Save A comforting casserole featuring tender chicken, nutty wild rice, and a creamy sauce, baked to golden perfection. Perfect for a cozy family dinner.
This dish has become a family favorite because of its rich flavors and easy preparation.
Ingredients
- Poultry: 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1.2 lbs/550 g) cut into bite-size pieces
- Rice: 1 cup (180 g) uncooked wild rice blend
- Vegetables: 1 medium onion finely chopped 2 celery stalks diced 2 medium carrots sliced 2 cloves garlic minced 1 cup (150 g) mushrooms sliced 1 cup (150 g) frozen peas
- Dairy & Broth: 1 1/2 cups (360 ml) low-sodium chicken broth 1 cup (240 ml) milk 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream or sour cream 1 cup (100 g) shredded Swiss or Gruyère cheese
- Pantry & Spices: 2 tbsp olive oil 1 tsp dried thyme 1/2 tsp dried rosemary 1/2 tsp black pepper 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
- Topping: 1/2 cup (35 g) breadcrumbs or gluten-free crumbs 2 tbsp melted butter
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish.
- Step 2:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Sauté onion celery carrots and mushrooms for 56 minutes until softened. Add garlic cook 1 minute more.
- Step 3:
- Add chicken pieces to the skillet. Cook stirring until lightly browned but not cooked through about 34 minutes.
- Step 4:
- Stir in wild rice thyme rosemary salt and pepper. Remove from heat.
- Step 5:
- In a large bowl combine chicken broth milk and heavy cream or sour cream. Whisk to blend.
- Step 6:
- Add the sautéed chicken and vegetables mixture and frozen peas to the bowl. Stir well.
- Step 7:
- Pour everything into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the top.
- Step 8:
- In a small bowl mix breadcrumbs with melted butter. Sprinkle over cheese layer.
- Step 9:
- Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 50 minutes.
- Step 10:
- Remove foil and bake an additional 20 minutes or until the top is golden and the rice is tender.
- Step 11:
- Let stand 10 minutes before serving.
Save This recipe brings comfort and warmth to any family meal, often sparking fond memories.
Notes
For extra flavor add 1/2 cup sliced almonds to the topping. Substitute rotisserie chicken and reduce baking time by 15 minutes. A dash of smoked paprika adds depth. Pairs well with a crisp Riesling or Chardonnay.
Required Tools
Large skillet 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish Mixing bowls Whisk Aluminum foil
Nutritional Information
Calories 460 Total Fat 19 g Carbohydrates 42 g Protein 30 g
Save This chicken and wild rice bake is perfect for those seeking comfort food with wholesome ingredients.
Recipe Guide
- → Can I use a different type of poultry?
Yes, turkey breast or rotisserie chicken can be used as alternatives to boneless chicken breasts. Adjust baking time accordingly.
- → How do I ensure wild rice cooks evenly?
Rinse the wild rice before mixing. Baking covered with foil helps retain moisture, ensuring the rice cooks through without drying.
- → What can I substitute for heavy cream?
Sour cream or a blend of milk and cream cheese works well to maintain creaminess without overpowering the dish.
- → Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and certified gluten-free chicken broth to keep this casserole suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
- → How to achieve a golden crust topping?
Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter before sprinkling on top, then bake uncovered in the final phase to develop a crisp, golden finish.
- → What side dishes pair well with this bake?
A crisp green salad or steamed vegetables complement the heartiness, while a dry white wine enhances the meal.