Microwave Chicken With Wild Rice
A comforting microwave chicken and wild rice dish with savory mushrooms and a hint of sherry, perfect for quick weeknight dinners and family gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Reserve 1 tablespoon of rice seasoning mix from the package.
- Combine the remaining seasoning mix with the rice, sliced mushrooms, sherry, and 1 1/3 cups of hot water in a 7 x 11-inch glass baking dish.
- Cover the dish and microwave on High for 15 minutes.
- Stir the rice and seasoned chicken, then add the reserved seasoning mix.
- Arrange the chicken breasts and thighs, skin side up, over the rice.
- Sprinkle with paprika and cover the dish again.
- Microwave on High for 12 to 15 minutes or until the chicken is no longer pink near the bone, turning the dish every 5 minutes.
- Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding garlic or onion powder to the rice mix. If you don't have dry sherry, white wine or chicken broth can be good substitutes. You can also swap out the chicken thighs for Pepperidge Farm Chicken Breasts for a leaner option. Adjust the paprika to your taste for a spicier kick.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad. You could also serve it alongside Heavenly Hash Browns for a comforting meal. For a heartier option, consider a slice of crusty bread to soak up the savory juices.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You may want to add a splash of water to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Microwave Chicken With Wild Rice contains roughly 669 calories, with 36g protein, 123g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (333% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (283% of the Daily Value), and iron (222% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 79g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly. It may take longer to cook thoroughly, so check that the chicken is no longer pink near the bone before serving.
What can I substitute for wild rice?
If you can't find wild rice, a blend of brown rice and white rice can work as a substitute. Just ensure you adjust the cooking time as different rice varieties may have varying cooking durations.
Is it possible to make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the rice mixture and chicken, assemble the dish, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before microwaving. This makes it a great option for meal prep or entertaining.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).