5 Delicious Chicken and Wild Rice Recipes to Try Now

Chicken and Wild Rice Soup

When the weather cools down, nothing comforts like a bowl of warm, hearty soup. Chicken and wild rice soup is a classic, with variations to suit every palate, from creamy to brothy, this dish can be adapted to any preferences.

Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken breasts, diced
• 1 cup uncooked wild rice
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup water
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup heavy cream or milk (optional for creaminess)

Instructions

1. Preparation: Rinse the wild rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove any excess starch.
2. In a large pot, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces, cooking until browned.
3. Remove the chicken and set aside. In the same pot, sauté the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic until the vegetables are softened.
4. Add the wild rice, thyme, rosemary, chicken broth, and water. Stir to combine, then return the chicken to the pot.
5. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Let it cook for about 45 minutes, or until the rice is tender.
6. If you desire a creamier soup, add heavy cream or milk and let it warm through.
7. Season with salt and pepper, and serve hot.

🌟 Note: Wild rice can take longer to cook than white or brown rice. Ensure to taste for doneness before serving.

Wild Rice Chicken Casserole

A casserole is not only comfort food at its best but also an excellent meal for easy prep and make-ahead dinners.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked wild rice
• 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
• 1 can (10.75 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ¹⁄₄ cup milk
• ¹⁄₂ cup slivered almonds
• ¹⁄₂ cup peas (optional)
• ¹⁄₄ tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ¹⁄₂ cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together the cooked wild rice, chicken, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, milk, cheese, almonds, peas, garlic powder, and season with salt and pepper.
3. Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
4. If using breadcrumbs, sprinkle them evenly over the top of the casserole.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes or until the edges are bubbly and the top is golden brown.
6. Let it sit for a few minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.

This dish is a family favorite, easy to prepare and freezer-friendly.

📌 Note: For a crunchier topping, you can add crumbled Ritz crackers instead of breadcrumbs.

In wrapping up, these recipes show how versatile chicken and wild rice can be, from a warming soup perfect for cold days to a comforting casserole suitable for family dinners or meal prep. Each dish brings out the unique texture and nutty flavor of wild rice, making your meals not only nutritious but also full of taste. Incorporating these recipes into your cooking routine can offer a delightful variety, ensuring that dinner is never mundane.

Can I use brown rice instead of wild rice in these recipes?

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Yes, you can use brown rice as a substitute, but keep in mind that cooking times might differ, and the flavor will be less nutty.

How long can I store these dishes in the fridge?

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These dishes can be refrigerated for up to 3-4 days. Ensure they are stored in an airtight container to keep them fresh.

Can I make these recipes gluten-free?

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Most of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but be sure to check labels on canned soups and use gluten-free breadcrumbs or skip the topping altogether for a gluten-free option.