Uncle Ben’s Chicken and Wild Rice Casserole Recipe

Uncle Ben’s Chicken and Wild Rice Casserole is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, savory wild rice, and a creamy sauce. This casserole is perfect for a hearty family dinner or a potluck gathering. Follow this step-by-step guide to create a delicious and satisfying meal.

What is Uncle Ben’s Chicken and Wild Rice Casserole?

Uncle Ben’s Chicken and Wild Rice Casserole is a classic comfort food dish that features Uncle Ben’s Wild Rice, shredded chicken, and a rich, creamy sauce. This casserole is baked to perfection, resulting in a dish that is both hearty and delicious. It’s a go-to recipe for those who love wholesome, home-cooked meals.

Other Pioneer Woman Recipes

• Pioneer Woman Broccoli Chicken Rice Casserole
• Pioneer Woman Chicken and Wild Rice Casserole
• Pioneer Woman Ham And Potato Casserole

Why You Should Try This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of chicken and wild rice with a creamy sauce is simply irresistible.
• Nutritious: This dish is packed with protein and fiber, making it a balanced meal.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and easy steps, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Versatile: You can easily modify the recipe to suit your taste or dietary preferences.
• Crowd-Pleaser: It’s a dish that everyone will love, making it ideal for family gatherings.

Ingredients Needed to Make Uncle Ben Chicken and Wild Rice Casserole

• 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 1 box Uncle Ben’s Long Grain & Wild Rice Original Recipe
• 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 chicken 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 Uncle Ben Chicken and Wild Rice Casserole

1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook Rice: Prepare Uncle Ben’s Long Grain & Wild Rice according to package instructions.
3. Cook Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions, carrots, and celery, and cook until softened.
4. Add Mushrooms: Stir in the mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown.
5. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, prepared wild rice, sautéed vegetables, chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
6. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese and breadcrumbs if using.
7. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
8. Serve: Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!

What Goes Well With Uncle Ben Chicken and Wild Rice Casserole

• Green Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the rich casserole.
• Roasted Vegetables: Serve with roasted Brussels sprouts, carrots, or green beans for added nutrition.
• Crusty Bread: A slice of crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
• Mashed Potatoes: Pair with creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting meal.
• Steamed Broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli adds a nice contrast to the casserole’s richness.

Essential Tips for Perfecting Uncle Ben 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 Uncle Ben 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 chicken soup and breadcrumbs.
• Different Meats: Substitute chicken with turkey or ham for a different flavor profile.

Storing Uncle Ben 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 Uncle Ben 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: 420
• Protein: 26g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Cholesterol: 85mg
• Sodium: 700mg
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 2g

FAQs

Why Do You Cook Rice Before Adding It to the Casserole?

Cooking rice before adding it to the casserole ensures that it has the proper texture and cooks evenly. Uncooked rice can absorb too much liquid during baking, resulting in a dry or unevenly cooked casserole.

How Can I Add More Flavor to My Chicken and Wild Rice Casserole?

To add more flavor to your chicken and wild rice casserole, consider incorporating fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary, using a mix of cheeses such as Gruyère or Parmesan, and adding a splash of white wine or lemon juice to the sauce. Sautéing the vegetables with garlic and onions also enhances the overall taste.

Can I Use a Different Type of Rice for This Casserole?

Yes, you can use different 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 Are Some Healthy Substitutions for This Casserole?

For a healthier version of the casserole, use low-fat or fat-free sour cream and cream of chicken soup. Substitute white rice with brown rice for added fiber, and incorporate more vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini. Reducing the amount of cheese or using a reduced-fat cheese can also lower the calorie and fat content.

Final Words

Uncle Ben Chicken and Wild Rice Casserole is a comforting and satisfying dish that is perfect for any occasion. With its rich flavors and easy preparation, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy making and sharing this delicious casserole with your family and friends.

Other Yummy Recipes:

• Pioneer Woman Chicken Enchilada Casserole
• Pioneer Woman Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole
• Pioneer Woman Chicken Stuffing Casserole

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