why make this recipe
Chicken Wild Rice Casserole is a cozy and comforting dish perfect for family dinners or gatherings. It combines tender chicken, hearty wild rice, and a creamy sauce, all topped with crispy bread cubes. This casserole is not only filling but also offers a wonderful mix of textures and flavors. Plus, it’s easy to make and can be prepped in one dish, making cleanup a breeze.
how to make Chicken Wild Rice Casserole
Ingredients:
- 1 onion, chopped
- 5 carrots, chopped
- 5 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 cup wild rice
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 lb chicken breasts, cut into small pieces
- 10 tbsp butter, divided
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp poultry seasoning
- 4 tbsp flour
- 2 cups milk
- 3-4 cups cubed bread (sturdy, dry, or day-old bread works best)
Directions:
Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F. In a large baking dish, combine the chopped onion, carrots, celery, wild rice, and chicken broth. Cover tightly with foil and bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes.
Prepare the sauce: While the rice is cooking, melt 4 tablespoons of butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the flour, salt, and poultry seasoning. Cook for 1 minute. Then, gradually whisk in the milk to form a smooth, creamy sauce.
Optional topping: Melt the remaining 6 tablespoons of butter. Toss with the cubed bread. If you prefer a casserole without the topping, you can skip this step.
Assemble the casserole: Once the rice is cooked, remove the foil. Add the raw chicken pieces and the creamy sauce to the dish. Stir everything together to combine. Arrange the buttered bread cubes evenly on top.
Bake: Increase the oven temperature to 450°F. Bake uncovered for an additional 20-30 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked (no longer pink) and the bread cubes are golden brown.
Serve: Once baked, garnish with salt, pepper, or parsley for a fresh pop of flavor and color. Enjoy!
how to serve Chicken Wild Rice Casserole
Serve Chicken Wild Rice Casserole hot from the oven. It pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. You can also offer some extra butter or gravy on the side for those who like a little more richness.
how to store Chicken Wild Rice Casserole
To store any leftovers, let the casserole cool completely. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate. It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
tips to make Chicken Wild Rice Casserole
- For added flavor, consider sautéing the onion, carrots, and celery in a bit of butter before adding them to the casserole.
- Feel free to substitute cooked chicken for raw if you have leftovers. Just adjust the baking time as it will require less cooking time.
- Experiment with spices! Adding a pinch of garlic powder or pepper can enhance the flavor.
variation
You can easily modify this recipe by adding mushrooms or peas for extra nutrition and taste. For a lighter version, use low-fat milk or a milk substitute. You can also use quinoa instead of wild rice for a different texture.
FAQs
1. Can I make this casserole in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up until the baking step, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator for up to a day. Just make sure to let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking.
2. Can I freeze Chicken Wild Rice Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled casserole before baking. Cover it tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
3. What type of bread works best for the topping?
Sturdy, dry, or day-old bread works best for the topping. This type of bread will hold up better during baking and create a nice crispy texture.