Ingredients: |
Ingredients: 1 (2.25-oz.) package sliced almonds
2 (6.2-oz.) boxes fast-cooking long-grain and wild rice mix
1/4 cup butter
4 celery ribs, chopped
2 medium onions, chopped
5 cups chopped cooked chicken
2 (103/4-oz.) cans cream of mushroom soup
2 (8-oz.) cans chopped water chestnuts, drained
1 (8-oz.) container sour cream
1 cup milk
1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. pepper
4 cups (16 oz.) shredded cheddar cheese, divided
2 cups soft, fresh breadcrumbs
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Directions: |
Directions:1) Preheat oven to 350º. Bake almonds in a single layer in a shallow pan 4 to 6 minutes or until toasted and fragrant, stirring halfway through.
2) Prepare rice mixes according to package directions.
3) Meanwhile, melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat; add celery and onions. Saute 10 minutes or until tender. Stir in chicken, next 6 ingredients, rice, and 3 cups cheese. Spoon mixture into a lightly greased 15 x 10-inch baking dish or 2 (11 x 7-inch) baking dishes. Top with breadcrumbs.
Bake at 350º for 35 minutes. Sprinkle with remaining 1 cup cheese, and top with toasted almonds. Bake 5 minutes.
To Make Ahead: Prepare as directed in steps 2 and 3. Cover with aluminum foil, and freeze up to 1 month. Remove from freezer, and let stand at room temperature 1 hour. Toast almonds as directed in step 1. Bake casserole, covered, at 350º for 30 minutes. Uncover and bake 55 minutes or until thoroughly heated. Sprinkle with 1 c. shredded cheddar cheese and toasted almonds. Bake 5 more minutes.
Makes: 10-12 servings |
This recipe for Chicken and Wild Rice Casserole is from