Southern Living Chicken Wild Rice Casserole Recipe
There’s something uniquely comforting about a Southern casserole. With its creamy texture, hearty ingredients, and warm, baked goodness, the Chicken Wild Rice Casserole from Southern Living has become a staple for Southern food lovers and home cooks alike.
Equipment
- Large skillet
- Baking dish (9x13 inch)
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Oven
Ingredients
For the Casserole:
- 3 cups cooked wild rice
- 3 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great)
- 1 small onion diced
- 2 celery stalks diced
- 1 can 10.5 oz cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can 10.5 oz cream of celery soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup slivered almonds optional, for crunch
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Topping:
- ½ cup crushed buttery crackers like Ritz
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Rice and Chicken
- If your wild rice isn’t already cooked, prepare it by following the package instructions. Make sure it’s soft but not mushy since it will cook more in the casserole. While the rice is cooking, shred your cooked chicken into small pieces. Getting these ready now will make putting the dish together easier.
Step 2: Cook the Vegetables
- Melt a little butter in a big pan over medium heat. Add chopped onions, celery, and mushrooms. Cook them until they’re soft and the onions look clear. This makes the flavors stronger and ensures the vegetables won’t make the casserole watery.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
- In a pot, mix cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, and sour cream. Heat the mixture gently over low-medium heat, stirring until it’s smooth and creamy. This sauce is what makes the casserole rich and delicious.
Step 4: Mix Everything Together
- In a large bowl, mix the cooked rice, shredded chicken, cooked vegetables, and the creamy sauce. Stir well so all the ingredients are evenly coated. This step makes sure every bite tastes great.
Step 5: Prepare the Casserole Dish
- Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish lightly. Pour the mixture into the dish and spread it out evenly. This helps the casserole cook evenly.
Step 6: Add a Crunchy Topping
- Mix crushed buttery crackers with melted butter in a small bowl. Sprinkle this mixture over the top of the casserole. It adds a crispy, golden layer that goes perfectly with the creamy filling.
Step 7: Bake the Casserole
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Put the casserole in the oven and bake for 30 to 40 minutes. It’s ready when the edges are bubbling and the top is golden brown.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
- Take the casserole out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This makes it easier to serve. Dish it up while it’s warm and enjoy this tasty Chicken Wild Rice Casserole with your family and friends!
Notes
For the best results, ensure the rice is fully cooked and the casserole is evenly mixed before baking. Adjust seasoning to taste, and feel free to incorporate additional vegetables or seasonings to suit your preferences. Remember to allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes after baking to enhance flavor and texture.