Creamy Chicken Wild Rice Casserole

Craving a comforting and hearty meal that will warm you up from the inside out? Look no further than this delightful recipe for Creamy Chicken Wild Rice. Picture tender chicken, nutty wild rice, and a velvety broth coming together to create a dish that’s perfect for chilly weather or when you need a big hug in a bowl.

This soul-warming soup has become a staple in my household, loved by all for its satisfying flavors and cozy vibes. Whether you’re rushing to get dinner on the table after work or letting it simmer away slowly on a lazy weekend, this Creamy Chicken Wild Rice dish is a sure crowd-pleaser. Packed with simple tricks and tips to enhance the flavors, this recipe is a go-to for creating a delicious and comforting meal with minimal effort.

So, gather your ingredients, prep that wild rice, and get ready to dive into a bowl of love and comfort with this Creamy Chicken Wild Rice recipe. Whether you enjoy it with a side of warm crusty bread or a crisp salad, this dish is sure to bring everyone together around the table for a heartwarming meal.

Quick Benefits

• Provides a comforting and filling meal without feeling heavy
• Can be easily customized for dietary preferences, such as making it vegetarian or dairy-free
• Perfect for meal prep and leftovers, with flavors improving over time
• Versatile dish that can accommodate various ingredients and cooking methods

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Chicken Wild Rice Casserole Recipe

• Soul-Warming Comfort: Perfect for chilly evenings, this creamy chicken wild rice soup is a hug in a mug that will warm you from the inside out.
• Hearty and Filling: Filled with tender chicken, nutty wild rice, and a velvety broth, this soup will leave you feeling satisfied without feeling heavy.
• Versatile and Easy: Whether you’re in a rush after work or have a lazy weekend to spare, this recipe can be tossed together quickly or left to simmer slowly for maximum flavor.
• Family Favorite: Loved by all, this dish is a go-to for families looking for a cozy, comforting meal that brings everyone together.
• Meal Prep Tips: Prep wild rice in advance, let cooked chicken rest before pulling it apart, and season throughout for maximum flavor in every bite.
• Make It Your Own: Easily customize the recipe by going meatless, swapping ingredients, or using different rice blends to suit your preferences.
• Leftover Friendly: Enjoy leftovers for days as the flavors continue to develop, simply add a bit of broth or cream when reheating for a fresh, silky texture.
• Quick and Easy Substitutions: Mix and match ingredients like using half-and-half with milk, swapping chicken for turkey, or incorporating different vegetables for variety.

Ingredients for Creamy Chicken Wild Rice Casserole

• 1/4 teaspoon dry sage.
• 1 yellow onion, diced up.
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper.
• 12 ounces canned evaporated milk.
• 2 teaspoons chicken base paste.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt.
• 2 cups pre-cooked wild rice.
• 1 clove garlic, finely chopped.
• 6 cups broth with low sodium (chicken).
• 1/3 cup plain flour.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil for cooking.
• 2 celery stalks, cut into small cubes.
• 1/4 teaspoon dry rosemary.
• 1/4 teaspoon dry thyme.
• 5 tablespoons regular butter.
• 2 diced carrots.
• 1 and a half pounds of chicken thighs or breasts.

Pro Tips for Creamy Chicken Wild Rice Casserole

To make this Creamy Chicken Wild Rice soup efficiently, consider prepping the wild rice earlier in the day to save time during meal prep. When cooking the chicken, allow it to rest for a few minutes before shredding it to retain its juiciness. To prevent the cream from splitting, remove the pan from the burner before pouring it into the soup. Sprinkling salt and pepper throughout the cooking process ensures each bite is seasoned perfectly.

For a twist on the recipe, try using a wild rice blend from brands like Harvest or Lundberg for added depth of flavor. If you prefer a lighter option, mix half-and-half with regular milk to replace evaporated milk without compromising the creaminess. For a vegetarian version, swap the chicken for mushrooms and kale, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Additionally, to enhance leftovers, add a bit more broth when reheating the soup to maintain the desired consistency.

How to Make Creamy Chicken Wild Rice Casserole

Step 1: Start Veggies

Heat olive oil in a pan, sauté onions, celery, and carrots for 3 minutes. Add garlic and cook briefly.

Step 2: Whisk Flour + Butter

Melt butter in a saucepan, then whisk in flour for about a minute until smooth and bubbling.

Step 3: Combine Liquids + Seasoning

Gradually pour in the broth while stirring, then add the chicken bouillon, pepper, salt, and dried herbs.

Step 4: Chicken Time

Add chicken to pot, bring to a boil, cover, and simmer on low for 10 minutes. Remove chicken from pot and chop into pieces.

Step 5: Wrap It Up

Combine evaporated milk and cooked wild rice, adjust seasoning to taste, then serve.

Storage Tips

After preparing and enjoying the Creamy Chicken Wild Rice soup, storing any leftovers is simple. The dish can be kept in the refrigerator for three to four days. As the rice absorbs liquid while resting, it’s recommended to add a little more broth when reheating the soup to maintain its consistency and flavors. Simply warm it gently on the stove, and for added creaminess, a splash of broth or a bit of cream can be stirred in to achieve the desired texture.

For longer-term storage, the Creamy Chicken Wild Rice soup can be frozen. To do this, it’s best to omit adding the cream to the soup before freezing. After thawing, the cream can be incorporated to restore the silky texture of the dish. By following these storage tips, you can ensure that this heartwarming soup retains its delicious taste and comforting qualities for future enjoyment.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a dairy-free option, you can substitute the evaporated milk with a plant-based milk like coconut milk or almond milk for a creamy texture. Just be aware that the flavor profile may vary slightly depending on the milk alternative you choose.

To make this dish vegetarian, omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can add extra vegetables like mushrooms, kale, or even bell peppers to enhance the flavors and textures in the soup.

If you prefer a gluten-free version of this recipe, you can swap the plain flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch as a thickening agent. Make sure to check the labels on the chicken base paste and other ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free as well.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this creamy Chicken Wild Rice soup in warm sourdough bread bowls for a cozy and comforting meal. The combination of creamy soup and crusty bread is a delightful way to enjoy this hearty dish. Pair it with a crisp salad dressed in a zingy vinaigrette to add a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the soup.

For a vegetarian twist, skip the chicken and add in mushrooms and kale instead. The earthy richness of the mushrooms and the hearty kale will still provide a satisfying and flavorful experience. This versatile soup is perfect for meal prep – make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week, just be sure to add a splash of broth or cream when reheating to keep it silky smooth.

FAQs for Creamy Chicken Wild Rice Casserole

Can I use a different type of rice for this recipe?

Yes, you can use any wild rice blend that you prefer. Brands like Harvest and Lundberg offer good options. For an extra flavor boost, consider cooking your rice in chicken broth.

Can I substitute evaporated milk with a different type of milk?

Absolutely! You can replace evaporated milk with a mixture of half-and-half and regular milk. This substitution will work just fine in the recipe.

How can I make a vegetarian version of this soup?

To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the chicken, swap chicken broth for vegetable broth, and follow the rest of the recipe as instructed. You’ll still enjoy a creamy and flavorful soup.

How should I store leftovers of this creamy chicken wild rice soup?

The soup can be stored in the fridge for three to four days. As the rice absorbs liquid over time, you may need to add a bit more broth when reheating leftovers to maintain the desired consistency.

Conclusion

Creamy Chicken Wild Rice is more than just a recipe—it’s a warm hug in a bowl that brings loved ones together. Whether you’re craving something cozy on a chilly day or looking for a simple yet flavorful meal to share with family and friends, this creamy soup is sure to hit the spot. The velvety broth, tender chicken, and hearty wild rice combine beautifully to create a dish that is both comforting and satisfying.

With a few handy tips and tricks up your sleeve, you can easily whip up this Creamy Chicken Wild Rice soup anytime, whether you’re in a rush or have a lazy afternoon to enjoy the cooking process. From prepping ingredients ahead of time to enhancing flavors with simple seasonings, this recipe is versatile and can be customized to suit your preferences—whether you prefer a vegetarian version or want to use up leftover turkey.

So, grab a crusty loaf of bread for dipping, pour yourself a bowl of this soul-warming soup, and savor the delicious flavors that come together in every spoonful. With its ability to get even better with time and its versatility in ingredients, Creamy Chicken Wild Rice is a recipe that will surely become a staple in your kitchen, bringing joy and comfort to all who gather around your table.