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Chicken Wild Rice Soup is a hearty, comforting dish perfect for chilly days or whenever you need a warm, satisfying meal. This creamy soup is packed with tender chicken, nutty wild rice, and a mix of vegetables, all simmered in a flavorful broth.
Whether you’re serving it for lunch or dinner, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Let’s get started!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Hearty and Filling
This soup is a complete meal because of the combination of chicken, wild rice, and vegetables.
Comforting and Cozy
Perfect for cold weather or when you need a bowl of comfort.
Nutritious
Packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins from wholesome ingredients.
Simple Ingredients
Made with kitchen staples and fresh produce, it’s budget-friendly and easy to make.
Versatile
Great for meal prep or freezing for later.
Crowd-Pleaser
Everyone will enjoy the rich, creamy flavor of this classic soup.
What to Serve with Chicken Wild Rice Soup
- Crusty Bread: A warm slice of crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy broth.
- Side Salad: Pair with a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
- Crackers: Serve with buttery crackers for added crunch.
- Cheese Platter: Complement the soup with a small cheese board for a special touch.
- Roasted Vegetables: Add extra veggies to your plate with a side of roasted asparagus or Brussels sprouts.
- Garlic Bread: A flavorful garlic bread makes an excellent side for this soup.
Chicken Wild Rice Soup
A creamy and comforting soup loaded with tender chicken, wild rice, and vegetables, perfect for a cozy meal.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup uncooked wild rice
- 1 pound cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works great)
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish).
Instructions
- Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add the Rice and Broth: Stir in the wild rice, thyme, rosemary, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Simmer for 35-40 minutes, or until the rice is tender.
- Thicken the Soup: In a small bowl, whisk the flour with a few tablespoons of the heavy cream to form a smooth paste. Stir the paste into the pot, followed by the remaining cream. Simmer for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the soup thickens.
- Add the Chicken: Stir in the shredded chicken and cook until heated through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm.
Notes
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat.
- Freezing: This soup freezes well. Cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently.
- Customizations: Add mushrooms, spinach, or peas for extra vegetables. Swap the chicken for turkey if desired.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut milk or a dairy-free creamer instead of heavy cream.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use pre-cooked rice?
Yes, stir in cooked wild rice during the last 10 minutes of cooking to warm it through.
How do I make the soup gluten-free?
Replace the flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free thickening agent.
What can I use instead of chicken?
You can substitute turkey, tofu, or even chickpeas for a different protein option.
Wrapping it up
Chicken Wild Rice Soup is a warm and satisfying dish perfect for any time of year. With its creamy texture, hearty ingredients, and rich flavor, this soup is sure to become a regular in your meal rotation.
Serve it with your favorite sides, and enjoy a comforting bowl of goodness that everyone will love!