Best 2 Favorite Chicken And Wild Rice Casserole Recipes

Chicken and Wild Rice Casserole is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, fluffy wild rice, creamy soup, and a crispy topping. It's a perfect meal for busy weeknights or special occasions. This recipe features three variations: a classic version, a creamy mushroom version, and a cheesy broccoli version. Each variation offers a unique flavor profile, ensuring that there's something for everyone to enjoy. The classic version is a timeless dish with a savory combination of chicken, wild rice, and a creamy sauce. The creamy mushroom version adds a rich and earthy flavor with the addition of sautéed mushrooms. And the cheesy broccoli version combines the goodness of chicken and wild rice with a cheesy broccoli topping for a comforting and hearty dish. No matter which variation you choose, you're sure to enjoy this delicious and satisfying casserole.

Check out the recipes below so you can choose the best recipe for yourself!

FAVORITE CHICKEN AND WILD RICE CASSEROLE

Favorite Chicken and Wild Rice Casserole image

I found this in Southern Living several years ago and make it often, especially when bringing a meal to someone. It freezes well which is good since the recipe is much more than my family can eat. I usually make it either in 2 2qt baking dishes or 3 9x9 pans for freezing and add a little extra cheese on top. Light sour cream, lowfat milk and Healthy Request soup work well for a lower fat version.

Provided by LonghornMama

Categories Chicken

Time 1h5m

Yield 10 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 12

Ingredients

2 (6 1/4 ounce) packages quick-cooking long grain and wild rice mix
1/4 cup butter
2 medium onions, chopped
4 stalks celery, chopped
2 (8 ounce) cans sliced water chestnuts, drained
5 cups chopped cooked chicken
1 lb shredded cheddar cheese, divided (4 cups)
2 (10 3/4 ounce) cans cream of mushroom soup, undiluted
16 ounces sour cream
1 cup milk
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper

Steps:

Prepare rice according to package directions; set aside.
Saute onion, celery and water chestnuts in butter until tender.
In a very large bowl, combine rice, onion mixture, 3 cups cheese, chicken, soup, sour cream, milk, salt and pepper.
Pour into a lightly greased 15x10 inch baking dish or 4 qt casserole.
Bake at 350 for 30 minutes.
Sprinkle with remaining 1 cup cheese and bake 5 minutes.

LESLIE'S FAVORITE CHICKEN-AND-WILD RICE CASSEROLE

Leslie's Favorite Chicken-And-Wild Rice Casserole image

This is similiar to others, but this one incorporates almonds for some added crunch! You can make and freeze the casserole ahead, or make two small casseroles.

Provided by Peggy V.

Categories Poultry

Time 1h5m

Yield 1 casserole, 10-12 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 14

Ingredients

2 (6 1/4 ounce) packages fast-cooking long grain and wild rice blend
1/4 cup butter
4 celery ribs, finely chopped
2 medium vidalia onions, finely chopped
2 (8 ounce) cans sliced water chestnuts, drained
5 cups chopped cooked chicken
4 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
2 (10 1/4 ounce) cans 98% fat-free cream of mushroom soup, undiluted
1 (16 ounce) container light sour cream
1 cup skim milk
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1/2 cup soft breadcrumbs
1 (2 1/4 ounce) package sliced almonds, toasted

Steps:

Prepare rice mixes according to package directions. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat; add celery and onion. Saute 10 minutes or until tender. Stir in water chestnuts, rice, chicken, 3 cups cheese, and next 5 ingredients.
Spoon mixture into a lightly greased 15x10 baking dish or a 4 quart baking dish. Top casserole with breadcumbs. Bake at 350 degrees for 35 minutes. Sprinkle with remaining 1 cup cheese and almonds; bake 5 more minutes.
You can divide this casserole evenly between 2 11x7 baking dishes. Bake as directed above or freeze casserole up to 1 month. Remove form freezer, and let stand at room temperature 1 hour. Bake, covered, at 350 degrees for 30 minutes. Uncover casserole, and bake 55 more minutes. Sprinkle with remaining 1 cup cheese adn almonds, and bake 5 more minutes.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 488.8, Fat 32.5, SaturatedFat 17, Cholesterol 128.5, Sodium 561.4, Carbohydrate 15.9, Fiber 2.5, Sugar 3.1, Protein 33.6

Tips:

Use high-quality ingredients: Fresh, flavorful ingredients will make a big difference in the taste of your casserole. Look for organic, free-range chicken and wild rice, and use fresh vegetables and herbs whenever possible.
Don't overcook the chicken: Chicken can quickly become dry and tough if it's overcooked. Cook it until it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit, then remove it from the heat and let it rest before shredding it.
Use a flavorful broth: The broth you use in your casserole will add a lot of flavor, so choose one that you enjoy. Chicken broth, vegetable broth, or a combination of the two are all good options.
Don't be afraid to experiment with different ingredients: There are many different ways to make chicken and wild rice casserole, so feel free to experiment with different ingredients and flavors. Add some chopped celery or carrots, or stir in a handful of dried cranberries or nuts. You can also use different types of cheese, such as cheddar, Gruyère, or Parmesan.
Make sure the casserole is cooked through: Before you serve the casserole, make sure it's cooked through by inserting a toothpick into the center. If the toothpick comes out clean, the casserole is done.

Conclusion:

Chicken and wild rice casserole is a classic comfort food that's perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion. It's easy to make, and it's always a hit with family and friends. With its creamy, flavorful sauce, tender chicken, and fluffy wild rice, this casserole is sure to become a favorite in your home.