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As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, there's nothing quite like the warmth of a hearty casserole to bring comfort to our tables. The Cozy Chicken Wild Rice Casserole is the perfect embodiment of this sentiment, combining tender chicken, wholesome wild rice, and a medley of fresh vegetables into one dish that promises to delight the senses. Not only is this dish a staple for family gatherings, but it also serves as an ideal weeknight dinner solution, satisfying both hunger and the soul.

Chicken Wild Rice Casserole

Discover the ultimate comfort food with this Cozy Chicken Wild Rice Casserole recipe. Perfect for chilly evenings, this dish combines tender chicken, nutty wild rice, and colorful vegetables, all enveloped in a creamy sauce for a satisfying meal. Easy to prepare and customize, it's ideal for family gatherings or weeknight dinners. Bake until golden and crispy on top, and serve with a fresh salad or roasted veggies for a complete meal that warms the soul. Dive into cozy flavors that bring everyone together!
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Ingredients
  

2 cups cooked wild rice

2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works well)

1 cup sliced mushrooms

1 cup chopped onion

1 cup chopped celery

1 cup diced carrots

3 cloves garlic, minced

2 cups low-sodium chicken broth

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup grated cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 teaspoon dried rosemary

1 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

2 tablespoons olive oil

1/2 cup frozen peas

1 cup panko breadcrumbs (for topping)

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

    Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, add the chopped onion, celery, and carrots. Sauté for about 5 minutes until they start to soften. Then add the sliced mushrooms and minced garlic, cooking for an additional 3 minutes.

      Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked wild rice, shredded chicken, sautéed vegetables, chicken broth, heavy cream, peas, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Stir well to ensure all ingredients are evenly mixed.

        Prepare for Baking: Transfer the mixture into a greased 3-quart (9x13) casserole dish. Sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese evenly on top.

          Add Breadcrumbs: In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with a little olive oil (about 1 tablespoon) until lightly coated. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the cheese layer for a deliciously crispy topping.

            Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until bubbling and golden brown on top.

              Garnish and Serve: Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 minutes | 1 hour | 6 servings