Cooking has become my favorite way to unwind, and this Chicken Wild Rice Casserole Recipe is officially on my top comfort food list. I made it last weekend, and trust me, it was one of the easiest yet most flavorful dishes I’ve tried in a while.
The combination of tender chicken, earthy wild rice, and creamy sauce topped with golden parmesan cheese was an absolute hit at the dinner table. The recipe has such a warm, hearty vibe that it feels like a big comforting hug in a dish! If you’re looking for a recipe that’s as comforting as it is versatile, I promise this casserole will win you over in a heartbeat.
Simple, Uncomplicated Dinner Idea
Preparing this casserole is a breeze. It’s made with everyday ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. No need for fancy tools or special trips to the store—just wholesome, easy-to-find staples. You’ll have dinner on the table with minimal effort, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Full of Customization Options
Whether you like extra creaminess, spice, or veggies, this recipe allows you to tweak it to your preferences seamlessly. Toss in your favorite add-ins, swap out ingredients, or adjust seasonings to suit your taste. It’s a foolproof way to make this dish truly your own!
Hearty and Wholesome
The wild rice adds a chewy texture, while the chicken and creamy sauce make it filling and indulgent. It’s a balanced meal that provides comfort without being overly heavy. Plus, the combination of protein, fiber, and rich flavors keeps you satisfied for hours.
Great for Meal Prep
This casserole is perfect for leftovers or freezing. Make it once and enjoy delicious meals throughout the week! Simply reheat and serve for a stress-free lunch or dinner. It’s an excellent option for those who love planning ahead and saving time.
Crowd-Pleaser
It’s a surefire hit with both adults and kids. Bring it to a potluck or enjoy it at home; either way, it’s a winner. The comforting flavors and creamy texture make it an instant favorite. Whether it’s a family dinner or a special gathering, this dish always gets rave reviews!
Cooking Time
Here’s how much time you’ll need to whip up this comforting dish.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious casserole dish:
- Cooked chicken
- Wild rice (or a 5-grain medley)
- Cream of chicken soup
- Celery
- Onion
- Sour cream
- Chicken stock
- Garlic
- Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper
Variations
This casserole is incredibly versatile, and here are some clever swaps or additions you can make to suit your taste or dietary needs.
- Make it Dairy-Free: Substitute the sour cream with a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream or a plant-based sour cream. Use dairy-free Parmesan cheese for the topping.
- Boost the Veggies: Add some chopped mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for even more nutrition.
- Spice it Up: For those who enjoy heat, toss in some red chili flakes or diced jalapeños.
- Low-Sodium Option: Use a low-sodium chicken stock and cream of chicken soup to cut back on salt.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Fry pan: For sautéing the celery, onion, and garlic.
- Large mixing bowl: To combine all casserole ingredients.
- 9 x 11 baking dish: For baking the casserole to perfection.
- Oven: Set at 350°F to bake your dish.
How to Make Chicken Wild Rice Casserole?
This recipe is straightforward and perfect for cooks of any level. Here’s your step-by-step guide with some emoji fun to get you through!
Prepare the Aromatics 🌱
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Heat some oil in a fry pan and sauté the celery, diced onions, and minced garlic until they’re fragrant and slightly tender. Add a pinch of salt and pepper for seasoning.
Combine the Casserole Ingredients 🍗
Grab a large mixing bowl and combine the cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, chicken stock, and the sautéed aromatics. Mix everything until creamy and well-blended. Slowly stir in the cooked wild rice, one cup at a time, to ensure everything is evenly coated.
Assemble the Casserole 🥘
Lightly grease your 9 x 11 baking dish and pour the mixture in, smoothing out the top for an even layer. Finally, sprinkle shredded parmesan cheese over the top to create a golden crust during baking.
Bake Until Perfect 🍽
Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the top is beautifully golden brown. Once done, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool for about 5 minutes before serving.
Tips for Making the Recipe
- Use Cooked Ingredients: Make sure the chicken and rice are pre-cooked for the best results and quickest assembly.
- Season as You Go: Taste each layer for seasoning and adjust as needed to enhance flavor.
- Cheese Alternative: If you’re out of parmesan, try substituting it with mozzarella or cheddar for a gooey crust.
- Don’t Skip the Rest Time: After baking, allow the casserole to rest so it firms up and slices better.
How to Serve Chicken Wild Rice Casserole?
Presentation matters, even for a cozy casserole! Garnish it with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or thyme for a burst of color and freshness. Serve it straight from the dish family-style or plate it individually with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
Nutritional Information
Here’s an estimate of the nutritional breakdown for one serving of this delicious casserole.
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 19g
- Carbohydrates: 62g
- Fat: 9g
Make Ahead and Storage
One of the highlights of this recipe is how well it stores!
Make-Ahead Options
You can prepare the entire casserole ahead of time, cover it tightly with foil, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. This is a lifesaver for busy weeknights or prepping for guests.
Leftovers and Freezing
Leftovers? Lucky you! Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, portion out the casserole into individual servings, wrap them in plastic wrap, and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months! When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the microwave or oven.
With its rich flavors, hearty ingredients, and endless customizations, this Chicken Wild Rice Casserole is bound to become a staple in your recipe collection. It’s not just easy; it’s irresistibly delicious. Give it a try, and watch how it transforms dinner time into something special!
For a visual guide, watch the full recipe video here:
Chicken Wild Rice Casserole Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken shredded or diced
- 4 cups cooked five-grain medley rice or any wild rice of choice
- 1 can 10.5 oz condensed cream of chicken soup
- 2 celery stalks chopped
- ½ onion diced
- ½ cup sour cream
- ¾ cup chicken stock
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- ¼ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste suggested: ½ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. In a skillet, sauté the celery, onion, and garlic with salt and pepper until softened.
- In a large bowl, mix the cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and chicken stock. Stir in the sautéed vegetables, then gradually add the rice, ensuring it blends evenly.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×11-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle shredded Parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until golden brown. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Use Cooked Ingredients: Pre-cook chicken and rice for easy assembly.
- Season as You Go: Taste and adjust seasoning at each step.
- Cheese Alternative: Swap Parmesan with mozzarella or cheddar for extra melt.
- Rest Before Serving: Let the casserole sit after baking for better texture.
