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Chicken Wild Rice Casserole

Comforting Chicken Wild Rice Casserole for Cozy Nights

A comforting Chicken Wild Rice Casserole that's quick, easy, and transforms simple ingredients into a heartwarming meal perfect for cozy nights.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Base
  • 1 cup Wild Rice Blend Adds a nutty flavor and chewy texture.
  • 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter Infuses richness into the sautéed vegetables.
  • 1 cup Celery Introduces a delightful crunch.
  • 1 medium Onion Finely diced for even cooking.
  • 8 ounces Portabella Mushrooms Substitute with button mushrooms if desired.
For the Sauce
  • ¼ cup All-Purpose Flour Works as a thickening agent.
  • 3 cups Chicken Stock Opt for low-sodium for better salt control.
  • 1 cup Whole Milk Can be swapped with dairy-free milk.
For the Protein
  • 2 cups Cooked Chicken Breasts Shredded or chopped.
For the Cheese
  • 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese Feel free to swap with your favorite cheese.
  • ½ cup Shredded Parmesan Cheese Adds a nutty, salty note.
For the Topping
  • 1 cup Panko Bread Crumbs Delivers a delightful crunch.
For Flavoring
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Pepper

Equipment

  • Saucepan
  • Skillet
  • mixing bowl
  • Casserole Dish

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a saucepan, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Add the wild rice blend, cover, and simmer for about 45 minutes. Drain excess water and set aside to cool.
  2. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  3. Melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add chopped celery and onion; cook for about 5 minutes until soft.
  4. Increase heat to medium and add sliced portabella mushrooms. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened.
  5. Sprinkle in ¼ cup of all-purpose flour and stir continuously. Gradually pour in 3 cups of chicken stock and 1 cup of whole milk, whisking until smooth. Cook for about 5 minutes until thickened.
  6. Remove skillet from heat. Stir in shredded chicken and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
  7. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked wild rice with the chicken-sauce mixture. Fold gently until fully incorporated and transfer to a greased casserole dish.
  8. In a small bowl, combine 1 cup of panko bread crumbs with ½ cup of shredded Parmesan cheese and drizzle with 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Mix well and spread over the casserole.
  9. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbly. Let cool slightly before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 4gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Ensure the wild rice is cooked yet slightly firm before combining. Customize with different cheeses or add veggies like broccoli or spinach for extra nutrition.

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