The Pioneer Woman Chicken and Wild Rice Casserole is a delightful, hearty dish that brings warmth and comfort to the dinner table. Known for its rich flavors and creamy texture, this casserole blends tender chicken, nutty wild rice, and a medley of vegetables, all enveloped in a savory sauce. It’s a meal that’s perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to potlucks, offering a satisfying and nutritious option that’s sure to please everyone.
Follow this complete step-by-step guide to create this classic and beloved casserole in your own kitchen.
What is Pioneer Woman Chicken and Wild Rice Casserole?
The Pioneer Woman Chicken and Wild Rice Casserole is a beloved dish popularized by Ree Drummond, known as the Pioneer Woman. It’s a rich and creamy casserole that blends cooked chicken, wild rice, vegetables, and a savory sauce, all baked to perfection. This dish is ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or any gathering where comfort food is a must.
Other Pioneer Woman Recipes
- Pioneer Woman Broccoli Chicken Rice Casserole
- Pioneer Woman Ham And Potato Casserole
- Uncle Ben’s Chicken and Wild Rice Casserole
Why You Should Try This Recipe
- Flavorful Combination: The blend of wild rice and tender chicken creates a deliciously hearty and satisfying meal.
- Nutritious: Packed with protein from the chicken and fiber from the wild rice, it’s a nutritious choice.
- Versatile: This casserole is versatile and can be adjusted to suit different tastes and dietary needs.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for meal prep, this casserole can be made ahead and reheated.
- Crowd-Pleaser: It’s a dish that everyone will love, making it great for gatherings and family meals.
Ingredients Needed to Make Pioneer Woman Chicken and Wild Rice Casserole
- 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 2 cups cooked wild rice
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1 cup diced carrots
- 1 cup diced celery
- 1 cup diced onions
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional)
Instructions to Make Pioneer Woman Chicken and Wild Rice Casserole
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions, carrots, and celery, and cook until softened.
- Add Mushrooms: Stir in the mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, wild rice, sautéed vegetables, chicken broth, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese and breadcrumbs if using.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Serve: Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!
What Goes Well With Pioneer Woman Chicken and Wild Rice Casserole
- Green Salad: A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette pairs well with the rich casserole.
- Roasted Vegetables: Serve with roasted Brussels sprouts, carrots, or asparagus for added nutrition.
- Crusty Bread: A slice of crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
- Mashed Potatoes: For a truly comforting meal, serve alongside creamy mashed potatoes.
- Steamed Broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli adds a nice contrast to the casserole’s richness.
Essential Tips for Perfecting Pioneer Woman Chicken and Wild Rice Casserole
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and high-quality chicken will enhance the flavor.
- Cook Rice Properly: Ensure the wild rice is cooked until tender but not mushy.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the mixture before baking and adjust the seasoning as needed.
- Cheese Selection: For extra flavor, try using a mix of cheeses like Gruyère or Parmesan.
- Add Crunch: For a crunchy topping, add breadcrumbs or crushed crackers.
- Prevent Dryness: If the casserole looks dry, add a bit more chicken broth before baking.
Variations of Pioneer Woman Chicken and Wild Rice Casserole
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.
- Vegetarian Version: Replace chicken with more vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and breadcrumbs.
- Different Meats: Substitute chicken with turkey or ham for a different flavor profile.
Storing Pioneer Woman Chicken and Wild Rice Casserole: Best Practices
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months.
- Thaw Properly: Thaw frozen casserole in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating Pioneer Woman Chicken and Wild Rice Casserole: Best Practices
- Oven Reheat: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.
- Microwave Reheat: For quicker reheating, use the microwave on medium power for 3-5 minutes.
- Avoid Drying Out: Cover with foil or a microwave-safe lid to prevent the casserole from drying out.
Nutrition Value (per serving):
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 3g
FAQs
How Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the Pioneer Woman Chicken and Wild Rice Casserole a day or two in advance. Simply follow the recipe up to the baking step, cover the assembled casserole tightly with foil, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove from the fridge and bake as directed, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through.
How Can I Make Pioneer Woman Chicken and Wild Rice Casserole Healthier?
To make the Pioneer Woman Chicken and Wild Rice Casserole healthier, consider using low-fat or fat-free versions of sour cream and cream of mushroom soup. Opt for brown rice instead of wild rice for added fiber. Incorporate more vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini to boost the nutritional value. Additionally, reduce the amount of cheese or use a reduced-fat cheese to lower the calorie and fat content.
Why Do You Rinse Wild Rice Before Cooking?
Rinsing wild rice before cooking helps to remove any dust or debris that may be present from packaging. Additionally, rinsing can help to remove some of the surface starch, which can make the rice less sticky and more separate once cooked.
Does Rice Need to Be Cooked Before Adding to Casserole?
Yes, rice needs to be cooked before adding it to the casserole. Using cooked rice ensures that it has the proper texture and that the casserole bakes evenly. Uncooked rice can absorb too much liquid during baking, resulting in a dry casserole or unevenly cooked rice.
How to Jazz Up Chicken and Rice?
To jazz up chicken and rice, consider adding a variety of vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or spinach for extra color and nutrition. Spices and herbs such as garlic, paprika, thyme, or rosemary can add more flavor. Incorporating a splash of lemon juice or zest can provide a fresh, tangy twist. Additionally, topping the dish with shredded cheese or toasted nuts can add a delightful texture and enhance the overall taste.
Can I Use a Different Type of Rice?
Yes, you can substitute wild rice with other types of rice, such as brown rice or a wild rice blend. However, keep in mind that different types of rice have varying cooking times and water requirements. Be sure to cook the rice according to its specific instructions before adding it to the casserole.
What Can I Use Instead of Cream of Mushroom Soup?
If you prefer not to use canned cream of mushroom soup, you can make your own homemade version. Combine 2 tablespoons of butter, 2 tablespoons of flour, 1 cup of milk, and 1 cup of chicken or vegetable broth in a saucepan. Cook until thickened, then add sautéed mushrooms and season with salt and pepper to taste.
How Do I Prevent the Casserole from Becoming Dry?
To ensure your casserole remains moist and creamy, make sure you don’t overbake it. Additionally, you can add a bit more chicken broth or a splash of milk to the mixture before baking. Covering the casserole with foil during the first half of baking can also help retain moisture.
Final Words
The Pioneer Woman Chicken and Wild Rice Casserole is a fantastic dish that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. With its rich flavors and easy preparation, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this casserole is a surefire hit. Enjoy the process of making and sharing this delightful dish with your loved ones.
Other Yummy Recipes:
- Pioneer Woman Chicken Enchilada Casserole
- Pioneer Woman Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole
- Pioneer Woman Biscuits and Gravy Casserole
- Pioneer Woman Chicken Stuffing Casserole
Pioneer Woman Chicken and Wild Rice Casserole
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 30
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
The Pioneer Woman Chicken and Wild Rice Casserole is a beloved dish popularized by Ree Drummond, known as the Pioneer Woman. It’s a rich and creamy casserole that blends cooked chicken, wild rice, vegetables, and a savory sauce, all baked to perfection. This dish is ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or any gathering where comfort food is a must.
Ingredients
- 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 2 cups cooked wild rice
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1 cup diced carrots
- 1 cup diced celery
- 1 cup diced onions
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions, carrots, and celery, and cook until softened.
- Add Mushrooms: Stir in the mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, wild rice, sautéed vegetables, chicken broth, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese and breadcrumbs if using.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Serve: Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!
