Chicken and Wild Rice Casserole

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If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting dish that’s easy to make and packed with flavor, look no further than this Chicken and Wild Rice Casserole.

This dish is a perfect blend of tender chicken, earthy wild rice, and creamy goodness, all topped with a delightful crunch.

It’s also great because it’s hearty enough to serve as a whole meal, so you can skip the sides and dig right in.

Let’s dive into why this recipe should be at the top of your cooking list!

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

This Chicken and Wild Rice Casserole is not just another one-dish meal.

It’s a celebration of flavors and textures! The combination of wild rice and tender chicken drenched in a creamy sauce is comforting and satisfying.

Plus, it’s the kind of dish that fills your home with an incredible aroma as it bakes.

Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner, a gathering, or just need leftovers for the week, this casserole is sure to be a hit!

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups (285 g) wild rice blend
• 3 cups (720 ml) chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons (30 ml) olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 8 ounces (225 g) white mushrooms, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ tablespoon Italian seasoning
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
• ¼ cup (30 g) all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups (360 ml) milk
• 1 cup (250 g) sour cream
• 1 ½ cups (170 g) shredded cheddar cheese
• 3 cups (375 g) cooked shredded chicken
• 6 ounces (170 g) French-fried onions, canned or homemade

How To Make Chicken and Wild Rice Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Rice

Start by rinsing your wild rice blend under cold water.

This helps to remove any excess starch and ensures a fluffier texture when cooked.

Once rinsed, add the rice to a medium saucepan along with the chicken broth.

Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer for about 40-45 minutes or until the rice is tender.

Once cooked, set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

While your rice is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Add the diced onion and sauté them for about 5 minutes until they start to soften.

Then, add the sliced mushrooms and continue to cook for another 5-6 minutes until they are golden brown and fully cooked.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Seasonings

Next, add the minced garlic to the skillet along with the Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.

Sauté for an additional minute until the garlic is fragrant.

This quick step enhances the flavor profile of the dish.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the sautéed vegetables and stir well to combine.

Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps.

Let the mixture simmer for a few minutes until it thickens up slightly.

Once it reaches your desired thickness, remove it from the heat.

Step 5: Combine All Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked wild rice, creamy vegetable mixture, sour cream, shredded chicken, and 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese.

Mix everything together until it’s well combined and evenly coated.

Step 6: Assemble the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.

Spread it out evenly, and then top it with the remaining shredded cheddar cheese and the French-fried onions for that extra crunch.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Place your casserole in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes or until the top is bubbling and golden brown.

Your kitchen will smell amazing, and you’ll have a beautiful casserole ready to serve!

Expert Tips

• Feel free to use leftover rotisserie chicken to save time.
• You can substitute other types of cheese, like mozzarella or Monterey Jack, for a different flavor.
• If you want to add some veggies, consider throwing in some spinach or broccoli.
• For a healthier twist, you can use low-fat sour cream or Greek yogurt.

Variations and Customizations

• Add some green peas or corn for a pop of color and sweetness.
• Try using a different protein, such as turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Mix in some hot sauce or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick!
• Substitute the wild rice blend with quinoa or brown rice for a different grain option.

How to Store Leftovers

Leftover Chicken and Wild Rice Casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

To reheat, simply place it in the microwave or in the oven until warmed through.

If you want to freeze it, pack it into a freezer-safe container, and it will last for up to 3 months.

Just remember to let it thaw in the fridge before reheating.

FAQ

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up until the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours.

When you’re ready to bake, just pop it in the oven; you may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

What can I serve with this casserole?

This casserole is quite filling on its own, but if you want to serve it with something, a simple side salad or steamed vegetables would complement it perfectly.

Is this casserole suitable for kids?

Yes! This dish is family-friendly, and the creamy texture along with the cheesy top is usually a winner with kids.

You can even sneak in some veggies without them noticing!

Can I make this without chicken?

Yes, you can certainly make a vegetarian version of this casserole by omitting the chicken and adding more vegetables or using a meat substitute.

It will still be delicious and filling!

Conclusion

This Chicken and Wild Rice Casserole is not only delicious but also quite versatile.

It’s a fantastic dish to whip up for family dinners or meal prep for the week ahead.

With a hearty blend of chicken, wild rice, and creamy goodness, topped with that satisfying crunch, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household.

So grab your ingredients and let’s get cooking! Your taste buds will thank you.

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