Description

This Wild Rice and Chicken Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish that combines tender shredded chicken, earthy wild rice, and a rich, creamy sauce, all baked to perfection. With the addition of sautéed vegetables, a blend of herbs, and melted cheddar cheese, this casserole is full of flavor and texture. It’s an ideal dish for a cozy family dinner or a potluck, offering warmth and satisfaction with every bite. Easy to prepare and perfect for making ahead, this casserole is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection

Ingredients

• 1 cup wild rice, rinsed
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 stalks celery, chopped
• 1 cup sliced mushrooms
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Preparation Method

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.

Cook the Wild Rice: In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed wild rice and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let the rice simmer for about 45 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. Remove from heat and set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables: While the rice is cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, celery, and sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Cook the vegetables, stirring occasionally, until they are tender and slightly caramelized, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.

Combine the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked wild rice, shredded chicken, sautéed vegetables, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well incorporated, ensuring that the rice and chicken are evenly coated with the creamy mixture.

Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the mixture to the greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Use a spatula to spread the mixture out evenly in the dish, pressing it down gently to create a smooth, even layer.

Bake the Casserole: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is lightly browned. The cheese should be melted and slightly golden on top.

Serve: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and makes it easier to serve. Enjoy your hearty homemade Wild Rice and Chicken Casserole, packed with flavor and perfect for a cozy meal!

Tips and Conclusion

Tip
For added texture and flavor, you can sprinkle some breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter over the top of the casserole before baking. This will create a crispy, golden crust. Additionally, if you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture before baking.

Conclusion
This Wild Rice and Chicken Casserole is a delicious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of tender chicken, nutty wild rice, and a creamy, cheesy sauce creates a comforting dish that’s full of flavor. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or bringing it to a potluck, this casserole is sure to be a hit. Enjoy the rich, hearty goodness of this homemade dish, and make it a regular feature on your dinner table!