Why Make This Recipe
Chicken Wild Rice Casserole is a comforting dish that brings warmth to any dining table. It combines tender chicken, nutty wild rice, and hearty vegetables, all baked together in a creamy sauce. This casserole is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it a perfect option for busy weeknight dinners or family gatherings. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover bread and chicken!
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Chicken Wild Rice Casserole
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large baking dish, combine onion, carrots, celery, wild rice, and chicken broth. Cover tightly with foil and bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes.
- While the rice cooks, melt 4 tablespoons of butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add flour, salt, and poultry seasoning, cooking for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth and creamy.
- Optional: Melt the remaining 6 tablespoons of butter and toss with cubed bread to make the topping. Skip this step for a simpler casserole.
- Remove the baked rice mixture from the oven. Add raw chicken pieces and the creamy sauce, stirring to combine evenly.
- Top evenly with buttered bread cubes. Increase oven temperature to 450°F (230°C) and bake uncovered for 20–30 minutes until the chicken is cooked and topping is golden brown.
- Remove from oven and garnish with parsley, salt, and pepper before serving hot.
Nutrition
Notes
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Let us know how it was!How to Make Chicken Wild Rice Casserole
Ingredients
- 1 onion, chopped
- 5 carrots, chopped
- 5 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 cup wild rice
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 lb chicken breasts, cut into small pieces
- 10 tbsp butter, divided
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp poultry seasoning
- 4 tbsp flour
- 2 cups milk
- 3-4 cups cubed bread (sturdy, dry, or day-old bread works best)
Step-By-Step Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F. In a large baking dish, combine the chopped onion, carrots, celery, wild rice, and chicken broth. Cover tightly with foil and bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes.
- Prepare the sauce: While the rice is cooking, melt 4 tablespoons of butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the flour, salt, and poultry seasoning. Cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in the milk to form a smooth, creamy sauce.
- Optional topping: Melt the remaining 6 tablespoons of butter. Toss with the cubed bread. (If you prefer a casserole without the topping, you can skip this step.)
- Assemble the casserole: Once the rice is cooked, remove the foil. Add the raw chicken pieces and the creamy sauce to the dish. Stir everything together to combine. Arrange the buttered bread cubes evenly on top.
- Bake: Increase the oven temperature to 450°F. Bake uncovered for an additional 20-30 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked (no longer pink) and the bread cubes are golden brown.
- Serve: Once baked, garnish with salt, pepper, or parsley for a fresh pop of flavor and color. Enjoy!
How to Serve Chicken Wild Rice Casserole
This casserole can be served as a complete meal on its own, but it pairs well with a simple salad or steamed vegetables for added freshness. Consider serving it alongside a light soup for a more hearty dining experience.
How to Store Chicken Wild Rice Casserole
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and warm it in the oven until heated through.
Tips to Make Chicken Wild Rice Casserole
- Use day-old bread for the topping to give a better texture.
- For added depth of flavor, try adding herbs like thyme or rosemary.
- If you want more veggies, feel free to add peas or green beans to the casserole.
Variation
You can switch the chicken for turkey or cooked beef for a different taste. Adding cheese to the creamy sauce can also make the casserole richer and creamier.
FAQs
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance. Just assemble everything without baking and store it in the fridge. Bake it when you’re ready to serve.
Can I use brown rice instead of wild rice?
Yes, brown rice is a great substitute. However, the cooking time may change, so check your rice package for the best results.
Is this casserole gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free bread and a gluten-free flour blend for the sauce.