For the Topping:
- ½ cup shredded cheese (optional, but makes it extra delicious!)
- ¼ cup additional sliced almonds
Step-by-Step Guide to Making It
Step 1: Cook the Wild Rice
- Bring a pot of water or chicken broth to a boil.
- Add 1 cup of wild rice and cook according to the package instructions (usually 45-50 minutes).
- Drain any excess water and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
- While the rice cooks, season 2 chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a pinch of thyme.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until fully cooked.
- Let it rest for 5 minutes, then shred or chop into bite-sized pieces.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
- In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon butter.
- Add the sliced mushrooms and carrots and cook for 5-7 minutes until softened.
- Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt 3 tablespoons butter over medium heat.
- Stir in 3 tablespoons flour and whisk until it forms a smooth paste (roux).
- Slowly add chicken broth, whisking constantly.
- Add milk, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Cook for 5 minutes, stirring until the sauce thickens.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, combine:
✅ Cooked wild rice
✅ Shredded chicken
✅ Sautéed mushrooms and carrots
✅ Creamy sauce
✅ ½ cup toasted almonds - Stir everything together until well combined.
Step 6: Add the Topping & Bake
- Sprinkle shredded cheese and extra almonds over the top.
- Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, until golden and bubbly.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve!
- Remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color.
- Let sit for 5 minutes before serving (trust me, it’s worth the wait!).
How to Make It Your Own – Variations & Add-Ons
Love experimenting? Here are some fun ways to customize this dish:
1. Make it Extra Cheesy 🧀
- Add ½ cup shredded mozzarella or Parmesan into the sauce for extra creaminess.
2. Spice it Up 🔥
- Stir in ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
3. Add More Veggies 🌱
- Try adding spinach, peas, zucchini, or bell peppers.
4. Swap the Protein 🍗
- Use turkey, sausage, or shrimp instead of chicken.
Meal Prep & Leftovers: Storing & Reheating
How to Store
- Fridge: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
How to Reheat
- Oven: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat individual servings for 1-2 minutes.
Final Thoughts: My Favorite Recipe of All Time
I love a good casserole, but this dish is truly something special. It’s creamy, hearty, packed with texture and flavor, and every bite is just SO satisfying. The fact that I make it at least 24 times a year says it all—I can’t get enough of it!
If you’re looking for a new family favorite, I promise this will be one of the best meals you’ll ever make. Try it once, and I guarantee you’ll be hooked too!
Now tell me—what’s a dish you love so much that you could eat it all year long? Let’s chat in the comments! 😊🍽️
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