Chicken Wild Rice Casserole is a warm and hearty dish for family dinners. It’s a great combination of tender chicken, wholesome wild rice, and a creamy sauce, all baked together in one dish. It’s simple to make, filling and works well for weeknight meals or gatherings. The best part is that it can be prepped ahead of time, making it a great option when you’re short on time but still want something satisfying for dinner.
| Servings | Total |
| 8 | 50mins |
History of Chicken Wild Rice Casserole
Wild rice has been a staple in Native American diets for centuries, especially in the Midwest region of the United States. Combining it with chicken and baking it in a casserole became popular in the 20th century as casseroles gained popularity for their convenience and ease. Over time, this comforting dish has become a family favorite in many households, particularly during colder months when something hearty is needed.
Why Chicken Wild Rice Casserole
Chicken Wild Rice Casserole is an excellent choice when you’re looking for a meal that’s both nourishing and flavorful. The texture of wild rice adds something different from typical white rice, and its slightly nutty flavor pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce and tender chicken. It’s filling, wholesome, and can be made ahead, which is always a plus for busy schedules.
What is Chicken Wild Rice Casserole Made of?
This casserole typically includes:
- Cooked chicken (shredded or diced)
- Wild rice (cooked)
- Cream of chicken soup or a homemade sauce
- Vegetables like celery, onions, and mushrooms
- Chicken broth or water
- Seasonings like thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper
- Cheese (optional, for added creaminess)
What to Have with Chicken Wild Rice Casserole
Chicken Wild Rice Casserole pairs well with:
- A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette
- Roasted vegetables like broccoli or Brussels sprouts
- A side of crusty bread for dipping in the creamy sauce
- Fruit salad or apple slices for a lighter, refreshing side
Is Chicken Wild Rice Casserole Healthy?
Chicken Wild Rice Casserole can be a healthy meal, especially if you make a few simple adjustments. Wild rice is higher in fiber and nutrients than white rice, and you can lighten up the dish by using a homemade cream sauce with low-fat milk instead of cream of chicken soup. Adding plenty of vegetables also boosts the nutritional content. Overall, this dish provides a good balance of protein, carbs, and fiber, especially with wild rice as the base.
Kitchen Equipment
You’ll need the following equipment:
- A large skillet for sautéing vegetables
- A medium pot for cooking wild rice
- A large mixing bowl
- A casserole dish (9×13 inch)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- A spoon or spatula for mixing
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced)
- 2 cups cooked wild rice
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup chopped celery
- 1/2 cup chopped onions
- 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Directions:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F).
- Cook the Wild Rice: In a medium pot, cook the wild rice according to the package instructions. Set aside when done.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet, sauté the celery, onions, and mushrooms over medium heat until soft, about 5 minutes. Add garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper, and stir well.
- Mix the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, wild rice, sautéed vegetables, cream of chicken soup, and chicken broth. Stir everything together until well mixed.
- Assemble the Casserole: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish. If using cheese, sprinkle it on top.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Cool and Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the filling to set.
Tips
- Make it Ahead: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the fridge until ready to bake. This makes it a convenient meal for busy days.
- Add More Veggies: Feel free to add extra vegetables like carrots or peas to boost the nutrition.
- Cheese Option: If you love extra creaminess, add 1/2 cup of shredded cheese to the mixture or on top before baking.
Conclusion
Easy Chicken Wild Rice Casserole is a comforting, satisfying dish perfect for weeknights or family gatherings. The blend of tender chicken, nutritious wild rice, and flavorful vegetables makes it a hearty and balanced meal. Whether you’re making it ahead of time or serving it fresh out of the oven, this casserole is sure to become a regular in your meal rotation.
MORE RECIPES
Easy Chicken Wild Rice Casserole
Equipment
- A large skillet for sautéing vegetables
- A medium pot for cooking wild rice
- A large mixing bowl
- A casserole dish (9×13 inch)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- A spoon or spatula for mixing
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced)
- 2 cups cooked wild rice
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup chopped celery
- 1/2 cup chopped onions
- 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F).
- In a medium pot, cook the wild rice according to the package instructions. Set aside when done.
- In a large skillet, sauté the celery, onions, and mushrooms over medium heat until soft, about 5 minutes. Add garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper, and stir well.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, wild rice, sautéed vegetables, cream of chicken soup, and chicken broth. Stir everything together until well mixed.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch casserole dish. If using cheese, sprinkle it on top.
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the filling to set.