Name: Chicken Wild Rice Casserole
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 3 to 4 cups Diced, cooked chicken; 1 box (6-ounce), cooked White and wild rice; 1 can (10.75-ounce) Cream of celery soup; 1 jar (4-ounce), drained Chopped pimentos; 1/2 cup Finely chopped onion; 1 cup Mayonnaise; 1 can (14.5-ounce), drained French-style green beans; 1 can (8-ounce), drained Sliced water chestnuts; 1/2 teaspoon Black pepper; to taste Salt

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When I think of comfort food, Chicken Wild Rice Casserole comes to mind immediately. This dish has a special place in my heart, reminding me of cozy family dinners during the fall. Every bite is a warm hug, filled with the rich flavors of tender chicken, savory rice, and the delightful crunch of green beans. I remember the first time I made it; I was trying to impress my friends with my cooking skills, and it turned out to be a hit! The aroma wafted through the house, drawing everyone in like a magnet. It’s simple enough for a weeknight meal but fancy enough to serve at a gathering. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover chicken and makes for a one-dish wonder that saves me from doing too many dishes afterwards.

Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a cozy get-together, this Chicken Wild Rice Casserole is bound to impress. The creamy texture and the mixture of flavors are simply irresistible. I often find myself craving it during the chilly months when nothing else feels as satisfying. It’s also a wonderful dish to share, as it warms up beautifully and tastes even better the next day. With its delightful combination of wild rice, cream of celery soup, and mayonnaise, this casserole is not just a meal; it’s a comforting experience that brings people together.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
50 mins

Prep Time:
20 mins

Cook Time:
30 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
350 kcal

Protein:
25 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free

Fat:
15 g

Tools Used:
Oven, Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet, Chef’s Knife, Cutting Board

What Sets This Chicken Wild Rice Casserole Apart

There are countless reasons to love Chicken Wild Rice Casserole, and I’d like to share a few of them with you.

Ultimate Comfort Food

This casserole is the epitome of comfort food. It’s creamy, rich, and warm, making it perfect for those chilly nights when you want something to cuddle up with. The combination of textures—from the tender chicken to the crunchy green beans—makes every bite a delightful experience.

Family-Friendly Recipe

Another reason I adore this dish is its family-friendly nature. Kids, in particular, enjoy the creamy taste, and it’s a great way to sneak in some vegetables. The flavor profile is mild yet delicious, appealing to even the pickiest of eaters.

Easy to Make

Don’t you love recipes that are simple yet yield fantastic results? This Chicken Wild Rice Casserole comes together quickly and requires minimal prep. Just toss everything together and let the oven do the work. It’s a lifesaver for busy weeknights!

Versatile Ingredients

The ingredients in this casserole are versatile. You can switch things up based on what you have available. For example, if you don’t have cream of celery soup, you can use cream of chicken or cream of mushroom instead. This flexibility allows you to tailor the dish to your preferences while still keeping the same comforting essence.

Perfect for Leftovers

Leftovers are a dream with this casserole. It reheats beautifully, and I often make a double batch just to ensure I have some for lunch the next day. The flavors deepen overnight, making it even tastier!

Great for Meal Prep

If you’re someone who loves to meal prep, this recipe is for you. It can be made ahead of time and frozen, making it an ideal option for those busy weeks. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to enjoy a delicious homemade meal.

What Goes Into Chicken Wild Rice Casserole

The ingredients for this Chicken Wild Rice Casserole are simple but come together to create a hearty dish. Each component plays a crucial role in achieving that comforting essence we all crave. Here’s a closer look at the key players:

Diced, cooked chicken: This is the star of our casserole, providing protein and a hearty texture.
White and wild rice: The combination gives a nutty flavor and a unique chewiness that pairs perfectly with the creamy elements.
Cream of celery soup: This adds creaminess and a subtle flavor that binds all the ingredients together.
Chopped pimentos: These add a pop of color and a hint of sweetness to the dish.
Finely chopped onion: A must-have for adding depth and savory notes.
Mayonnaise: This ingredient contributes to the creamy texture and richness.
French-style green beans: They add crunch and a fresh element to the casserole.
Sliced water chestnuts: These provide a delightful crunch and enhance the overall texture.
Black pepper: A simple seasoning that elevates the flavor.
Salt: Essential for enhancing all the flavors in the dish.

Making This Chicken Wild Rice Casserole

Creating your own Chicken Wild Rice Casserole is easy and rewarding. Let’s walk through the process together, ensuring every step is clear and straightforward.

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This is an essential step to ensure your casserole cooks evenly.
Lightly grease either a 7 by 11-inch or a 9 by 13-inch casserole dish. This will keep your casserole from sticking and make for easier cleanup.
In a large mixing bowl, combine all the ingredients: the diced, cooked chicken, white and wild rice, cream of celery soup, chopped pimentos, finely chopped onion, mayonnaise, French-style green beans, sliced water chestnuts, black pepper, and salt. Mix everything well until fully incorporated.
Once mixed, taste the mixture, and adjust the salt if necessary. This step is important to achieve the desired flavor.
Transfer the mixture to your prepared baking dish. Spread it evenly to ensure even cooking.
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes uncovered. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is golden brown and bubbly.
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool slightly. This resting time helps the casserole set up, making it easier to serve.
Cut into squares and serve warm. Enjoy each bite of this hearty dish, and don’t forget to savor the leftovers!

Things Worth Knowing

Prepping your chicken in advance makes this dish even quicker. Cooked chicken can be stored in your fridge for up to four days.
Rice can be prepared ahead and stored in an airtight container for a few days, making assembling the casserole a breeze.
If you’re using frozen green beans, ensure they’re thawed and drained before adding them to avoid excess moisture.
For a crispier top, consider sprinkling some breadcrumbs or fried onions on top of your casserole in the last few minutes of baking.

Expert Tips about Chicken Wild Rice Casserole

Here are some of my favorite tips to make your Chicken Wild Rice Casserole an absolute success.

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Freezing: You can freeze the assembled casserole before baking. Cover with aluminum foil and freeze for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
Pairing: This casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh garden salad or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Variations: Feel free to experiment! Adding mushrooms or bell peppers can elevate the flavor profile.
Serving Size: One serving is typically about one-sixth of the casserole, making it perfect for family dinners.
Leftover Ideas: Use leftovers in wraps or sandwiches for a new twist!

Serve This Chicken Wild Rice Casserole With

There are countless ways to enjoy your Chicken Wild Rice Casserole. Here are some ideas for serving it:

Garden Salad: A crisp garden salad with a zesty dressing complements the richness of the casserole perfectly.
Garlic Bread: Serve with buttery garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Seasonal Vegetables: Pair with steamed or roasted seasonal vegetables for a balanced meal.
Occasional Dinners: This casserole is ideal for family gatherings or holiday dinners, providing a hearty option.
Lunch Leftovers: Enjoy it the next day as a satisfying lunch; it tastes even better!
Storage Tips: Make sure to store any leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh.

FAQ

It’s best to use cooked chicken for the Chicken Wild Rice Casserole. Using uncooked chicken may result in uneven cooking and potentially undercooked meat. If you want to use uncooked chicken, cook it separately before mixing it with the other ingredients to ensure everything is safe and evenly cooked.

Absolutely! The Chicken Wild Rice Casserole can be prepared ahead of time. You can assemble it and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. If you plan to freeze it, cover it tightly with foil and freeze it before baking. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before baking the next day for the best results.

This casserole is versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with a fresh garden salad, steamed vegetables, or some crusty garlic bread. The creamy texture of the casserole complements the crispness of a salad beautifully.

Leftovers of the Chicken Wild Rice Casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. You can reheat it in the microwave or oven until heated through. It also freezes well; just make sure to store it in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to three months.

Conclusion

In summary, the Chicken Wild Rice Casserole is a delightful dish that brings comfort and warmth to any table. Its creamy consistency and rich flavors make it irresistible. I encourage you to try this recipe for your next family dinner or gathering; you won’t regret it. It’s not just a meal, but a heartwarming experience that will surely satisfy everyone’s cravings.