Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. Get your baking dish or skillet ready.
Place your chicken thighs in the dish. Drizzle with olive oil, then toss with chopped shallots, garlic, thyme, sage, chili powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well so every piece is evenly coated.
Scatter the wild rice, orzo, celery, mushrooms, and Gouda cheese around the seasoned chicken. These ingredients form a hearty, flavorful base.
Evenly pour the apple cider (or wine) and chicken broth into the dish. These liquids will infuse the rice and chicken with amazing flavor as they cook.
Place small pats of butter over the chicken and around the dish. This ensures rich and juicy results.
Cover your baking dish tightly with a lid or foil. Bake for 45 minutes. Then, uncover and cook for another 15–20 minutes, or until the rice is tender, the liquid has mostly evaporated, and the chicken is golden brown.
Give the dish a quick stir to fluff the rice, then plate portions of the rice and vegetables with a piece of chicken on top.