Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Casserole

Introduction

This Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Casserole is the perfect comfort food for family dinners or potlucks. Packed with tender chicken, hearty wild rice, and a rich, creamy sauce, this dish is both satisfying and easy to prepare. With a blend of wholesome vegetables and crunchy toppings like almonds, it’s a crowd-pleasing classic that freezes beautifully for make-ahead meals.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
• 1 cup uncooked wild rice blend (or pre-cooked for convenience)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 cup chopped carrots
• 1/2 cup chopped celery
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

Creamy Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream (or whole milk)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika

Toppings:

• 1/4 cup sliced almonds (optional)
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

1. Cook the Rice and Vegetables:
   • Cook the wild rice according to package instructions and set aside.
   • In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the carrots, celery, mushrooms, and onion. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and cook for another minute.
2. Prepare the Creamy Sauce:
   • In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and heavy cream, ensuring no lumps.
   • Season with salt, pepper, thyme, and paprika. Simmer for 5 minutes, stirring until thickened.
3. Combine the Ingredients:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, wild rice, sautéed vegetables, and creamy sauce. Mix well until evenly coated.
4. Assemble the Casserole:
   • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle with sliced almonds for added crunch.
5. Bake:
   • Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until bubbly and golden.
6. Garnish and Serve:
   • Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy warm with a side salad or roasted vegetables.

Conclusion

This Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Casserole is a rich and satisfying dish that brings warmth to the dinner table. Its velvety sauce, hearty wild rice, and tender chicken create a balanced, flavorful meal. Perfect for meal prep, it freezes and reheats beautifully, making it a reliable option for busy weeks. Serve with crusty bread or a light salad for a complete, comforting experience!

For more details, visit the full recipe

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