Chicken and wild rice casserole is a hearty, comforting dish that's perfect for family gatherings and potlucks. This rich and flavorful casserole combines tender chicken, nutty wild rice, and a creamy sauce, making it a favorite among home cooks and food enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients
Before you start, gather these ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked wild rice
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Preparation Steps
Step 1: Cook the Wild Rice
Begin by cooking the wild rice according to the package instructions. Typically, this involves boiling the rice in water with a pinch of salt until it’s tender. Once cooked, set it aside to cool.
Tip: For extra flavor, cook the rice in chicken broth instead of water.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
If you don’t have pre-cooked chicken, you can bake or boil chicken breasts. Season them with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of thyme. Once cooked, allow them to cool before shredding them into bite-sized pieces.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms, and cook until the mushrooms are tender. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour to create a roux, cooking for about 1-2 minutes until it’s lightly golden. Slowly whisk in the milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Add the can of cream of chicken soup and the sour cream, stirring until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Season with dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
Assembly
Step 5: Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked wild rice, shredded chicken, sautéed vegetables, and frozen peas. Pour the creamy sauce over the mixture and stir well to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated.
Step 6: Layer the Casserole
Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a light coating of olive oil. Pour the rice and chicken mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese over the top. If you like a crunchy topping, sprinkle the breadcrumbs over the cheese.
Baking
Step 7: Bake the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Note: To check for doneness, ensure the casserole is heated through and the cheese is fully melted.
Serving
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color!
Conclusion
This chicken and wild rice casserole is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. It’s perfect for cozy family dinners or sharing with friends at gatherings. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your feedback and photos with us! We’d love to see how your casserole turns out.
Happy Cooking!
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