If you’re craving a bowl of warmth and comfort, nothing quite hits the spot like this Chicken and Wild Rice Soup Recipe. It’s a heartwarming mix of tender shredded chicken, nutty wild rice, and a creamy, savory broth dotted with vibrant vegetables. This soup isn’t just delicious; it’s the kind of dish that wraps you in cozy feelings, perfect for chilly evenings or when you simply want a satisfying meal that tastes like a hug in a bowl.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple yet carefully chosen to create the perfect balance of flavors and textures in your soup. Each element lends its unique touch — from the aromatic trio of onion, carrot, and celery adding depth, to the creamy finish that rounds out the hearty ingredients beautifully.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Used to gently sauté vegetables, bringing out their sweetness.
- ½ cup onion, carrot & celery, diced: Classic soup base known as mirepoix, enhancing flavor and body.
- 4 cups chicken broth: The liquid gold that forms the rich, savory foundation.
- 1 cup wild rice: Adds a nutty flavor and chewy texture that makes this soup uniquely satisfying.
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded: Provides protein and tender bites throughout the soup.
- ½ cup cream: Brings luscious creaminess and a gentle finish to the broth.
- 1 tsp thyme: A fragrant herb that brightens and elevates the overall taste.
How to Make Chicken and Wild Rice Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrot, and celery. Cook them gently until they soften and become fragrant, around 5 minutes. This step releases natural sweetness and builds the backbone of your soup’s flavor.
Step 2: Add Broth and Wild Rice
Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle boil. Stir in the wild rice, then cover the pot and reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook for about 35 minutes or until the rice is tender but still has a nice chew. This slow cooking allows the rice to absorb all the savory flavors.
Step 3: Stir in Chicken and Cream
Once the rice is perfectly cooked, add the shredded cooked chicken and thyme to the pot. Pour in the cream and stir everything together. Keep the soup on low heat and let it simmer for another 5 minutes so the flavors meld beautifully without boiling the cream. This creates a warm, creamy texture that makes every spoonful decadent.
How to Serve Chicken and Wild Rice Soup Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra touch, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or a pinch of cracked black pepper on top. A dusting of grated Parmesan cheese can also add a delightful umami kick that pairs perfectly with the creamy broth.
Side Dishes
This soup shines when paired with a crusty baguette or warm dinner rolls for dipping. A crisp, green salad with a light vinaigrette can add contrast and freshness to round out your meal in a delightful way.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the soup in small bread bowls for a rustic presentation that’s both charming and edible. You can also ladle it into individual rustic mugs or stoneware bowls for a cozy, inviting touch when entertaining guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. Stored in the refrigerator, it will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it a perfect make-ahead meal for busy weekdays.
Freezing
This Chicken and Wild Rice Soup Recipe freezes wonderfully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 3 months. Since the soup contains cream, be sure to stir well when reheating to bring back the smooth texture.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the soup gently over medium-low heat on the stove, stirring occasionally. Adding a splash of broth or water can help if it thickens too much. Avoid boiling to keep the cream from curdling and maintain the soup’s luscious consistency.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of cooked chicken breast?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are even more flavorful and tender, which will add richness to the soup. Just cook them thoroughly before shredding and adding to the soup.
Is wild rice necessary, or can I substitute it?
Wild rice lends a unique nutty flavor and chewy texture, but you can substitute with brown rice or long-grain rice for a different but still tasty twist.
Can I make this soup dairy-free?
Yes, simply replace the cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative. This will keep the soup creamy while accommodating dietary preferences.
How long does it take to cook the wild rice?
Typically, wild rice takes about 35 to 45 minutes to become tender. It’s important to simmer it covered so it cooks evenly and absorbs the broth’s flavors.
Can I prepare this soup in a slow cooker?
Definitely! Start by sautéing the vegetables, then combine all ingredients except the cream in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Add the cream in the last 30 minutes of cooking for best results.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken and Wild Rice Soup Recipe is truly one of those special dishes that feels homemade love in every bite. Whether you’re looking for a hearty lunch, cozy dinner, or an easy meal prep option, this soup delivers on flavor, comfort, and simplicity. Give it a try—you’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe again and again, especially when you need that soul-warming goodness.
Print
Chicken and Wild Rice Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A hearty and creamy chicken and wild rice soup filled with tender wild rice, succulent shredded chicken, and a medley of sautéed vegetables simmered in flavorful chicken broth. This comforting American classic is perfect for chilly days and meal prepping.
Ingredients
Soup Base
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ cup onion, carrot & celery, diced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 tsp thyme
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup wild rice
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- ½ cup cream
Instructions
- Sauté Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrot, and celery, and sauté until they soften and become fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Broth and Rice: Pour in the chicken broth and stir in the wild rice along with the thyme. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, until the wild rice is tender, approximately 35 minutes.
- Incorporate Chicken and Cream: Stir in the shredded cooked chicken and the cream. Continue simmering the soup gently for an additional 5 minutes to heat through and blend the flavors.
Notes
- This soup freezes well, making it an excellent option for meal prep and future quick meals.
- Cook the wild rice separately ahead of time to reduce cooking time if desired.
- You can substitute cream with a dairy-free alternative to make it lactose-free.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
