If you are craving a bowl of warmth that feels like a big, cozy hug, this Chicken and Wild Rice Soup Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a harmonious blend of tender chicken, hearty wild rice, and vibrant vegetables gently simmered in a rich, creamy broth that will instantly soothe your soul. Whether you want to whip up something simple for a weeknight or meal prep for the week ahead, this soup checks all the boxes for comfort, flavor, and wholesome satisfaction.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows an overhead view of various cooking ingredients laid out on a white marbled surface. In the center, there is a clear glass bowl filled with shredded light-colored cooked chicken. Surrounding it are white bowls holding chopped orange carrots, chopped white onions, and chopped green celery. There is also a white bowl filled with dark wild rice. Near the bottom, there are two clear measuring jugs, one with a light yellow liquid and the other with white cream, plus a small white pitcher filled with white flour. A small white bowl contains four cubes of pale yellow butter. In addition, there are three small metal containers holding ground seasonings and minced garlic. Two wooden salt and pepper grinders are placed towards the top left corner of the image. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The ingredients for this soup are delightfully straightforward but each one plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color that make this Chicken and Wild Rice Soup Recipe so special. From the aromatic vegetables to the nutty wild rice and creamy broth, every element is a star in its own right.

1 tbsp olive oil or butter: Adds richness and helps soften the vegetables without sticking.
1 medium onion, diced: Provides a sweet, savory base that deepens the soup’s flavor.
2 carrots, sliced: Bring a bright, natural sweetness and vibrant color.
2 celery stalks, sliced: Add subtle earthiness and gentle crunch.
3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the soup with a warm, aromatic punch.
1 tsp dried thyme: Offers a delicate herbal note that complements the chicken perfectly.
½ tsp dried rosemary: Adds a fragrant, pine-like aroma for extra depth.
6 cups chicken broth: The flavorful liquid base that carries all the ingredients together.
1 cup uncooked wild rice blend: Gives the soup its signature nutty flavor and chewy texture.
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced: Protein-packed and tender, making the soup hearty and filling.
1 cup milk or half-and-half: Creates the creamy, luscious consistency that makes this soup irresistible.
2 tbsp all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening): Helps achieve a velvety thickness, perfect if you prefer a richer texture.
Salt and black pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing all those complex flavors into balance.
Optional garnish: fresh parsley: Adds a pop of color and fresh brightness to finish the dish.

How to Make Chicken and Wild Rice Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Start by warming your olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onions, sliced carrots, and celery, stirring continuously as they soften and release their natural sweetness – about 5 to 6 minutes. This step is where your soup builds its savory foundation, so let those veggies shine!

Step 2: Add the Aromatics

Next, stir in minced garlic, dried thyme, and rosemary. Cook everything for about 30 seconds until fragrant, careful not to let the garlic brown. These herbs will layer in wonderful warmth and complexity that make the soup so satisfying.

Step 3: Simmer with Broth and Rice

Pour in the chicken broth and add the uncooked wild rice blend. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and let it gently simmer for 40 to 45 minutes. The wild rice will transform here, softening while infusing the broth with its nutty character.

Step 4: Add Chicken and Creaminess

Once the rice is tender, add the cooked chicken and allow the soup to simmer for another 5 minutes, warming through. Stir in the milk or half-and-half to create that creamy texture you love. If you want a thicker soup, whisk the flour with ¼ cup water to make a smooth slurry, then stir it into the pot and simmer for another 5 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 5: Season and Serve

Finish by seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Your chicken and wild rice soup is now ready to be ladled into bowls and enjoyed!

How to Serve Chicken and Wild Rice Soup Recipe

The image shows a white bowl filled with creamy mushroom soup. The soup has thick, light beige cream as a base, with slices of brown mushrooms spread all over the top. There are small green herbs sprinkled lightly on the surface. The texture looks smooth but with visible pieces of mushrooms and a slight orange oil sheen around the edges. A spoon is partially inside the bowl on the left side. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh parsley does wonders to brighten each bowl of this hearty soup. You might also consider a little cracked black pepper on top or even a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for a silky finish.

Side Dishes

Pair this comforting soup with crusty bread for dipping or a simple green salad to keep the meal balanced. Garlic toast or a warm biscuit also make excellent companions, soaking up every last drop of that luscious broth.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special touch, serve the soup in hollowed-out mini pumpkins or bread bowls. Ladle the soup just before serving to keep the bread crisp and the presentation eye-catching. You can also garnish with a few toasted pumpkin seeds or a light shower of grated Parmesan for added texture and flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Chicken and Wild Rice Soup Recipe keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 4 days. Just be sure to cool it before storing it in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Freezing

You can freeze the soup without the cream or milk to preserve texture and flavor. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge and stir in the cream after reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup has thickened too much, stir in a splash of broth or water to loosen it back up to your preferred consistency.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of wild rice?

Absolutely! Brown rice can be used as a substitute, though it cooks a bit faster and has a milder flavor. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to avoid overcooking.

Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?

Yes, simply replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the chicken. You can add extra beans or mushrooms for protein and texture to keep it hearty.

Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken?

Definitely! Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut and adds incredible flavor. Just shred or dice it before adding it to the soup in the final steps.

How thick should the soup be?

The thickness is up to you! The flour slurry helps add body, but the soup should remain spoonable and comforting rather than too thick or gloopy.

Do I need to rinse the wild rice before cooking?

Rinsing isn’t necessary but can help remove any dust or debris. Just drain it well if you choose to rinse before adding to the pot.

Final Thoughts

Nothing beats the cozy goodness of this Chicken and Wild Rice Soup Recipe on a chilly day or when you want a nourishing meal without fuss. It’s simple to make, bursting with flavors, and ready to become your go-to comfort food. Give it a try—you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!