Creamy Chicken Wild Rice Casserole Recipe
Introduction
Chicken Wild Rice Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish perfect for family dinners or gatherings. This creamy casserole combines tender chicken, nutty wild rice, and vegetables, all baked together with cheese for a deliciously satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1 cup wild rice, cooked
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup
- 1 ½ cups mixed vegetables (such as peas, carrots, and corn)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cooked wild rice, cream soup, and mixed vegetables. Mix until well blended.
- Step 3: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
- Step 4: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Step 5: Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly and the cheese is melted and lightly golden.
- Step 6: Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Tips & Variations
- Use low-sodium cream soup for a healthier option and add herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra flavor.
- Substitute frozen vegetables with fresh for a crunchier texture.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or onions for added depth.
- Top with crushed crackers or breadcrumbs mixed with butter for a crunchy topping.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave or cover the casserole with foil and heat in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of wild rice?
Yes, brown rice can be used but it may change the texture and cook time slightly. Make sure to fully cook the brown rice before combining it with other ingredients.
Is this casserole freezer-friendly?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Cover it tightly with foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed.
PrintCreamy Chicken Wild Rice Casserole Recipe
This comforting Chicken Wild Rice Casserole is a hearty and delicious dish featuring tender chicken, nutty wild rice, creamy soup, fresh vegetables, and melted cheese baked to perfection. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or meal prep, this casserole combines simple ingredients into a savory and satisfying one-dish meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Protein and Grains
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1 cup wild rice, uncooked
- 2 cups water or chicken broth (for cooking rice)
Vegetables
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as carrots, peas, and green beans), fresh or frozen
Other Ingredients
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the wild rice: Rinse 1 cup of wild rice under cold water, then combine with 2 cups of water or chicken broth in a pot. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 45-50 minutes until the rice is tender and water is absorbed. Drain any excess liquid.
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Mix the casserole ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cooked wild rice, mixed vegetables, cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, milk, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Season with salt and black pepper to taste, stirring well to evenly distribute all ingredients.
- Assemble in baking dish: Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch casserole dish. Spread evenly.
- Add cheese topping: Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole mixture.
- Bake the casserole: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until the casserole is hot, bubbly, and the cheese on top is melted and lightly golden.
- Serve and enjoy: Remove from oven, let cool slightly, then serve warm as a comforting main dish.
Notes
- Use cooked chicken leftover from a roast or rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Wild rice adds a chewy texture and nutty flavor but can be substituted with brown rice if desired.
- Feel free to swap cream of mushroom and cream of chicken soups with condensed cream of celery or cream of broccoli soups for variety.
- Adding breadcrumbs on top before baking can create an extra crispy crust.
- This casserole reheats well and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Keywords: Chicken Wild Rice Casserole, comfort food, baked casserole, easy dinner, creamy chicken casserole, hearty meal
