Creamy Chicken Wild Rice: 7 Comforting Dinner Ideas

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Creamy Chicken Wild Rice is the ultimate comfort food that warms the soul on chilly days. This rich and hearty dish combines tender shredded chicken, nutty wild rice, and a medley of fresh vegetables simmered in a flavorful chicken stock. It’s thickened with a creamy cornstarch slurry and finished with a splash of lemon juice, creating a delightful balance of flavors and textures. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner or a meal prep option, this recipe is versatile and satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Chicken Wild Rice

This dish is a go-to for many reasons. First, it’s incredibly comforting, making it perfect for family dinners. Second, it’s a one-pot meal, which means less cleanup afterward. Third, it’s packed with protein from the chicken, making it a nutritious choice. Additionally, the wild rice adds a unique nutty flavor and texture that complements the creaminess perfectly. If you’re after something healthy, this dish can be prepared as a gluten-free creamy chicken wild rice option. Lastly, it’s a fantastic way to use leftover chicken, making it an easy creamy chicken wild rice recipe for busy nights!

Ingredients for Creamy Chicken Wild Rice

Gather these items:

1 ½ tablespoon olive oil
½ cup onion, diced
½ cup celery stalk, diced
½ cup carrots, thinly sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
½ tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
2 sprigs rosemary
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
5 cups chicken stock
½ cup wild rice mix (Lundberg’s Wild Blend® recommended)
1 ½ cups cooked and shredded chicken (such as rotisserie chicken)
2 tablespoons cornstarch
¼ cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon lemon juice

How to Make Creamy Chicken Wild Rice Step-by-Step

Step 1: Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add diced onion, celery, and sliced carrots. Sauté them for about 5 minutes until they are slightly softened, releasing their natural sweetness.
Step 2: Stir in the minced garlic, chopped thyme, and rosemary sprigs. Cook for 30 to 60 seconds until fragrant. Season the mixture with salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper if using, to add a subtle spicy warmth.
Step 3: Pour in the chicken stock, reserving a small splash to make a cornstarch slurry later. Scrape the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon to loosen any browned bits, adding rich flavor to the soup.
Step 4: Stir in the wild rice mix and shredded cooked chicken. Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer gently. Stir occasionally and cook for 40 to 50 minutes until the wild rice is tender but still chewy.
Step 5: Whisk the reserved splash of stock with cornstarch until smooth to create a slurry. Stir this mixture into the soup along with the heavy cream. Simmer the soup for 3 to 5 minutes until it thickens slightly to a glossy finish. Add the slurry gradually and stop as soon as it coats the back of a spoon.
Step 6: Remove the soup from heat and stir in the lemon juice. Taste the soup and adjust salt, pepper, and lemon juice to your preference for a perfect balance of rich, creamy, and bright flavors.
Step 7: Serve the soup warm with crusty bread. If the soup thickens upon standing, loosen it with a splash of warm stock before serving. For make-ahead meals, add the cornstarch slurry and cream only after reheating to maintain the best texture.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Creamy Chicken Wild Rice

Keep these in mind:

Use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
Adjust seasoning based on your taste.
This soup can be frozen for later use.
For added flavor, consider including more vegetables like spinach or mushrooms.
For a richer taste, you can substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream.

Best Ways to Serve Creamy Chicken Wild Rice

This dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh green salad. You can also serve it as a creamy chicken and wild rice casserole by baking it in the oven topped with breadcrumbs for a crispy finish. Another delightful option is to enjoy it alongside roasted vegetables for a wholesome meal.

How to Store and Reheat Creamy Chicken Wild Rice

To store, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of warm chicken stock to restore its creamy texture. This is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious creamy chicken wild rice with vegetables throughout the week.

Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Chicken Wild Rice

What’s the secret to perfect Creamy Chicken Wild Rice?

The secret lies in using quality chicken stock and allowing the wild rice to cook properly. This ensures a deep flavor and a satisfying texture throughout the dish.

Can I make Creamy Chicken Wild Rice ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it in advance. Just keep the cornstarch slurry and cream separate until you’re ready to serve. This will help maintain the dish’s creamy consistency.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Creamy Chicken Wild Rice?

To avoid common pitfalls, ensure you properly sauté the vegetables to develop flavor. Also, avoid overcooking the wild rice, as it should remain tender yet chewy for the best texture.

Variations of Creamy Chicken Wild Rice You Can Try

Consider trying a slow cooker creamy chicken wild rice version for hands-off cooking. You can also make a healthy creamy chicken wild rice option by using low-fat milk instead of cream. For a twist, add lemon zest or different herbs to customize the flavor profile to your liking!