Creating Chicken Wild Rice Casserole is simple and can be done in just a few easy steps:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook Wild Rice: In a medium saucepan, combine the wild rice and chicken broth. Bring to a boil and then reduce heat, covering to simmer for about 40-45 minutes, or until rice is tender.
3. Prepare Vegetables: While the rice cooks, prepare the vegetables. Dice the celery and carrots, and measure out the frozen peas.
4. Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cooked wild rice, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, celery, carrots, and peas. Add garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well combined.
5. Transfer to Casserole Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish. Pour the mixture into the dish and spread evenly.
6. Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
7. Add Cheese: If you’re using cheese, remove the foil after 30 minutes, sprinkle cheddar cheese on top, and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Following these steps will lead you to a delightful Chicken Wild Rice Casserole that is sure to impress all who taste it.