Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThere’s something undeniably soothing about the warm aroma of a casserole bubbling away in the oven, and today’s delightful creation is the Ultimate Chicken Wild Rice Casserole. As I pulled together this comforting dish, I could almost hear my family’s cheerful chatter filling the kitchen, eager for the first bite. Boasting juicy chicken, earthy mushrooms, and nutty wild rice enveloped in a creamy, homemade sauce, this casserole is an effortless crowd-pleaser that elevates family dinners without relying on any canned soups. The best part? It’s a nutritious option packed with wholesome ingredients and offers the chance to customize with your favorite seasonal veggies. Ready to discover how to bring this cozy dish to life? Let’s dive in! Why is this casserole a family favorite? Comforting flavors unite in this dish, making it an instant favorite at your dining table. Versatile enough to accommodate seasonal veggies, this casserole invites creativity; summer brings zucchini, while winter asks for hearty kale. Time-saving prep makes it easy to pull together, and leftovers are perfect for quick lunches! Plus, nutritious and delicious, it ensures your family enjoys wholesome meals without compromise. Don’t forget to check out our Fiery Chicken Ramen for another cozy dinner idea! Chicken Wild Rice Casserole Ingredients • Let’s gather everything you need! For the Casserole Wild Rice Blend – This nutty grain is the perfect base; feel free to swap it out for brown rice or quinoa for a different flavor twist. Chicken Breasts/Thighs – A lean protein source that keeps the casserole hearty; for a vegetarian version, consider using tofu. Salt, Pepper, Paprika – Essential seasonings that elevate the flavors; adjust according to your spice tolerance! Olive Oil – Great for sautéing, but you can use avocado oil if you prefer. Unsalted Butter – Adds richness to the sauce; swap with vegan butter for a dairy-free alternative. Yellow Onion – This aromatic base provides depth; substitute with green onions for a milder flavor. Celery and Carrots – The mirepoix that gives the dish its classic flavor; leeks or bell peppers also work beautifully. Garlic – A flavor powerhouse; garlic powder is a handy alternative if you’re out of fresh garlic. Baby Bella/Creamini Mushrooms – Earthy and umami-rich, these mushrooms are iconic in this dish; white button mushrooms are a suitable substitute. For the Sauce Low Sodium Chicken Broth – Forms the liquid base of your sauce; vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian option. Cornstarch – This thickening agent will give your sauce the perfect consistency; arrowroot or tapioca starch are great substitutes. Flour – Integral to the roux in the sauce; use a gluten-free flour blend if needed. Milk – Provides creaminess; almond or coconut milk are fantastic dairy-free alternatives. Chicken Bouillon – Enhances broth flavors; vegetable bouillon can be a simple swap for vegetarian preparation. Dijon Mustard and Worcestershire Sauce – Both add complexity to the flavor profile; for a lighter seasoning, you can omit these or switch with soy sauce. Dried Herbs (Parsley, Basil, Thyme) – These enhance the dish’s flavor; fresh herbs will offer a garden-fresh taste. Sharp Cheddar and Parmesan – Essential for that creamy, cheesy goodness; nutritional yeast is an excellent dairy-free substitute. For the Topping Panko Breadcrumbs – Toasted for the perfect crunch on top; you can use regular breadcrumbs if that’s what you have on hand. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chicken Wild Rice Casserole Step 1: Preheat the Oven Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, grab your 9×13-inch baking dish and spray it generously with cooking spray. This will ensure that your Chicken Wild Rice Casserole doesn’t stick and bakes evenly, ready for that golden topping! Step 2: Prepare and Sear the Chicken Pat the chicken breasts or thighs dry with paper towels, then season them with salt, pepper, and paprika. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and sear the chicken for 5-7 minutes until it’s golden brown but not fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate to cool. Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables In the same skillet, add diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are tender and fragrant. Next, add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until the garlic is aromatic. Transfer the sautéed vegetables to the bowl with the chicken to keep them warm. Step 4: Cook the Mushrooms Add a bit more olive oil to the skillet and toss in the sliced baby bella mushrooms. Sauté the mushrooms for 5-8 minutes until they’re golden brown and have released some of their moisture. Once done, add them to the chicken and vegetable mixture, stirring to combine all the ingredients. Step 5: Make the Sauce In a small bowl, whisk together the low sodium chicken broth and cornstarch until smooth. In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter with a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Sprinkle in the flour, whisking constantly for about 1-2 minutes to create a roux. Slowly add the broth mixture and milk, whisking continuously until the sauce thickens and comes to a simmer. Step 6: Combine with Cheese Stir in the sharp cheddar and Parmesan cheese into the thickened sauce until melted and creamy. Now combine this cheesy sauce with the chicken, sautéed vegetables, and cooked wild rice, mixing everything thoroughly until well coated with that luscious sauce. Step 7: Assemble the Casserole Transfer the hearty Chicken Wild Rice Casserole mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Top with any remaining cheese for an extra cheesy layer. To create a crunchy topping, mix panko breadcrumbs with a bit of melted butter and sprinkle this mixture generously over the casserole. Step 8: Bake to Perfection Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is hot, bubbly, and the top is golden and crisp. Keep an eye on it as it bakes, and enjoy the wonderful aroma filling your kitchen. Chicken Wild Rice Casserole Variations Embrace the joy of customization with this delicious casserole that invites your creativity and personal taste! Summer Twist: Bright and fresh, add zucchini and juicy cherry tomatoes for a seasonal burst. Autumn Flavors: Incorporate butternut squash and Brussels sprouts to bring cozy fall vibes to your dish. Winter Greens: For a hearty touch, mix in some kale or spinach, perfect for chilly nights. Spring Surprise: Add tender asparagus and sweet peas for a light, refreshing seasonal update. Spice it Up: Boost heat with red pepper flakes or try a mild cheddar for a gentler flavor. Individual Servings: Serve your casserole in ramekins for a personal touch that caters to family preferences. Cheesy Variation: Experiment with different cheese blends like gouda or feta for a unique flavor profile. Nut-Free Option: Substitute almond or coconut milk with regular milk or oat milk to cater to nut allergies. You might also enjoy pairing your casserole with a fresh green salad or exploring other comforting options like Smothered Chicken Rice for your next family dinner! How to Store and Freeze Chicken Wild Rice Casserole Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave for best texture while retaining the casserole’s creamy consistency. Freezer: Freeze individual portions in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing to maintain quality. Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, approximately 20-25 minutes for a whole casserole. Make-Ahead: Prepare the Chicken Wild Rice Casserole in advance and refrigerate it unbaked. When you’re ready, bake from the fridge, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time for an easy family meal. Expert Tips for Chicken Wild Rice Casserole • Mushroom Technique: Cook mushrooms in a single layer to allow for optimal caramelization—this prevents a soggy texture and enhances their flavor. • Make Ahead: Prepare the casserole a day ahead to boost flavor development; simply refrigerate and bake when you’re ready for a comforting meal. • Leftover Storage: Store remaining casserole in airtight containers for up to 3-4 days to maintain its creamy texture—perfect for quick lunches! • Creamy Sauce: If your sauce isn’t thickening as desired, gradually whisk in an additional cornstarch slurry to achieve that rich consistency characteristic of a Chicken Wild Rice Casserole. • Variability Matters: Don’t be afraid to customize! Seasonal veggies add freshness—experiment with your favorites to make it uniquely yours. What to Serve with Chicken Wild Rice Casserole Elevate your dinner experience by adding deliciously complementary sides to this cozy casserole that warms both the heart and home. Crispy Green Salad: A fresh salad with crisp greens and a tangy vinaigrette helps to balance the rich flavors of the casserole. Roasted Seasonal Veggies: Whimsical caramelized root vegetables or green beans add a delightful sweetness and texture contrast to the creamy casserole. Buttered Corn on the Cob: Juicy, sweet corn brings an inviting summer vibe to the meal and complements the earthy tones of the dish beautifully. Garlic Breadsticks: Crunchy and buttery, these breadsticks are perfect for scooping up any extra sauce and make every bite feel special. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: For the ultimate comfort plate, fluffy potatoes provide a lusciousness that pairs perfectly with the savory casserole. Sautéed Spinach: Lightly sautéed spinach drizzled with lemon complements the casserole’s richness while adding a vibrant pop of color. Chilled White Wine: A glass of crisp Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc cuts through the richness, enhancing the overall dining experience beautifully. Chocolate Pudding: End your meal on a sweet note with creamy chocolate pudding that satisfies cravings without overpowering the savory dishes. Make Ahead Options These Chicken Wild Rice Casserole is perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the entire casserole up to 24 hours in advance; simply assemble it, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. For even better flavor development, consider cooking the wild rice and sautéing the vegetables a day ahead. On the day of serving, just pop it in the oven while you relax. Be sure to keep it tightly covered to maintain the casserole’s moisture and avoid drying out. When you’re ready to enjoy, remove the cover for the last few minutes of baking to achieve that golden, crispy topping! Chicken Wild Rice Casserole Recipe FAQs What are the best mushrooms to use for this casserole? For the most flavor-packed experience, I recommend using baby bella or cremini mushrooms as they add a delightful earthy umami flavor. However, if you prefer a milder taste, white button mushrooms are a great alternative! How do I store leftovers from my Chicken Wild Rice Casserole? Absolutely! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This ensures you maintain that creamy texture while keeping it fresh and delicious for your next meal. Can I freeze the Chicken Wild Rice Casserole? Yes, you can freeze it! To do this, let the casserole cool completely, then portion it into airtight containers or freezer bags. It will stay good for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, and then reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through. What should I do if my sauce isn’t thickening? Don’t worry; this happens sometimes! If your sauce isn’t reaching that desired thickness, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a couple of tablespoons of water to create a slurry. Gradually whisk this into your sauce while it simmers until it thickens to your liking. Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of with this recipe? Definitely! If you’re preparing this for someone with dietary restrictions, consider using vegetarian options like tofu instead of chicken and vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Also, swap out the butter and milk for vegan alternatives to make it suitable for a dairy-free diet. Cozy Chicken Wild Rice Casserole for Family Comfort This Chicken Wild Rice Casserole combines juicy chicken, earthy mushrooms, and nutty wild rice in a creamy sauce, making it a family favorite. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 20 minutes minsCook Time 35 minutes minsTotal Time 55 minutes mins Servings: 6 servingsCourse: CasseroleCuisine: AmericanCalories: 450 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Casserole1 cup Wild Rice Blend can be substituted with brown rice or quinoa2 pounds Chicken Breasts/Thighs can use tofu for vegetarian version1 teaspoon Salt1 teaspoon Pepper1 teaspoon Paprika adjust for spice tolerance2 tablespoons Olive Oil can substitute with avocado oil4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter or use vegan butter for dairy-free1 medium Yellow Onion substitute with green onions for milder flavor2 stalks Celery2 medium Carrots2 cloves Garlic or use garlic powder8 ounces Baby Bella/Creamini Mushrooms white button mushrooms are suitable substituteFor the Sauce4 cups Low Sodium Chicken Broth or vegetable broth for vegetarian option2 tablespoons Cornstarch or arrowroot/tapioca starch1/4 cup Flour gluten-free flour blend as alternative1 cup Milk almond or coconut milk for dairy-free1 cube Chicken Bouillon substitute with vegetable bouillon1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard1 tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce can switch with soy sauce2 teaspoons Dried Herbs (Parsley, Basil, Thyme) fresh herbs can be used for better taste1 cup Sharp Cheddar nutritional yeast for dairy-free1/2 cup ParmesanFor the Topping1 cup Panko Breadcrumbs regular breadcrumbs are an alternative Equipment 9x13 inch baking dishLarge skilletMixing Bowl Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.Pat the chicken dry, season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sear chicken for 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.Sauté diced onion, carrots, and celery in the same skillet for 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.Sauté sliced baby bella mushrooms in more olive oil for 5-8 minutes until golden brown. Combine with chicken and vegetables.In a small bowl, whisk chicken broth and cornstarch. Melt butter and add flour in the skillet to create a roux. Slowly add broth mixture and milk until the sauce thickens.Stir in sharp cheddar and Parmesan until melted. Combine this sauce with chicken, vegetables, and cooked wild rice.Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, top with remaining cheese, and mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter to sprinkle on top.Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes until hot and bubbly with a golden top. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 5gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 600IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 2mg NotesMushrooms can be cooked in a single layer for better caramelization. Prepare in advance for enhanced flavors. Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3-4 days. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
