When the air gets chilly and the leaves start to fall, there’s nothing more satisfying than a warm bowl of chicken wild rice soup. Creamy, hearty, and brimming with flavor, this classic recipe is a go-to comfort food that’s as nourishing as delicious. Whether you're cooking for the family or meal-prepping for the week, this soup will surely impress. Let’s dive into this easy-to-follow recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Wild Rice Soup
- Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with lean protein from chicken, fiber-rich wild rice, and a medley of vegetables, this soup offers a balanced meal in every bowl.
- One-Pot Wonder: Save time and dishes with this simple, one-pot recipe.
- Customizable: Easily adapt to your dietary needs—swap out the cream for a dairy-free version or add extra veggies for a nutrient boost.
- Perfect for Leftovers: Flavors deepen overnight, making it even tastier the next day.
Ingredients You'll Need
For the Soup Base:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
For the Protein and Grains:
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great!)
- 3/4 cup uncooked wild rice
For the Broth:
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup water
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Creaminess (Optional):
- 1 cup heavy cream or coconut milk for a dairy-free option
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour or cornstarch (for thickening)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Sauté the Vegetables
Heat olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
2. Add the Broth and Rice
Pour in chicken broth and water, then stir in wild rice, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, reduce to a simmer and cover. Let it cook for 45-50 minutes, or until the rice is tender.
3. Incorporate the Chicken
Add the shredded chicken to the pot and stir well. Allow it to simmer for 10 minutes, letting the flavors meld together.
4. Create the Creamy Finish (Optional)
In a small bowl, whisk together cream and flour until smooth. Slowly stir this mixture into the soup and cook for 5-10 minutes, or until the soup thickens slightly. For a dairy-free version, simply stir in coconut milk.
5. Adjust and Serve
Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Remove the bay leaf before serving. Ladle into bowls and enjoy with a slice of crusty bread or a simple side salad.
Pro Tips for the Best Chicken Wild Rice Soup
- Save Time: Use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken or leftover turkey for a quick protein addition.
- Go Fresh: Fresh herbs like parsley or dill are added before serving to elevate the flavor.
- Batch Cook: Double the recipe and freeze leftovers in individual portions for busy weeknights.
Perfect Pairings
Chicken wild rice soup pairs beautifully with:
- A side of buttery garlic bread
- A crisp Caesar salad
- A warm slice of homemade cornbread
Final Thoughts
Chicken wild rice soup isn’t just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl. It’s simple enough for weeknight dinners yet impressive enough to serve at gatherings. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or put your own spin on it, this soup is bound to become a household favorite.
Ready to try it? Bookmark this recipe, grab your ingredients, and let the aroma of comfort fill your kitchen!
