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Chicken and Wild Rice Recipe

Chicken and Wild Rice Recipe - Cheap Delicious Meals

I remember the first time I had chicken and wild rice. It was at a cozy little dinner party, where laughter filled the room and the aroma of home-cooked meals wafted through the air. Someone placed a beautiful dish on the table, and I couldn't take my eyes off it.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 5
Course: Lunch
Cuisine: American
Calories: 742
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • Cooking spray
  • 2 pounds bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs approximately 4 large pieces
  • ½ cup tangy balsamic vinaigrette
  • ½ cup finely diced sweet onion
  • 1 stalk celery, minced
  • ½ cup fresh cremini mushrooms, thinly sliced
  • 2 cups long-grain brown rice
  • 2 tablespoons wild rice blend
  • 4 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme leaves
  • 1 teaspoon coarse kosher salt
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper

Method
 

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
  1. Start by spraying a large skillet with cooking spray. Heat it over medium-high heat. Place the chicken thighs skin side down and season them with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
    Brown the chicken for about 5 minutes on each side. This seals in the moisture and builds flavor. Once cooked, remove the chicken and set it aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
  1. In the same skillet, add the diced onion, minced celery, and sliced mushrooms. Sauté them for about 4-5 minutes until the vegetables are soft and fragrant. The moisture from the mushrooms will add to the flavor base of your dish.
Step 3: Combine Rice and Broth
  1. Now, stir in the brown rice and wild rice blend with the sautéed veggies. Ensure everything is well-mixed. Next, pour in the chicken broth, followed by the balsamic vinaigrette. The tangy elements will brighten the entire dish.
Step 4: Nestle the Chicken
  1. Return the browned chicken to the skillet, placing it right on top of the rice mixture. This allows the chicken to finish cooking while imparting its delicious flavor to the rice. Cover the skillet with a lid, reduce the heat to low, and let it simmer for about 45 minutes.
Step 5: Fluff and Serve
  1. After 45 minutes, check your chicken. It should be cooked through, and the rice should be tender. Remove the chicken and allow it to rest for a few minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork, taste, and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve the chicken on a bed of the wild rice mixture, and enjoy!

Notes

  • Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme can greatly enhance flavor. Add them right before serving.
  • Marinate Chicken in Advance: If time allows, marinate the chicken in balsamic vinaigrette overnight for deeper flavor.
  • Experiment with Broths: Use different broths like vegetable or mushroom for a unique profile.
  • Add Vegetables: Feel free to toss in veggies such as spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition and color.
  • Leftovers: This dish stores exceptionally well, so don’t hesitate to make a double batch!