Save A comforting, creamy baked casserole featuring tender chicken, hearty wild rice, and a medley of vegetables in a rich, savory sauce. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
This creamy chicken and wild rice casserole quickly became a favorite in my household for its rich flavor and ease of preparation.
Ingredients
- Cooked chicken breast: 2 cups diced (about 2 medium breasts)
- Wild rice blend: 1 cup uncooked
- Low-sodium chicken broth: 2 ½ cups
- Celery: 1 cup diced
- Carrots: 1 cup diced
- Yellow onion: 1 cup diced
- Mushrooms: 1 cup sliced
- Garlic: 2 cloves minced
- Frozen peas: 1 cup
- Sour cream: ¾ cup
- Whole milk: 1 cup
- Shredded cheddar cheese: 1 cup
- Unsalted butter: 2 tablespoons
- All-purpose flour: 2 tablespoons
- Dried thyme: 1 teaspoon
- Dried rosemary: ½ teaspoon
- Black pepper: ½ teaspoon
- Salt: 1 teaspoon
- Paprika: ½ teaspoon
- Cooking spray or additional butter: for greasing
Instructions
- Preheat oven:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) casserole dish with cooking spray or butter.
- Cook rice:
- Cook the wild rice blend according to package instructions, using chicken broth instead of water for extra flavor. Set aside.
- Sauté vegetables:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add onion, celery, carrots, and mushrooms. Sauté for 5 7 minutes, until softened.
- Add seasonings:
- Stir in garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook for 1 minute.
- Add flour:
- Sprinkle flour over the vegetables and stir to coat. Cook for 1 2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
- Add milk:
- Gradually add milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 2 3 minutes.
- Combine dairy mixture:
- Remove from heat. Stir in sour cream and half of the shredded cheddar cheese until smooth.
- Mix casserole:
- In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, chicken, sautéed vegetable mixture, and frozen peas. Mix well.
- Prepare casserole dish:
- Transfer mixture to the prepared casserole dish. Sprinkle remaining cheddar cheese over the top.
- Bake:
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 15 minutes, until bubbly and golden.
- Cool:
- Let cool for 10 minutes before serving.
Save This dish brings our family together every weekend, filling the house with warm comforting aromas and creating lasting memories.
Notes
Add chopped fresh parsley for color and flavor. Pairs well with a crisp green salad and a glass of Chardonnay.
Required Tools
Large skillet, medium saucepan (for rice), mixing bowls, 9x13-inch casserole dish, whisk, measuring cups and spoons, aluminum foil
Allergen Information
Contains: Milk (cheese, butter, sour cream, milk), Wheat (flour), and possibly Egg (if using pre-cooked chicken with additives). Always check labels for hidden allergens.
Save This creamy chicken casserole is the perfect comfort food to enjoy any day of the week.
Common recipe questions
- → What type of rice is used in this dish?
A wild rice blend is used for a nutty flavor and chewy texture that complements the creamy sauce and chicken.
- → Can the chicken be substituted with other proteins?
Yes, rotisserie chicken offers convenience, or turkey breast can be used for a similar taste and texture.
- → How is the creamy sauce thickened?
A mixture of butter, flour, and milk is cooked to create a smooth sauce base, then enriched with sour cream and cheddar cheese for creaminess.
- → What vegetables are included in the medley?
Celery, carrots, onions, mushrooms, garlic, and peas combine for flavor, texture, and balance.
- → Can this dish be prepared ahead of time?
Yes, it can be assembled in advance and baked before serving, making it ideal for potlucks or family gatherings.
- → Are there lighter alternatives to sour cream and cheese?
Greek yogurt and reduced-fat cheese can be used to reduce richness without sacrificing flavor.