Name: Creamy Chicken Wild Rice Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6 ounces wild rice mixture (1 package); 1 small onion, diced; 6 ounces brown mushrooms (or cremini), sliced; 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cubed; 1 tablespoon olive oil; ½ teaspoon dried basil; ¼ teaspoon dried thyme leaves; Salt and black pepper, to taste; 1 can condensed cream of mushroom soup; ⅓ cup sour cream; 2 tablespoons chicken broth; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided

If you’ve ever craved a comforting, hearty meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then you’re going to absolutely love this Creamy Chicken Wild Rice Casserole Recipe. It’s one of those dishes I turn to when I want something filling but also packed with flavor — a real crowd-pleaser that’s surprisingly easy to pull together. Keep reading, because I’m about to share all the tips and tricks to make this recipe a permanent favorite in your kitchen.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One-Pot Wonder: You cook the rice, chicken, and veggies together, meaning less mess and simple prep.
Rich & Creamy: The blend of mushroom soup, sour cream, and cheese creates irresistible creaminess.
Comfort Food Classic: This casserole hits all the right notes for cozy dinners and family gatherings.
Customizable: It’s easy to tweak with different herbs, cheeses, or veggies to match your taste.

The image shows a close-up view of a baked casserole dish lined with foil, filled with a creamy rice mixture. The dish has three main layers: the bottom layer is soft, white rice mixed with small pieces of cooked chicken; the middle layer is a mix of melted yellow cheese and creamy sauce, creating a smooth texture; and the top layer is scattered with sautéed brown mushroom slices and small bits of green herbs. A spoon is partially scooping out a portion from the right side, revealing the mixed layers, and the casserole sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7 - Creamy Chicken Wild Rice Casserole, hearty chicken rice casserole, easy wild rice casserole, comforting chicken and rice bake, creamy chicken and mushroom casserole

Ingredients You’ll Need

When I shop for this Creamy Chicken Wild Rice Casserole Recipe, I like to pick fresh mushrooms and a wild rice blend that’s got a mix of grains — it gives the casserole such a lovely texture and earthy flavor. Here’s a quick rundown of everything you’ll want to have on hand.

Flat lay of raw wild rice mixture in a small white ceramic bowl, a small diced yellow onion in a white bowl, sliced brown cremini mushrooms arranged beside it, cubed raw boneless skinless chicken breasts neatly placed on a white plate, a small white bowl of golden olive oil, dried basil and dried thyme leaves sprinkled artfully on the surface, a few whole uncracked brown eggs with clean shells, a small white bowl holding creamy condensed mushroom soup, a small white bowl of smooth sour cream, a small white bowl of clear chicken broth, a small pile of shredded sharp cheddar cheese on a white plate, salt and black pepper flakes delicately scattered for visual balance placed on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p awthu7i m7354615311229779997 - Creamy Chicken Wild Rice Casserole, hearty chicken rice casserole, easy wild rice casserole, comforting chicken and rice bake, creamy chicken and mushroom casserole

Wild rice mixture: I prefer the packaged mixes; they save time and add great texture.
Onion: Diced small so it melds smoothly into the creamy sauce.
Brown mushrooms (or cremini): Add that earthiness and perfect umami note.
Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Cubed so they cook evenly and get nicely browned.
Olive oil: For browning your chicken — a neutral oil works well too.
Dried basil and thyme: These herbs give just enough fragrant flavor without overpowering.
Salt and black pepper: To taste — I always suggest seasoning as you go.
Condensed cream of mushroom soup: The creamy base that ties it all together.
Sour cream: Adds tang and extra creaminess with a velvety finish.
Chicken broth: Helps loosen the mixture and infuses more flavor.
Shredded cheddar cheese: Divided — half inside for melty goodness, half on top for that cheesy crust.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

I love how flexible this Creamy Chicken Wild Rice Casserole Recipe is. Over time, I’ve tried swapping in different veggies and cheeses to fit what’s in my fridge or my family’s preferences. Don’t hesitate to make it your own!

Veggie Boost: I sometimes add chopped broccoli or carrots for extra color and nutrition, and it blends beautifully.
Cheese Swap: Using Monterey Jack or Gruyère instead of cheddar gives it a different but equally delicious flavor profile.
Herb Switch-Up: Fresh thyme or rosemary can brighten the dish if you want a fresher twist.
Healthier Option: Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream to lighten it up without losing creaminess.

How to Make Creamy Chicken Wild Rice Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics and Mushrooms

Start by heating your saucepan over medium heat, then add diced onions and sliced mushrooms. Cook until they’re just soft and fragrant — this usually takes about 5 minutes. Don’t rush; this step builds the foundation of flavor in the casserole. When I miss this, the whole dish feels flat, so take your time here!

Step 2: Cook the Wild Rice

Next, toss the wild rice mixture into the pan with the onions and mushrooms. Follow the package instructions closely — wild rice can take anywhere from 35 to 45 minutes to cook. I learned the hard way that undercooked rice ruins the texture, so make sure it’s tender but still has a slight chew.

Step 3: Brown the Chicken

While the rice cooks, season your cubed chicken with dried basil, thyme, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, then brown the chicken pieces on all sides until they’re golden and nearly cooked through. This step locks in flavor and gives the chicken a better texture than just boiling it. I always resist overcooking here to keep the meat juicy.

Step 4: Mix Everything Together

Once the rice is cooked and the chicken is browned, combine them in a big bowl with the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, chicken broth, and half the shredded cheddar cheese. Give it a good toss until everything’s well coated and creamy. If the mixture feels too thick, a splash more broth can help loosen it up.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Transfer your creamy mixture into a foil-lined 9×13 pan — lining it helps with cleanup, trust me. Cover it tightly with foil and bake at 375°F for about 20 minutes. After that, remove the foil, sprinkle the remaining cheese on top, and bake another 5 to 7 minutes until it’s bubbly and golden on top. Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld and the casserole firm up just a bit.

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Pro Tips for Making Creamy Chicken Wild Rice Casserole Recipe

Perfect Rice Texture: Don’t skip testing the rice before mixing; it should be tender but still have a slight bite.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When browning chicken, spread the pieces out to get a good sear instead of steaming.
Use Heavy Duty Foil: It holds up better in the oven and makes cleanup a breeze.
Avoid Dry Casserole: If your mixture looks thick before baking, add an extra tablespoon or two of chicken broth.

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Wild Rice Casserole Recipe

The dish is a creamy mushroom casserole served in a small white bowl placed on top of a white plate with another white plate underneath. The casserole has layers of soft beige mashed potatoes mixed with browned mushroom slices, light brown cooked chicken chunks, and melted pale yellow cheese. The top layer is garnished with sautéed, slightly crispy brown mushrooms and green herbs. The background is a white marbled surface with a whole small white mushroom and thyme sprigs to the left. In the background, a white baking dish filled with more casserole is partially visible. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7 - Creamy Chicken Wild Rice Casserole, hearty chicken rice casserole, easy wild rice casserole, comforting chicken and rice bake, creamy chicken and mushroom casserole

Garnishes

I often sprinkle a little chopped fresh parsley or green onions on top right before serving for a pop of color and freshness. It really brightens the richness of the casserole. If you’re feeling indulgent, a light drizzle of extra sour cream on the side is also fantastic.

Side Dishes

My go-to sides with this casserole are simple steamed green beans or a crisp mixed green salad with a tangy vinaigrette. The freshness cuts through the richness perfectly. Roasted Brussels sprouts or honey-glazed carrots also complement it beautifully if you want something a little heartier.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special occasion, I’ve baked this casserole in individual ramekins — it makes for a charming personal serving. You can also top sections with a handful of toasted nuts like pecans or walnuts before baking for a lovely crunch. Presentation is all about adding little touches that make your meal feel extra cozy and inviting.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge, and it usually lasts 3-4 days. I find the flavors actually deepen overnight, making leftovers even better the next day.

Freezing

This casserole freezes really well! I portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. When I’m ready to enjoy, I just thaw it in the fridge overnight and heat it gently—almost like magic.

Reheating

To reheat, I cover leftovers with foil and warm them in a 350°F oven until heated through, about 20 minutes. This method keeps the casserole creamy and prevents it from drying out—microwaving tends to make it less appealing in texture.

FAQs

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

Yes! While the wild rice mixture adds a nutty texture and flavor, you can substitute with long-grain white rice or brown rice. Just be sure to adjust cooking times and liquid amounts accordingly to ensure the rice is fully cooked and the casserole isn’t too dry or watery.
Is it okay to use leftover cooked chicken?

Absolutely! Using pre-cooked chicken can save time, just add it when mixing the casserole ingredients and reduce the baking time slightly since the chicken is already cooked. It’s a great way to use up leftovers without sacrificing flavor.
Can I make this casserole vegetarian?

Definitely! Swap the chicken for hearty mushrooms or plant-based protein, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Also, make sure your cream of mushroom soup is vegetarian-friendly. This makes a delicious meatless version that everyone will enjoy.
What’s the best cheese to use for this casserole?

Cheddar is classic for a reason — it melts well and adds sharp flavor. But feel free to experiment with mozzarella for gooeyness or gouda for a smoky twist. Mixing cheeses can add amazing complexity, too!

Final Thoughts

When I first tried this Creamy Chicken Wild Rice Casserole Recipe, I was amazed at how the simple ingredients came together to create something so rich, comforting, and surprisingly elegant. It’s been a staple in my family ever since, especially on chilly nights when we want food that feels like a warm hug. I truly hope you give it a try and find it as delicious and easy as I do. Happy cooking!