Chicken Wild Rice Casserole: Comfort in Every Spoonful

🕒 Prep Time: 20 min
🕒 Cook Time: 1 hr 45 min
🕒 Total Time: 2 hr 5 min
🍽️ Servings: 8

📝 Ingredients:

• 1 onion, chopped
• 5 carrots, chopped
• 5 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 cup wild rice
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1 lb chicken breasts, cut into small pieces
• 10 tbsp butter, divided
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp poultry seasoning
• 4 tbsp flour
• 2 cups milk
• 3–4 cups cubed bread (sturdy, dry, or day-old works best)

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Set your oven to 350°F. In a large baking dish, combine onion, carrots, celery, wild rice, and chicken broth.
   👉 Cover tightly with foil and bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes.
2. Make the Cream Sauce:
   While the rice bakes, melt 4 tbsp butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in flour, salt, and poultry seasoning.
   🥄 Cook for 1 minute, then slowly whisk in 2 cups of milk to create a smooth, creamy sauce.
3. Optional Topping:
   Melt the remaining 6 tbsp butter and toss with cubed bread for a golden, buttery topping.
   (Skip this step for a lighter version.)
4. Assemble the Casserole:
   Once the rice is cooked, remove foil. Add raw chicken pieces and creamy sauce. Mix to combine.
   Sprinkle buttered bread cubes evenly on top.
5. Final Bake:
   Increase oven temp to 450°F and bake uncovered for 20–30 minutes, until chicken is cooked through and bread cubes are golden brown.
6. Serve & Garnish:
   Add a sprinkle of parsley or cracked pepper for a fresh finish! 🌿✨

💡 Pro Tips:

• Meal Prep Win: Assemble ahead and refrigerate overnight before final bake.
• Make It Creamier: Use half-and-half or add shredded cheese to the sauce.
• Storage: Keeps well in the fridge for 3–4 days. Reheat in oven or microwave.

📊 Nutrition Info (Per Serving):

Disclaimer:
Nutrition facts are estimated using online tools and may vary based on your ingredients and preparation. Please consult a nutritionist for precise dietary advice.