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Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Casserole

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A warm and comforting casserole featuring tender chicken, nutty wild rice, and a creamy, flavorful sauce. Perfect for family dinners or potluck gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
  • 1 wild rice blend, cooked according to package instructions
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 stalks celery, diced
  • 2 medium carrots, diced
  • 2–3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups chicken broth (low-sodium recommended)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly with butter or cooking spray.
  2. Cook the wild rice blend according to package instructions. Once cooked, set aside.
  3. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the diced onion, celery, and carrots. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened and fragrant.
  4. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
  5. Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir until coated. Cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
  6. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, ensuring no lumps form. Allow the mixture to simmer for 3-4 minutes until thickened.
  7. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Add salt, pepper, and thyme to taste. Continue stirring until the sauce is smooth and velvety.
  8. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, wild rice, and creamy vegetable sauce. Mix until everything is evenly coated.
  9. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
  10. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top, followed by the panko breadcrumbs for a crispy finish.
  11. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and golden brown on top.
  12. Let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

You can substitute white rice for wild rice, use rotisserie chicken for convenience, and adjust the seasoning to taste. Assemble ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze for later use.

Nutrition

Keywords: Creamy Chicken, Wild Rice, Casserole, Comfort Food, Easy Dinner, Family Meal

Find it online: https://wigglebite.com/creamy-chicken-and-wild-rice-casserole-recipe-youll-love/