If you’re craving a cozy, comforting dish that brings together hearty flavors and wholesome ingredients, this Chicken Wild Rice Casserole Recipe is here to steal your heart. With tender shredded chicken, nutty wild rice, earthy mushrooms, and a creamy mushroom soup base all baked to cheesy perfection, this casserole is the ultimate weeknight winner. It’s both satisfying and packed with soul-warming goodness, making it a go-to recipe that your family will thank you for again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Chicken Wild Rice Casserole Recipe keeps things beautifully simple, relying on ingredients that bring depth and texture to every bite. Each item plays a vital role in balancing earthiness, creaminess, and just the right hint of herbaceous freshness.
- 1 cup wild rice, uncooked: The star grain with a nutty flavor and chewy texture that makes this casserole distinctive and satisfying.
- 2 cups chicken broth: Adds moisture and rich, savory undertones to cook the wild rice perfectly.
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed: Provides tender protein that blends beautifully with the creamy base.
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced: Brings earthy richness that complements the rice and chicken flavors.
- 1 cup celery, chopped: Adds a subtle crunch and freshness to your vegetable mix.
- 1 cup onion, chopped: Infuses sweetness and depth when sautéed with other veggies.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: A punch of aromatic flavor that enhances every layer of this casserole.
- 1 teaspoon thyme: Earthy herb that ties all the ingredients together with a fragrant touch.
- 1 teaspoon rosemary: Adds a piney, woodsy flavor that elevates the dish’s complexity.
- 1 cup frozen peas: Pops of green and subtle sweetness that brighten the casserole.
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded: Melts into gooey, golden goodness that tops the dish perfectly.
- 1 cup cream of mushroom soup (canned or homemade): The creamy heart of the casserole binding everything tastily.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used to sauté veggies for that smooth, rich flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings for balancing the dish.
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped for garnish (optional): Adds color and a fresh herbal finish.
How to Make Chicken Wild Rice Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Cook the Wild Rice
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Then, bring your chicken broth to a gentle boil in a large saucepan. Add the wild rice, lower the heat, cover it up, and let it simmer for about 45 to 50 minutes. This slow cooking allows the rice to soak up all that flavorful broth and become tender, setting a solid foundation for your casserole.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
While the rice cooks, heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion, celery, and mushrooms and cook them until they’re soft and fragrant—about 5 to 7 minutes. Adding the minced garlic last ensures its flavor stays bright and aromatic without burning. This vegetable mix is crucial because it adds layers of texture and flavor that bring this casserole alive.
Step 3: Combine All Ingredients
Grab a large bowl and mix together the cooked wild rice, the sautéed veggies, shredded chicken, thyme, rosemary, frozen peas, and cream of mushroom soup. Stir in half of the cheddar cheese so your mixture has cheesy pockets throughout. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to bring your flavors into perfect harmony.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish and spread your mixture evenly inside it. Top it off with the remaining cheddar cheese to get that irresistible golden crust. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil to keep all the moisture locked in while baking.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake the casserole in your preheated oven covered for 25 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for another 15 to 20 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and beautifully browned. This final step gives you that satisfyingly crisp top layer that makes this Chicken Wild Rice Casserole Recipe so memorable.
Step 6: Garnish and Cool
Once out of the oven, let your casserole rest for a few minutes to set up. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top to add a splash of color and a bit of fresh herbaceous brightness right before serving.
How to Serve Chicken Wild Rice Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a classic way to decorate your Chicken Wild Rice Casserole Recipe, but you can also add a light dusting of paprika for color or a handful of toasted walnuts for an unexpected crunch. These thoughtful touches make serving feel extra special.
Side Dishes
Because this casserole packs such a rich and hearty punch, you might want to pair it with light, fresh sides like a crisp garden salad or steamed green beans. For colder days, a simple bowl of roasted root vegetables is the perfect cozy companion.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this casserole in individual ramekins or mini cast-iron skillets for personal portions. You can also transform leftovers into stuffed bell peppers by scooping it into hollowed-out veggies and popping them under the broiler for a minute or two.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying this Chicken Wild Rice Casserole Recipe, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay delicious for up to 3 days, allowing you to enjoy another comforting meal without the fuss.
Freezing
This casserole freezes wonderfully. Portion it out or freeze the entire dish wrapped tightly with plastic wrap and foil. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave until heated through, or pop the casserole dish back into a 350°F oven covered with foil for about 20 minutes. Remove the foil towards the end to refresh that golden cheese topping.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of wild rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice works well, though it has a different texture and milder flavor. Just adjust the cooking time since brown rice usually takes less time to cook than wild rice.
Is this casserole suitable for meal prep?
Yes, Chicken Wild Rice Casserole Recipe is excellent for meal prep. It keeps well in the fridge and freezes nicely, making it a perfect make-ahead meal for busy weeks.
Can I make this casserole dairy-free?
To make it dairy-free, swap out the cheddar cheese for a plant-based alternative and use a dairy-free cream of mushroom soup or homemade sauce. The casserole will still be creamy and flavorful.
What can I add to make this casserole more flavorful?
Feel free to add extras like cooked bacon, sautéed leeks, or a dash of smoked paprika for some smoky depth. Fresh herbs like tarragon or sage can also enhance the aroma and taste.
Can I substitute the chicken with another protein?
Definitely! Turkey works beautifully as a substitute, or you can go vegetarian with beans or tofu for a different texture while keeping the dish hearty.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Wild Rice Casserole Recipe is a forever-favorite that’s as delicious as it is comforting. With simple ingredients working together in perfect harmony, it’s easy to see why it ends up on repeat in many homes. So grab your casserole dish, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a meal that feels like a warm hug—your kitchen will thank you for it!
Print
Chicken Wild Rice Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 20m
- Cook Time: 1h 0m
- Total Time: 1h 20m
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This comforting Chicken Wild Rice Casserole combines tender wild rice, shredded chicken, sautéed vegetables, and melted cheddar cheese in a creamy mushroom sauce, baked to golden perfection. It’s a hearty and flavorful dish perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
Ingredients
Grains and Broth
- 1 cup wild rice, uncooked
- 2 cups chicken broth
Protein and Dairy
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded (divided)
- 1 cup cream of mushroom soup (canned or homemade)
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup celery, chopped
- 1 cup onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped for garnish (optional)
Herbs and Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 1 teaspoon rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
Oils
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the casserole later.
- Cook Wild Rice: In a large saucepan, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Add the wild rice, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 45-50 minutes until the rice is tender and most of the broth is absorbed.
- Sauté Vegetables: While the rice cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion, celery, and mushrooms, sautéing until tender, about 5-7 minutes. Add minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the cooked wild rice, sautéed vegetables, shredded chicken, thyme, rosemary, frozen peas, cream of mushroom soup, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir well to combine, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Assemble Casserole: Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch (23×33 cm) casserole dish, spreading it evenly.
- Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Cover and Bake: Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Cool and Garnish: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
- Wild rice cooking times may vary; check for tenderness before mixing.
- You can use homemade cream of mushroom soup for a fresher taste.
- Leftover casserole can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated thoroughly before serving.
- For a crispier top, broil the casserole for 2-3 minutes after baking.
- Substitute cheddar cheese with mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a different flavor.
