This cozy Chicken Wild Rice Soup is a warm hug in a bowl! It’s packed with tender chicken, hearty wild rice, and fresh veggies, all simmered together in a creamy broth.
I love how simple it is to make! Just throw everything in one pot and let it bubble away. Perfect for chilly days when you need something easy and comforting! 🥣
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Wild Rice: This is the star! A blend gives a nice texture and flavor. If you can’t find wild rice, you can use brown rice or a rice blend, but be aware that cooking times may differ.
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best for tenderness. If you’re short on time, rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut—you’ll just need to add it towards the end to heat through.
Vegetables: The combination of onion, carrots, and celery adds great flavor. Feel free to toss in other veggies like bell peppers or spinach if you have them on hand!
Heavy Cream: This adds richness, but you can substitute half-and-half to lighten it up a bit. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, coconut milk works well too, giving a different flavor but still creamy.
How Do I Get the Perfect Texture in My Soup?
Texture is key for a comforting soup! Here are a few tips:
- Cook wild rice until it’s tender but still chewy; this helps it hold up in the soup.
- Sautéing the veggies before adding to the pot enhances their flavor and keeps them slightly crisp.
- When adding flour to the cream, whisk it well to prevent lumps, which is crucial for a smooth texture in your soup.
- Let the soup simmer a bit after adding the cream mixture—that’ll help thicken it up nicely.
With these tips, you’re well on your way to a delightful Chicken Wild Rice Soup! Enjoy every spoonful!
Chicken Wild Rice Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 cup wild rice blend (usually wild rice mixed with long grain white rice)
- 8 cups chicken broth (preferably low sodium)
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 2 teaspoons fresh thyme)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried sage (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Time Needed:
This hearty soup takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 55 minutes to cook, making it a total of around 1 hour and 10 minutes to prepare. You’ll end up with a warm, comforting meal that can serve a crowd or provide delicious leftovers!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Wild Rice:
Start by rinsing the wild rice under cold water to remove any debris. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the rinsed wild rice and chicken broth. Bring this mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 40-45 minutes, or until the rice is tender but still has a slight chew to it. This gives the soup a wonderful texture!
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
While the rice is cooking, heat the olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion, carrots, celery, and mushrooms. Sauté these veggies for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become tender and fragrant.
3. Add Flavorful Ingredients:
Next, stir in the minced garlic, dried thyme, sage (if using), and season with salt and pepper. Cook the mixture for another minute until everything is well combined and the garlic is aromatic.
4. Cook the Chicken:
Now, add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the skillet with the veggies. Stir to combine and cook for about 5-8 minutes, or until the chicken is no longer pink and cooked through.
5. Combine the Rice and Chicken Mixture:
Once the wild rice is ready, add the chicken and vegetable mixture from the skillet into the pot with the rice and broth. Stir well to combine all the flavors!
6. Thicken the Soup:
In a small bowl, whisk together the flour and heavy cream until smooth to create a slurry. Stir this creamy mixture into the soup pot. Keep cooking over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the soup thickens slightly, which should take about 5-7 minutes. This’ll give the soup that delightful creamy texture!
7. Final Taste Test:
Before serving, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed to make it just right for your palate.
8. Serve and Enjoy!
Garnish the soup with fresh chopped parsley for a delightful pop of color. Serve your warm Chicken Wild Rice Soup in bowls, ideally with some crusty bread on the side to soak up all that deliciousness!
Enjoy this comforting and satisfying Chicken Wild Rice Soup that warms both your heart and your kitchen!
Can I Use Other Types of Rice?
Absolutely! While wild rice is traditional for this recipe, you can substitute it with brown rice or even basmati rice. Just be aware that the cooking times may vary, so check the rice package for guidance on how long to cook it.
How Can I Make This Soup Healthier?
If you’re looking to lighten it up, consider using low-fat milk or a dairy-free option like almond milk in place of heavy cream. You can also increase the amount of vegetables to add more nutrients and fiber without many extra calories.
Can I Freeze Leftover Soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. Freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop.
What Can I Serve with Chicken Wild Rice Soup?
This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread, rolls, or a fresh salad. It also goes well with grilled cheese sandwiches for a comforting, hearty meal!