Chicken Wild Rice Casserole is a cozy, comforting dish that mixes tender chunks of chicken with nutty wild rice, creamy sauce, and a little crunch on top. It’s the kind of casserole that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for chilly evenings or when you want something hearty and satisfying.
I love making this casserole because it’s such an easy way to get a filling meal on the table with minimal fuss. The wild rice adds a nice chewy texture that balances the soft chicken and smooth sauce. Plus, you can mix in your favorite veggies to make it even more colorful and tasty. When it bakes, the top gets slightly crispy, which I think makes every bite extra special.
My favorite way to serve this casserole is right out of the oven, paired with a simple green salad or steamed veggies. It’s one of those all-in-one dinners where you don’t have to worry about much else. Every time I make it, there’s always some left over for the next day, which is a happy bonus because it tastes great warmed up too.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Wild Rice Blend: Wild rice adds a nutty flavor and chewy texture that makes this casserole unique. If you can’t find it, try brown rice or a mix of brown and white rice for a similar effect.
Chicken: Diced cooked chicken is the star protein here. Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut, but leftover grilled or baked chicken works just as well.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: This creates the creamy base. For a lighter option, use cream of chicken soup or make a simple white sauce with milk and flour.
Sour Cream: Adds tang and richness. Greek yogurt is a good substitute if you want something lower in fat.
Ritz Crackers or Breadcrumbs: They give the casserole a crunchy, golden top. If you want gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers instead.
How Do I Get the Topping Crispy Without Burning?
Getting a golden, crunchy topping without burning can be tricky. Follow these tips for the best results:
- Mix melted butter evenly with your crackers or breadcrumbs before sprinkling.
- Spread the topping in an even layer so it browns uniformly.
- Bake uncovered, but watch the last 5 minutes closely. If it’s browning too fast, cover loosely with foil.
- Let the casserole rest a few minutes after baking; the topping will firm up nicely.
With patience and a little attention, you’ll get that perfect balance of crunchy and golden on top every time.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13 inch casserole dish – perfect size for even cooking and easy serving.
- Medium saucepan – to cook the wild rice blend evenly without spills.
- Large skillet – for sautéing onions, garlic, and mushrooms to bring out their flavor.
- Mixing bowl – to combine all ingredients smoothly before baking.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to keep ingredient amounts accurate for best results.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – great for stirring without scratching your pans.
- Aluminum foil (optional) – helps protect the topping if it browns too fast in the oven.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use smoked turkey instead of chicken for a richer, slightly smoky taste that’s great after holidays.
- Add shredded Swiss or Gruyère cheese for a nuttier, creamier melt.
- Mix in chopped spinach or kale with the mushrooms for extra color and nutrients.
- Stir in dried thyme or sage for a woodsy note that pairs nicely with the wild rice.
How to Make Chicken Wild Rice Casserole?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup wild rice blend, uncooked
- 2 ½ cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup milk
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish needs about 1 hour and 20 minutes total. It takes roughly 45 to 50 minutes to cook the wild rice, around 15 minutes to prep and mix everything, plus 25 to 30 minutes baking time. A little extra cool-down time after baking makes it easier to serve.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Wild Rice:
Start by bringing the chicken broth to a boil in a medium saucepan. Add the wild rice blend, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 45-50 minutes, until the rice is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed. Drain any leftover liquid.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
While the rice cooks, heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 4 minutes until it’s see-through. Stir in the garlic and mushrooms and cook for another 5 or 6 minutes. Cook until the mushrooms shrink and all the moisture dries up.
3. Mix the Casserole Filling:
In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cooked wild rice, sautéed veggies, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, milk, and shredded cheddar cheese. Add the chopped parsley, and sprinkle in salt and pepper to your liking. Stir everything until it’s well mixed.
4. Assemble and Bake:
Pour the mixture into the greased casserole dish and spread it out evenly. Melt the butter and mix it with the crushed crackers or breadcrumbs. Sprinkle this buttery topping over the casserole. Bake uncovered at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes, until the top is golden and the casserole is bubbly.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Take the casserole out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes so it sets nicely. Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving for a bright, fresh touch. Enjoy your comforting, creamy Chicken Wild Rice Casserole!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Casserole?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw the chicken completely before dicing and adding it to the casserole. Thaw frozen chicken overnight in the fridge or use the defrost setting on your microwave for quicker thawing.
Can I Substitute Cream of Mushroom Soup?
Absolutely! You can use cream of chicken soup or make a homemade white sauce with butter, flour, and milk if you prefer a fresher, less processed option.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven to keep the casserole creamy and delicious.
Is It OK to Use Brown Rice Instead of Wild Rice?
Yes, brown rice works as a substitute, but it has a softer texture and milder flavor. Adjust the cooking time as needed since brown rice may cook faster than wild rice.
