Chicken and Wild Rice Soup

Introduction

Nothing beats a bowl of hearty soup on a cold, crisp day, and Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup is the perfect answer when you’re craving something warm, satisfying, and full of flavor. This rich, creamy soup blends tender chicken, earthy wild rice, and a savory broth, creating a dish that feels like a comforting hug in a bowl. The addition of vegetables adds both texture and freshness, while the creamy base makes every spoonful feel indulgent. If you’re looking for a soul-warming meal that’s easy to prepare and sure to impress, this recipe is your ticket to culinary bliss.

Why You’ll Love Chicken and Wild Rice Soup

There’s something magical about the combination of creamy soup and wild rice, and this Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup takes that magic to the next level. The wild rice offers a chewy, nutty flavor that perfectly balances the creamy, rich broth. On top of that, the chicken adds protein, making this dish not only delicious but also filling. What’s more, this soup is incredibly versatile—you can easily adjust it to your tastes or dietary preferences. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy weeknight dinner or bringing it to a family gathering, this soup will quickly become a favorite.

And let’s not forget the best part—it’s easy to make! With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a comforting bowl of soup that looks and tastes like it came straight from a gourmet kitchen. Plus, the leftovers are perfect for reheating, so you can enjoy this comforting dish for days to come.

Pair this creamy chicken and wild rice soup with these flavorful Teriyaki Chicken Skewers for a perfect, balanced meal that’s both satisfying and delicious.

Ingredients

To make this creamy chicken and wild rice soup, gather the following ingredients:

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 carrots, peeled and diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
6 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
1 ½ cups wild rice, rinsed
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works great)
1 cup heavy cream
2 teaspoons dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried sage
1 bay leaf
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons butter
1/3 cup all-purpose flour (for thickening)
1 cup frozen peas (optional)

Necessary Tools for Chicken and Wild Rice Soup

You won’t need too many tools to prepare this soup, just some basic kitchen equipment:

Large pot or Dutch oven
Wooden spoon or spatula
Knife and cutting board
Measuring cups and spoons
Ladle

Ingredient Swaps and Additions

If you’re looking to customize this recipe, here are some ingredient swaps and additions you can make:

Rice Substitutes: If you’re not a fan of wild rice or can’t find it, try substituting with brown rice or even quinoa for a different texture and flavor.
Cream Alternatives: For a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut milk. Alternatively, you could use whole milk for a less creamy but still delicious soup.
Vegetable Additions: Feel free to toss in extra vegetables to the soup. Mushrooms, parsnips, or even spinach can add more color and flavor.
Herb Variations: While thyme and sage are classic choices for this soup, you can switch it up with rosemary, parsley, or even tarragon for a unique twist.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that we have everything ready, let’s dive into how to make this Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup:

Sauté the Veggies: Start by heating olive oil over medium heat in a large pot or Dutch oven. Once the oil is hot, add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and the onions are translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
Add the Broth and Rice: Pour in the chicken broth and add the wild rice. Stir in the dried thyme, sage, and bay leaf. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Let it simmer for about 40-45 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed much of the liquid.
Make the Creamy Base: In a separate pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about 2 minutes until it forms a paste. Gradually add the heavy cream while continuously whisking to create a smooth, lump-free mixture. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce has thickened slightly.
Combine and Simmer: Once the rice is cooked, remove the bay leaf and stir in the creamy flour mixture into the soup, followed by the shredded chicken. Continue to simmer for another 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until everything is well combined and heated through.
Final Touches: If you’re adding peas, stir them in at the very end, allowing them to warm up in the soup. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.

Pro Tips for Success of Chicken and Wild Rice Soup

Don’t skip the sauté step: Sautéing the vegetables first is key to developing the flavors of the soup. It helps bring out the sweetness of the carrots, onions, and celery, creating a rich, flavorful base.
Use homemade broth: If you have the time, use homemade chicken broth for the best flavor. The depth of flavor from a well-made broth will make your soup stand out.
Make it ahead of time: This soup tastes even better the next day, so feel free to make it in advance. The flavors have time to meld together and intensify, giving you even more comfort in a bowl.
Thicken the soup to your liking: If you prefer a thicker soup, simply add a bit more flour to the cream mixture. You can also let the soup simmer longer to allow more liquid to evaporate.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup with a slice of crusty bread or a side of garlic bread for dipping. A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette pairs perfectly with this rich, creamy soup, providing a nice balance of flavors. If you’re in the mood for something more substantial, try serving the soup with a grilled cheese sandwich or a warm, toasted baguette.

Storing and Reheating Chicken and Wild Rice Soup

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This soup also freezes well, so feel free to portion it out into freezer-safe containers for a quick meal later on. To reheat, simply warm the soup over low heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally to prevent the cream from separating.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a general breakdown of the nutritional information for one serving of Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup (assuming 6 servings):

Calories: 350
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 20g
Sodium: 700mg
Sugar: 4g

Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

FAQs – Chicken and Wild Rice Soup

Can I use white rice instead of wild rice?
Yes, white rice can be used, though wild rice adds a unique flavor and texture. Keep in mind that white rice may cook more quickly than wild rice, so adjust your cooking time accordingly.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! To make this soup in a slow cooker, sauté the vegetables and add everything (except for the cream, butter, and flour) to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours, then finish with the creamy mixture and shredded chicken.
Can I make this soup gluten-free?
Yes! You can substitute the flour with a gluten-free thickening agent like cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to check the chicken broth and other ingredients for any gluten-containing additives.
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well. Just be aware that the creaminess may change a little upon reheating, but it will still be delicious. For best results, freeze the soup without the cream and add it after reheating.
Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken?
Rotisserie chicken is a perfect choice for this soup! It’s quick, easy, and adds great flavor. Shred the chicken and add it to the soup when combining the creamy mixture.

Conclusion

Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply enjoy a comforting meal at home, Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup is a surefire way to satisfy your cravings. With its rich, creamy base, tender chicken, and nutty wild rice, it’s a soup that checks all the boxes for flavor, texture, and ease of preparation. Serve it up on a chilly day, or keep a batch in your freezer for a quick and cozy meal whenever you need it. No matter when you enjoy it, this soup will always hit the spot.

For another take on this comforting classic, check out this delicious Chicken Wild Rice Soup recipe from Iowa Girl Eats, perfect for cozy meals all year long.

Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup