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Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Casserole – Easy Garlic Herb Bake

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This creamy chicken and wild rice casserole features tender chicken, earthy wild rice, and a golden garlic herb topping for the ultimate comfort food. It’s easy to prepare, packed with protein and veggies, and perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups cooked wild rice blend (about 10 oz)
  • 2 cups cooked chicken breast or thighs, shredded or chopped
  • 1 cup diced celery
  • 1 cup diced carrots
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 cup whole milk or half-and-half (dairy-free works too)
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 tsp dried thyme
  • 1/2 tsp dried rosemary
  • 1/2 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 3/4 cup panko bread crumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced (for topping)
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (or 1 tbsp dried)
  • 1 tbsp chopped fresh chives (optional)
  • 1/2 tsp dried basil

Instructions

  1. Cook the wild rice if needed: Add 1 cup wild rice blend and 2 1/2 cups water to a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 40-45 minutes until tender. Fluff and set aside.
  2. Preheat oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked wild rice, chicken, celery, carrots, peas, onion, and garlic. Season with thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Stir until evenly mixed.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together chicken broth, milk, and softened cream cheese until mostly smooth. Pour over the rice and chicken mixture. Fold gently until well combined.
  5. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
  6. In a small bowl, combine panko, parmesan, melted butter, minced garlic, parsley, chives, and basil. Mix until evenly coated.
  7. Sprinkle the garlic herb topping evenly over the casserole. Press down lightly.
  8. Bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes, until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling. If the topping browns too quickly, tent with foil during the last 10 minutes.
  9. Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

Use rotisserie chicken for convenience and flavor. Substitute brown rice or cauliflower rice for wild rice if desired. For gluten-free, use gluten-free panko or crushed rice crackers. Dairy-free options work well with plant-based milk and cream cheese. Let casserole rest before serving for best texture. Add extra broth or milk if mixture looks dry before baking.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken casserole, wild rice, creamy bake, garlic herb, comfort food, easy dinner, family meal, meal prep, gluten-free option

Find it online: https://blairrecipes.com/creamy-chicken-and-wild-rice-casserole-recipe-easy-garlic-herb-bake/