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Chicken Wild Rice Casserole

Chicken Wild Rice Casserole – A Cozy, Healthy Dinner Idea


  • Author: Lyndy
  • Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Description

This Chicken Wild Rice Casserole is a comforting, hearty, and healthy dinner idea made with shredded chicken, nutty wild rice, and fresh vegetables. Perfect for family meals, holiday gatherings, or meal prep, it’s creamy without being heavy, packed with wholesome ingredients, and adaptable for dairy-free or gluten-free diets. A true one-pan classic that’s both nutritious and satisfying.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup uncooked wild rice blend (not instant)
  • 3 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or dairy-free butter
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 2 medium carrots, chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried sage
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 1/2 pounds cooked chicken, shredded or diced
  • 1/3 cup all-purpose flour or gluten-free flour
  • 1 cup non-dairy milk or regular milk
  • Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cook the rice: In a saucepan, combine wild rice and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, cover, and simmer for 45–50 minutes until tender. Set aside.
  2. Sauté vegetables: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onion, celery, and carrots; cook 8–10 minutes until softened.
  3. Add garlic & spices: Stir in garlic, thyme, sage, salt, and pepper. Cook 1–2 minutes.
  4. Make sauce: Sprinkle flour over vegetables and stir. Slowly whisk in milk until smooth. Simmer 3–4 minutes until thickened.
  5. Combine: In a bowl, mix cooked rice, shredded chicken, and sauce until combined.
  6. Bake: Transfer to a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish. Cover with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes. Uncover and bake 10–15 minutes more until bubbling and golden.
  7. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Notes

  • Do not use instant wild rice—it will turn mushy.
  • Use rotisserie chicken for a quick shortcut.
  • Dairy-free option: replace milk with almond, soy, or oat milk.
  • Gluten-free option: use gluten-free flour.
  • Add-ins like mushrooms, spinach, or dried cranberries work beautifully.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice

Keywords: Chicken Wild Rice Casserole, Wild Rice Dinner Ideas, Healthy Casserole Recipe, Dairy Free Dinner Casserole, Supper Ideas for Big Families