Mediterranean Creamy Mushroom Chicken & Wild Rice

🍄 Mediterranean Creamy Mushroom Chicken & Wild Rice

📝 Description

This Mediterranean Creamy Mushroom Chicken & Wild Rice is a comforting one-pan style meal made with tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, nutty wild rice, and a light creamy sauce built on Greek yogurt and herbs instead of heavy cream. Olive oil, garlic, and fresh herbs give it classic Mediterranean depth while keeping it balanced and nourishing. Perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or cozy nights in.

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🐔 Ingredients

Chicken & Rice

• 1½ lb (680 g) boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs

• 1 cup uncooked wild rice (or wild rice blend)

• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 10 oz (280 g) mushrooms, sliced (cremini or button)

• 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

• ½ teaspoon dried oregano

• ½ teaspoon paprika

• Salt and black pepper to taste

Creamy Sauce

• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (full-fat or low-fat)

• ½ cup warm broth (taken from the pan)

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

Finish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or dill, chopped

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👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Cook the rice:
   Rinse wild rice and cook according to package instructions using chicken broth instead of water. Set aside.

2. Sear the chicken:
   Season chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear chicken 4–5 minutes per side until golden. Remove and set aside.

3. Sauté vegetables:
   In the same pan, add onion and cook until soft. Add garlic and mushrooms; sauté until mushrooms release moisture and turn golden.

4. Build flavor:
   Stir in thyme and oregano. Add a splash of broth to deglaze the pan.

5. Make it creamy:
   In a bowl, whisk Greek yogurt with warm broth, lemon juice, and Dijon. Lower heat and stir mixture gently into the pan.

6. Combine:
   Return chicken to the skillet. Simmer gently for 8–10 minutes until chicken is cooked through and sauce thickens (do not boil).

7. Serve:
   Spoon creamy mushroom chicken over wild rice. Garnish with fresh herbs.

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🍽 Serving Ideas

• Serve with a simple cucumber-tomato salad

• Add steamed green beans or roasted broccoli

• Enjoy as a comforting one-bowl meal

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❓ Q & A

Q: Is this really creamy without heavy cream?
A: Yes! Greek yogurt creates a rich, tangy creaminess while keeping the dish lighter and Mediterranean-friendly.

Q: Can I use brown rice instead of wild rice?
A: Absolutely. Brown rice, farro, or barley all work well.

Q: How do I prevent the yogurt from curdling?
A: Always lower the heat and mix yogurt with warm broth before adding. Never let the sauce boil.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes. Store in the fridge up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat.

Q: Can I make it dairy-free?
A: You can substitute unsweetened cashew or almond yogurt, though flavor will be slightly different.