Chicken Wild Rice Casserole: A Comforting and Healthy Dinner Favorite 🥘🌾✨
1. Introduction
If you’re searching for wild rice dishes recipes that are both satisfying and easy to prepare, then the Chicken Wild Rice Casserole is the perfect choice. This dish combines tender chunks of chicken with hearty wild rice, vegetables, and a creamy sauce, making it a comforting healthy dinner option ideal for supper ideas for big families or a cozy night in. Its simplicity and rich flavors make it a favorite among dinner over rice or meal with rice dinners, and it suits anyone looking for easy low prep dinner ideas. Whether you’re feeding a large crowd or making a delicious dinner for your loved ones, this casserole is a versatile and wholesome addition to your recipe collection.
2. Ingredients Needed for Chicken Wild Rice Casserole
- 1 ½ cups wild rice, uncooked
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (check out more chicken recipes)
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup celery, chopped
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup (or a healthier homemade alternative)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
3. Step-by-Step Instructions to Prepare Chicken Wild Rice Casserole
Preparation of Wild Rice
Start by cooking the wild rice according to package instructions, typically simmering in chicken broth for added flavor. Once cooked, drain any excess liquid and set aside.
Sauté Vegetables and Chicken
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion, celery, carrots, and sliced mushrooms. Sauté until tender, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute. Add cooked chicken to the skillet and mix well.
Assemble the Casserole
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked wild rice, sautéed vegetables and chicken, cream of mushroom soup, and shredded cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
Bake the Dish
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake an additional 10 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
4. Tips for Perfecting Your Chicken Wild Rice Casserole
- For added flavor, consider using homemade meatloaf gravy or cream sauces.
- Use cooked leftover chicken to save time, making this an easy low prep dinner.
- To make the dish healthier, replace the creamy soup with a homemade béchamel or Greek yogurt-based sauce.
- This dish also works well with different wild rice blends or brown rice for extra fiber.
5. Storage and Reheating Tips
Leftover get well food meals like this casserole can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. To reheat, simply microwave in controlled intervals or rewarm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until thoroughly heated. For longer storage, you can freeze individual portions for up to 3 months.
6. Serving Suggestions for Chicken Wild Rice Casserole
This dinner over rice pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables. For a complete meal, add a side of cheesy hashbrown casserole or pancake sausage casserole. Its hearty nature makes it perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or special gatherings where you want to serve healthier supper ideas that everyone will enjoy.
7. Variations and Dietary Adjustments
- For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken with more vegetables or plant-based protein alternatives.
- Use gluten-free soup or thickening agents to make this a gluten-free dish.
- Experiment with different cheeses such as Monterey Jack or Parmesan for varied flavors.
8. FAQs about Chicken Wild Rice Casserole
Q1: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance and keep it refrigerated overnight. Just bake it as directed when ready to serve.
Q2: Is wild rice healthy?
Wild rice is a nutritious whole grain that is high in protein, fiber, and antioxidants, making it an excellent choice for a healthier supper idea.
Q3: Can I freeze leftovers of chicken wild rice casserole?
Absolutely! Store cooled leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving for a quick and satisfying meal.
9. Conclusion
The Chicken Wild Rice Casserole offers an inviting combination of hearty ingredients and delicious flavors, making it one of the recipes that use chicken and wild rice dishes recipes that standout as a comforting healthy dinner. Its simple preparation, versatile ingredients, and satisfying nature make it an excellent choice for supper ideas for big families? and anyone craving an easy low prep dinner. Whether for a busy weeknight or a special weekend meal, this dish is sure to become a favorite. For more inspiration, explore additional [chicken recipes](https://recipeswonders.com/category/chicken/) or check out our [dinner ideas](https://recipeswonders.com/category/dinner/) to diversify your weekly menu.
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Chicken Wild Rice Casserole
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Comfort Food
Description
A comforting and healthy dinner favorite, the Chicken Wild Rice Casserole combines tender chicken, hearty wild rice, vegetables, and a creamy sauce for a satisfying meal perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in. Easy to prepare and customizable, this dish is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a wholesome and delicious casserole recipe.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups wild rice, uncooked
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup celery, chopped
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Start by cooking the wild rice according to package instructions in chicken broth; drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion, celery, carrots, and mushrooms; sauté until tender, about 5-7 minutes. Add garlic and cook for another minute. Stir in cooked chicken and mix well.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked wild rice, sautéed vegetables and chicken, cream of mushroom soup, and shredded cheese. Season with salt and pepper, and mix thoroughly.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
Notes
- Use leftover cooked chicken to save time and make this dish more convenient.
- For a healthier option, replace the canned soup with a homemade béchamel or Greek yogurt-based sauce.
- Try different wild rice blends or substitute brown rice for added fiber.
- Enhance flavors with homemade gravy or additional herbs.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking, Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 350 Kcal
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
