Chicken and Wild Rice Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish that is perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings. This casserole combines tender chunks of chicken and nutty wild rice in a creamy sauce enriched with vegetables like carrots, celery, and onions. Often baked with a topping of breadcrumbs or almonds for added texture, this meal is both fulfilling and flavorful. It’s a wonderful way to make a complete dinner in one dish, offering both convenience and homemade warmth.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup wild rice
- 2 cups water
- 1 lb chicken breast, cooked and diced
- 1/2 cup carrots, diced
- 1/2 cup celery, diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup slivered almonds or breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
Instructions:
- Cook rice: Combine wild rice and water in a pot, bring to a boil, reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook until the rice is tender and fluffy.
- Prepare the oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C).
- Mix ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the cooked rice, chicken, carrots, celery, onion, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Combine liquids: Stir in chicken broth and cream.
- Bake: Transfer to a baking dish, top with almonds or breadcrumbs, and bake for 30 minutes or until the top is golden and crispy.
- Serve: Let it cool slightly before serving.
This Chicken and Wild Rice Casserole is a classic dish that combines simple ingredients into a comforting meal, perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers.
