Ingredients

- 8 +

• 4 cups cooked and shredded rotisserie chicken, carefully removed from the bone and pulled into bite-sized pieces
• 2 cups cooked wild rice blend, prepared according to package directions and cooled slightly
• 2 cups sliced fresh mushrooms, preferably cremini or baby bella for enhanced flavor
• 1 large yellow onion, finely diced into uniform pieces for even cooking
• 3 medium carrots, peeled and cut into thin quarter-inch slices
• 3 celery stalks, cleaned and diced into small uniform pieces
• 2 cups heavy cream or half-and-half, brought to room temperature
• 2 cans cream of mushroom soup (10.5 oz each), preferably low-sodium
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided for layering and topping
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, divided for sautéing vegetables and making roux
• 3 cloves garlic, minced finely for maximum flavor distribution
• 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves, stems removed
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt, or to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs for a crispy golden topping

Instructions

1

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and position the rack in the center for optimal heat distribution

✓ Done

2

Generously grease a deep 9x13 inch casserole dish with butter or cooking spray, making sure to coat all corners and sides

✓ Done

3

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 1/4 cup butter and sauté onions, carrots, and celery until softened, about 8-10 minutes

✓ Done

4

Add mushrooms and garlic to the skillet, cooking for an additional 5 minutes until mushrooms release their moisture

✓ Done

5

In a separate large bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, heavy cream, 1 cup of shredded cheese, and all seasonings

✓ Done

6

Fold in the cooked wild rice, shredded chicken, and sautéed vegetables until everything is well combined

✓ Done

7

Transfer the mixture to your prepared casserole dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula

✓ Done

8

Top with remaining cheese and sprinkle panko breadcrumbs evenly across the surface

✓ Done

9

Drizzle the remaining melted butter over the breadcrumbs for optimal browning

✓ Done

10

Bake uncovered for 40-45 minutes until bubbling around the edges and golden brown on top

✓ Done

11

Let stand for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow the casserole to set properly

✓ Done

Kitchen Tools

• Large deep casserole dish (9x13 inches) for even baking and serving
• Heavy-bottom skillet for sautéing vegetables properly
• Sharp chef's knife for precise vegetable cutting
• Wooden spoons and silicone spatulas for gentle mixing

Chef's Tips

Use rotisserie chicken to save time and add extra flavor to your casserole

Cook the wild rice blend ahead of time to streamline the assembly process

Allow dairy ingredients to come to room temperature for smoother incorporation

Toast the panko breadcrumbs in butter before topping for extra crunchiness

🔧 Troubleshooting Tips

️

If mixture seems too dry, add additional cream or broth before baking

️

If top browns too quickly, cover with foil for remainder of cooking time

️

If casserole is too loose, let it rest longer before serving

️

If rice is undercooked, add extra liquid and cooking time

🔄 Recipe Variations

Turkey and Cranberry Version: Use leftover turkey and add dried cranberries for a holiday twist

Seafood Edition: Substitute chicken with a combination of shrimp and scallops

Southwest Style: Add corn, black beans, and Mexican seasonings for a spicy variation

Mediterranean Version: Include artichokes, sun-dried tomatoes, and feta cheese

🥗 Healthy Alternatives

Substitute heavy cream with evaporated milk or Greek yogurt for fewer calories

Use brown rice or quinoa instead of wild rice for additional fiber and nutrients

Replace cream of mushroom soup with a homemade mushroom sauce using whole ingredients

Increase the vegetable content and decrease the amount of cheese to reduce fat

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Pair with a fresh green salad dressed with light vinaigrette for a complete meal

Serve alongside steamed broccoli or roasted Brussels sprouts for extra vegetables

Offer crusty whole grain bread or dinner rolls on the side for soaking up the creamy sauce

Garnish with fresh herbs and a sprinkle of paprika for an elegant presentation

Nutrition Facts

450

Calories

28g

Protein

35g

Carbs

22g

Fat

🥗 Suitable Diets

Can be adapted for gluten-free diets by using GF breadcrumbs and cream soup

Suitable for low-carb diets when substituting cauliflower rice for wild rice

Adaptable for dairy-free diets using coconut milk and dairy-free cheese alternatives

High in protein and can be made keto-friendly with modifications

🎨 Presentation Ideas

Fresh chopped parsley or chives sprinkled on top before serving

Additional shredded cheese melted over the top in the last few minutes

Crispy fried onions for extra crunch and flavor

Toasted sliced almonds for elegant presentation

📦 Storage & Conservation

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days

Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months

Thaw frozen portions overnight in the refrigerator before reheating

Reheat covered in a 350°F oven until hot throughout, about 20-25 minutes

♻️ Leftover Ideas

Transform leftovers into a delicious pot pie filling with added pastry crust

Create chicken and rice soup by adding extra broth and vegetables

Make creative lunch wraps using warmed portions

Use as a filling for twice-baked potatoes

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the wild rice before adding it to the casserole, making it mushy

Using cold ingredients straight from the refrigerator, which affects cooking time

Not properly seasoning each layer of the dish, resulting in bland flavor

Rushing the final resting period, which can make serving messy

FAQ

Can I make this casserole ahead of time? ▶

Yes, assemble up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate before baking

How do I prevent the casserole from becoming dry? ▶

Use enough liquid and cover with foil if needed during baking

Can I use different types of rice? ▶

Yes, any cooked rice works, but cooking times may vary

Is this recipe freezer-friendly? ▶

Yes, it freezes well for up to 3 months when properly stored

How do I know when the casserole is done? ▶

It should be bubbling around edges and golden brown on top

Can I use leftover chicken instead of rotisserie? ▶

Absolutely, any cooked chicken works well in this recipe

What's the best way to reheat leftovers? ▶

Heat covered in oven at 350°F until hot throughout

Reviews

Sarah M.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Jan 22, 2026

The most comforting chicken casserole I've ever made! The wild rice adds such a wonderful nutty flavor.

Michael P.

⭐⭐⭐⭐☆

Jan 31, 2026

Great recipe but needed a bit more seasoning for my taste. Added some extra herbs the second time.

Jennifer B.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Jan 14, 2026

Perfect comfort food! My entire family cleaned their plates.

Robert K.

⭐⭐⭐⭐☆

Jan 10, 2026

Solid recipe that's become a weekly staple in our house.

Emma T.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Jan 30, 2026

The cream sauce is absolutely divine! Worth every minute of prep time.

David N.

⭐⭐⭐☆☆

Jan 28, 2026

Good basic recipe that I modified with additional vegetables.

Lisa Q.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Jan 8, 2026

Restaurant quality dish that impressed my dinner guests!

James W.

⭐⭐⭐⭐☆

Jan 19, 2026

Excellent comfort food for cold winter evenings.

Maria H.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Jan 23, 2026

The wild rice makes this so much better than regular chicken casserole.

Thomas C.

⭐⭐⭐⭐☆

Jan 21, 2026

Creamy and delicious! Will definitely make again.