Save Pin A comforting casserole featuring tender chicken, nutty wild rice, and a creamy sauce, baked to golden perfection. Perfect for a cozy family dinner.
I first served this to my family on a chilly evening and it quickly became a requested favorite for its warmth and comfort.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts: about 1.2 lbs/550 g cut into bite-size pieces
- 1 cup uncooked wild rice blend: 180 g
- 1 medium onion: finely chopped
- 2 celery stalks: diced
- 2 medium carrots: sliced
- 2 cloves garlic: minced
- 1 cup mushrooms: 150 g sliced
- 1 cup frozen peas: 150 g
- 1 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth: 360 ml
- 1 cup milk: 240 ml
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or sour cream: 120 ml
- 1 cup shredded Swiss or Gruyère cheese: 100 g
- 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
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs or gluten-free crumbs: 35 g
- 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 5 6 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 3 4 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 Pin This recipe always brings my family together around the dinner table creating warm memories and full bellies.
Required Tools
Large skillet 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish Mixing bowls Whisk Aluminum foil
Allergen Information
Contains Dairy Wheat if using regular breadcrumbs and possible gluten if broth or crumbs are not certified gluten-free Always verify ingredient labels for allergens if unsure
Nutritional Information
Per serving Calories 460 Total Fat 19 g Carbohydrates 42 g Protein 30 g
Save Pin Enjoy this wholesome dish perfect for weeknights and special family gatherings.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use different types of rice in this dish?
Wild rice blend provides a nutty texture and flavor, but you can substitute with long-grain rice or brown rice. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
- → How can I make the casserole gluten-free?
Use certified gluten-free chicken broth and replace breadcrumbs with gluten-free options like crushed nuts or gluten-free crumbs.
- → Is it possible to prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the dish up to a day before baking. Keep it covered and refrigerated, then bake as directed when ready.
- → What cheeses work best for the topping?
Swiss or Gruyère cheese are ideal for a creamy, melty finish, but you can use mozzarella or cheddar depending on your preference.
- → Can I add other vegetables to this bake?
Definitely! Vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach can be added for extra flavor and nutrition.
- → How do I get a crispy, golden topping?
Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the cheese layer. Baking uncovered for the last 20 minutes enhances the golden crispiness.