 minutes, remove the foil. - Bake for an additional 15 minutes until golden and bubbly. - Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. You can make this casserole ahead for busy nights. First, cook the wild rice and chicken. Then, mix all the ingredients in a large bowl. Cover and store it in the fridge. You can bake it later. This saves time and effort after a long day. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time. To get the right texture, balance is key. For a creamy casserole, use enough cream of chicken soup and broth. This helps create a rich sauce. If you want a drier casserole, reduce the liquid. Always watch the baking time. A golden top means it's done, while a soggy top needs more time. Season your casserole to make it pop! Try adding fresh herbs like rosemary or dill. They give bright flavors. You can also add vegetables like carrots or bell peppers. For a twist, use cooked bacon or ham for added flavor. Just mix them in with the other ingredients for a fun surprise in every bite! Pro Tips Use Leftover Chicken: This is a great recipe for using up leftover roasted chicken or rotisserie chicken, saving you time and enhancing flavor. Customize Vegetables: Feel free to add or substitute your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition and flavor. Make it Ahead: Prepare the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate it. Just bake it when you're ready to serve. Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese such as mozzarella or gouda for a unique twist on flavor. {{image_2}} You can easily make this casserole gluten-free. Use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of regular ones. For the soup, swap in gluten-free cream of chicken soup or make your own with cornstarch and broth. This keeps the dish creamy and tasty. Want a meat-free meal? Replace the chicken with your favorite veggies. Try using broccoli, bell peppers, or carrots for a colorful mix. Tofu is another great option. It absorbs flavors well and adds protein. If you prefer different chicken cuts, try using thighs. They are juicier and add more flavor. You could even use rotisserie chicken for a quick option. Just shred it and mix it in. This saves time and still brings great taste. To keep your Chicken Wild Rice Casserole fresh, use these tips: - Refrigerate: Let the casserole cool before placing it in an airtight container. - Freeze: For longer storage, wrap the casserole tightly in plastic wrap and foil. For the best taste, follow these steps: - Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes. - Microwave Method: Use a microwave-safe dish. Heat in 1-minute bursts, stirring in between, until warm. Understanding how long your casserole lasts is key: - In the fridge: It stays fresh for about 3 to 4 days. - In the freezer: It lasts up to 3 months. Always label and date your containers! Yes, you can use regular rice. However, wild rice has a unique texture and nutty flavor. Regular rice will cook faster and may turn mushy. If you choose white rice, reduce the cooking time. For brown rice, adjust the cooking time and water. The dish may taste different, but it can still be tasty. You have several options. You can use cream of mushroom soup for a similar flavor. If you prefer a lighter option, try using plain Greek yogurt or sour cream. For a vegan choice, consider coconut milk or a homemade cashew cream. Each option brings its own taste, so choose what you like best. Yes, this casserole is great for freezing. Assemble it fully, then cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap. It can stay in the freezer for up to three months. To thaw, move it to the fridge for a night. Bake as usual, adding extra time if it's still cold. Enjoy a warm meal when you need it! This article gives you a complete guide to making chicken wild rice casserole. You learned about the key ingredients, how to prepare them, and tips for success. With variations for gluten-free and vegetarian diets, there’s something for everyone. Proper storage tips help keep your dish fresh. In short, this casserole is not just easy to make but also customizable. Enjoy your cooking adventure and share this dish with family and friends!

Creamy Chicken Wild Rice Casserole

A comforting casserole made with chicken, wild rice, and creamy sauce, topped with cheese and breadcrumbs.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 400 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups cooked wild rice
  • 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cups mushrooms, sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • 1 cup cream of chicken soup
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon thyme
  • 1 teaspoon parsley
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 0.5 cup breadcrumbs

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • In a large skillet over medium heat, add a splash of oil and sauté the diced chicken until browned and cooked through. Season with salt, pepper, thyme, and parsley. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  • In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
  • Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook until they have released their moisture and are tender.
  • In a large bowl, combine the cooked wild rice, sautéed chicken, mushroom mix, frozen peas, cream of chicken soup, and chicken broth. Mix until well combined.
  • Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
  • Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top, followed by the breadcrumbs for a crispy topping.
  • Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
  • After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
  • Let it cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the casserole to set.

Notes

Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving to allow it to set.
Keyword casserole, chicken, comfort food, wild rice