Best Chicken and Wild Rice Casserole

This Chicken and Wild Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender chicken, nutty wild rice, and a creamy, flavorful sauce baked until bubbly and golden. It’s the perfect all-in-one meal that’s easy to prepare, satisfying, and perfect for cozy family dinners or feeding a crowd.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and Satisfying: Packed with protein, veggies, and grains, it’s a complete meal in one dish.
• Perfect Make-Ahead Meal: Assemble it ahead of time and just bake when ready.
• Freezer-Friendly: Ideal for batch cooking and busy weeknights.
• Versatile: Easily adaptable with your favorite veggies, cheeses, or seasoning.
• Great for Leftovers: Tastes even better the next day.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 cup uncooked wild rice
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cooked and shredded)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup diced carrots
• 1 cup diced celery
• 1 cup chopped onion
• 1 cup sliced mushrooms
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 cans (10.5 oz each) cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheddar or Colby cheese (plus more for topping, optional)

Directions

this recipe

1. Cook Rice: In a medium saucepan, bring chicken broth to a boil. Add wild rice, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 45–60 minutes until tender. Drain excess liquid if needed.
2. Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter with olive oil. Sauté carrots, celery, onion, and mushrooms until softened (about 8–10 minutes).
3. Preheat Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.
4. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, shredded chicken, sautéed vegetables, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, garlic powder, thyme, salt, pepper, and cheese. Mix well.
5. Bake: Pour mixture into prepared casserole dish. Sprinkle extra cheese on top if desired. Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
6. Rest and Serve: Let stand for 5–10 minutes before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes (rice + bake time)
• Total Time: About 1 hour 30 minutes

Variations

• Add Broccoli: Stir in 1–2 cups steamed broccoli florets for extra greens.
• Use Rotisserie Chicken: Great time saver if you’re in a hurry.
• Make it Spicy: Add cayenne pepper or diced green chiles for heat.
• Cheese Options: Try mozzarella, Swiss, or pepper jack for different flavor profiles.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze before or after baking for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F or in the microwave until hot.

FAQs

Can I use a wild rice blend?

Yes, but check cooking times—some blends cook faster than pure wild rice.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free cream of chicken soup or make a homemade version.

Can I cook the rice in the casserole without pre-cooking?

No, wild rice takes too long to cook in the oven alone and could stay underdone.

Is there a dairy-free option?

Substitute with dairy-free sour cream and use a dairy-free condensed soup alternative.

What sides go well with this casserole?

A simple green salad, steamed green beans, or roasted vegetables are great complements.

Can I add nuts?

Yes, toasted almonds or pecans on top add great texture.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Swap chicken for white beans or chickpeas, and use veggie broth and cream of mushroom soup.

How do I avoid a dry casserole?

Ensure rice is not overcooked initially and don’t overbake. Cover if needed during baking.

Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, thaw and drain well before using to avoid excess moisture.

Can I double this recipe?

Absolutely—use two 9×13-inch pans or a large deep baking dish.

Conclusion

This Chicken and Wild Rice Casserole is a classic comfort dish that’s creamy, filling, and endlessly versatile. Whether you’re prepping for the week ahead or serving up dinner for friends and family, this crowd-pleaser delivers big flavor with minimal fuss. It’s a dish you’ll turn to again and again.

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