Holiday Chicken and Wild Rice Pilaf Bowl
This comforting Holiday Chicken and Wild Rice Pilaf Bowl combines tender, juicy chicken with a medley of wild rice, vibrant vegetables, and aromatic herbs. Perfect for festive gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners, this dish not only delights the palate but also creates an inviting atmosphere around the table. Each spoonful bursts with flavor and warmth, making it an irresistible addition to your holiday menu.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup wild rice blend
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup diced carrots
- 1 cup diced celery
- 2 tsp fresh thyme leaves
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: ¼ cup toasted pine nuts
Instructions
- Prepare your ingredients: Chop the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Rinse the wild rice under cold water.
- Sauté aromatics: In a large pot over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add onions and garlic; cook until translucent (about 3-4 minutes).
- Add vegetables and rice: Stir in carrots, celery, and wild rice blend for an additional 1-2 minutes.
- Pour in broth: Add chicken broth along with salt, pepper, and thyme. Bring to a gentle boil; cover once boiling.
- Simmer until done: Reduce heat to low; simmer for about 40-45 minutes or until wild rice is tender.
- Cook chicken separately: Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and herbs. Sear in another pan over medium-high heat until golden brown (about 6-7 minutes per side).
- Serve: Layer the cooked chicken atop the wild rice pilaf; garnish with parsley and optional pine nuts.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (350g)
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: Substitute wild rice with quinoa or farro for a different twist. Add dried cranberries or chopped pecans for extra flavor. Ensure chicken is at room temperature before cooking to promote even cooking.