Cast Iron Chicken with Wild Rice

Andrea Potischman | Mar 27, 2024

The colder months settle in, there’s nothing quite like a comforting and satisfying meal to warm the soul. This cast iron chicken with wild rice is just what you’ve been missing. A simple, yet hearty dish, that embodies the true essence of comfort food. This recipe brings together succulent, perfectly seasoned roast chicken and flavorful nutty wild rice, but it also harnesses the magic of cooking in a cast iron pan.

Cast Iron Cooking

Cooking in a cast iron pan imparts a unique flavor and texture to dishes. The even heat distribution and retention capabilities of cast iron ensure that, in this recipe, your chicken turns out juicy and tender while creating a beautiful, crispy exterior. The natural non-stick properties of a well-seasoned cast iron pan make cooking effortless, making it a reliable and versatile kitchen companion.

Wild Rice

In addition to its delectable taste and texture, the addition of wild rice offers numerous health benefits. Wild rice is a rich source of dietary fiber, essential minerals like magnesium and zinc, and vitamins such as B vitamins and vitamin E. Wild rice also contains antioxidants that contribute to overall well-being and immune support.

Caring for Your Cast Iron Pan

To ensure the longevity of your cast iron pan, it’s important to provide proper care. After each use, clean the pan with minimal soap (none is preferred), hot water, and a gentle brush. Thoroughly dry it to prevent rusting. Regularly seasoning your cast iron pan with oil helps maintain its non-stick surface and prevents sticking. Avoid using harsh detergents or abrasive materials that can damage the seasoning.

The Truth About Dark Meat

While dark meat chicken is often considered to be higher in fat and calories compared to white meat, it also offers several health benefits. Here are some of the advantages of consuming dark-meat chicken:

• Rich in Iron: Dark meat chicken, particularly the leg and thigh portions, contains more iron compared to white meat. Iron is crucial to producing red blood cells and the transportation of oxygen throughout the body.
• High in Zinc: Dark meat chicken is a good source of zinc, a mineral that plays a vital role in immune function, wound healing, and cell growth. Zinc also supports proper taste and smell sensation and is involved in the metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats.
• More Flavorful and Moist: Dark meat chicken is known for its richer flavor and juiciness compared to white meat.
• Vitamin B12: Dark meat chicken contains higher amounts of vitamin B12 compared to white meat. Vitamin B12 is essential for maintaining healthy nerve cells, producing DNA, and supporting the formation of red blood cells.
• Source of Selenium: Dark meat chicken provides selenium, an essential trace mineral with antioxidant properties. Selenium plays a role in immune function.

It’s important to note that while dark meat chicken has its nutritional benefits, moderation and balance are key. Additionally, remember to choose cooking methods that minimize added fats and remove the skin to reduce saturated fat content.

The cast iron chicken with wild rice is an easy dinner option for cooler months. The combination of the robust flavors from cooking in cast iron and the wholesome goodness of wild rice creates a meal that is both satisfying and nourishing. Embrace the cozy vibes of the season, savor every bite, and don’t forget to give your cast iron pan the care it deserves.

Cast Iron Chicken with Wild Rice

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2 ratings

Servings:

6

Prep:

20 minutes

Cook:

50 minutes

Total:

1 hour, 10 minutes

Ingredients:

For the Seasoning Mix:

• 2 teaspoons paprika
• 2 teaspoons dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 3/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

For the Chicken and Rice:

• 8 bone-in and skin-on chicken thighs
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided, plus more if needed
• 1 yellow onion, small dice
• 3 celery stalks, finely diced
• 4 cloves garlic cloves, grated
• 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 cup wild blend rice, such as Lundberg
• 1 3/4 cups chicken stock
• 2 tablespoons fresh, finely chopped

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350 degree F.
2. For the Seasoning Mix: In a small bowl add the paprika, thyme, lemon zest, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, mix to blend, and set near your workstation.
3. For the Chicken and Rice: Add 1 tablespoon of butter to a 12-inch cast iron pan and place over medium-high heat. When hot, add the chicken pieces, skin side down, and sear till just golden brown. Flip and sear the other side, about 3-4 minutes per side. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
4. Return the skillet to the heat and add the onion and celery. Sauté over medium heat till just starting to soften. Add the garlic and salt and cook for 30 seconds longer.
5. Once the chicken has cooled slightly, pat it with a paper towel to dry. Next, rub the seasoning mix into all sides of the chicken pieces.
6. Add the rice and remaining butter to the onions and celery and stir well to coat. Place the seasoned chicken pieces evenly over the rice. Pour the chicken broth around and between the chicken pieces. Bring the liquid to a simmer on the stove. Cover the pan with a lid or seal tightly with foil, place in the oven, and bake for about 35-40 minutes.
7. Remove the foil or lid and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until all the liquid is absorbed.
8. If serving from the skillet, gently fluff up the rice around the chicken. Garnish with fresh parsley.