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Chicken Wild Rice Casserole

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This healthy chicken wild rice casserole is a comforting family dinner bake loaded with juicy chicken, wild rice, and plenty of veggies. It’s easy to prep ahead, crowd-pleasing, and secretly nutritious—perfect for busy weeknights or potlucks.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken breast or thighs (about 300g)
  • 1 cup uncooked wild rice blend (about 180g)
  • 2 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth (600ml)
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
  • 2 large celery stalks, sliced
  • 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced
  • 1 cup button mushrooms, sliced (optional, about 80g)
  • 1/2 cup frozen peas (about 70g)
  • 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (120g)
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) low-fat cream of mushroom soup (about 300g)
  • 1 cup shredded cheese, divided (cheddar or Monterey Jack, about 100g)
  • 1/4 cup sliced almonds (about 25g, optional)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter (15ml)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with olive oil or nonstick spray.
  2. In a medium saucepan, combine wild rice blend and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 40-45 minutes until rice is tender but still chewy. Drain excess liquid.
  3. While rice cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, celery, and mushrooms (if using). Sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened and golden. Add garlic and cook 1 more minute.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, stir together Greek yogurt, cream of mushroom soup, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  5. Add cooked wild rice, sautéed veggies, shredded chicken, frozen peas, and 3/4 cup shredded cheese to the bowl. Stir well to coat everything in the sauce. If mixture is thick, add a splash of broth or milk.
  6. Transfer mixture to prepared casserole dish and spread evenly. Sprinkle remaining 1/4 cup cheese and sliced almonds on top.
  7. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden. For extra crunch, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end, watching closely.
  8. Let casserole rest 10 minutes before serving to help it set.

Notes

For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and check your broth. To make dairy-free, use coconut yogurt and vegan cheese. You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience. Add extra veggies like spinach, kale, or bell peppers for more nutrition. Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken wild rice casserole, healthy family dinner, casserole recipe, easy chicken bake, wild rice bake, meal prep, gluten-free casserole, comfort food

Find it online: https://bitefuljoy.com/chicken-wild-rice-casserole-recipe-best-healthy-family-dinner-bake/