Chicken wild rice soup is the warm hug your taste buds have been waiting for. Imagine a steaming bowl of creamy goodness filled with tender chicken, earthy wild rice, and vibrant veggies that dance in your mouth. This comforting dish has a way of wrapping you in its cozy embrace, making it perfect for chilly nights or whenever you need a little extra love.
Growing up, my family had a tradition of making this soup whenever someone felt under the weather. The aroma wafting through the kitchen was like magic, promising warmth and healing. Now, every spoonful brings back those cozy memories, making you feel like you’re snuggled up by the fireplace on a frosty evening.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This chicken wild rice soup is an easy recipe that comes together in just one pot
- The flavor profile bursts with savory goodness complemented by herbs and spices
- Its rich, creamy texture makes it visually appealing and utterly comforting
- Perfect for weeknight dinners or as a hearty meal prep option!
I still remember the first time I made this recipe for friends; they practically licked their bowls clean!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
-
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 breasts work well here; feel free to use thighs if you prefer dark meat.
-
Wild Rice Blend: Use a mix of wild and white rice for a delightful texture contrast and nutty flavor.
-
Carrots: Fresh carrots add sweetness; dice them small so they cook evenly and blend into the soup.
-
Celery: Crunchy celery brings freshness; choose bright green stalks for the best flavor.
-
Onion: A medium yellow onion will do wonders in building your soup’s base flavor.
-
Garlic: Use 3-4 cloves of minced garlic to enhance the aromatic experience—never skimp on garlic!
-
Chicken Broth: Low-sodium broth is ideal for controlling salt levels while maintaining rich flavor.
-
Cream or Coconut Milk: For creaminess, use heavy cream or coconut milk for a dairy-free twist.
-
Dried Thyme and Bay Leaf: These herbs will infuse wonderful flavors into your soup; don’t forget to remove the bay leaf before serving!
-
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to elevate all the flavors in this comforting bowl of happiness.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Cook the Chicken: In a large pot over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil. Once hot, add your chicken breasts seasoned with salt and pepper. Sear until browned on both sides, about 5 minutes per side.
Add Vegetables & Aromatics: Toss in diced onions, carrots, celery, and garlic once the chicken is cooked through. Sauté until fragrant, about 3-4 minutes—your kitchen will smell divine!
Pour in Broth & Rice: Pour in about 6 cups of low-sodium chicken broth along with your wild rice blend. Stir everything together and bring to a rolling boil before reducing heat to simmer.
Add Creaminess & Herbs : After about 30 minutes of simmering (or when the rice is tender), pour in heavy cream or coconut milk along with dried thyme and bay leaves. Stir gently to combine all those glorious flavors.
Final Touches : Taste for seasoning and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Remove bay leaves before serving—and try not to eat straight from the pot!
Enjoy this beautiful bowl of chicken wild rice soup garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Now that you’ve got it all down, your kitchen is ready for some serious comfort food action! This chicken wild rice soup will have everyone singing your praises!
You Must Know
- This chicken wild rice soup is a hug in a bowl, perfect for chilly nights
- The combination of savory chicken and earthy wild rice creates a comforting aroma that fills your kitchen
- It’s a dish that brings memories of family gatherings and heartwarming conversations
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by sautéing onions and garlic until fragrant, then add diced chicken to brown. Next, stir in wild rice before adding broth, ensuring even cooking and flavor infusion.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out vegetables based on seasonality or personal taste—carrots, celery, or even spinach can enhance your soup’s character.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover chicken wild rice soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat to preserve texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve maximum flavor in your chicken wild rice soup, always use fresh herbs
- If you have leftovers, consider freezing them for quick meals later
- When reheating, add a splash of broth to revive flavors
Sharing this recipe takes me back to my grandmother’s kitchen, where the smell of her chicken wild rice soup always brought the family together around the table.
FAQ
What type of rice is best for chicken wild rice soup?
Use a mix of wild rice and long-grain white rice for optimal texture and flavor balance.
Can I make chicken wild rice soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! This soup tastes even better when made a day in advance, allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
What can I serve with chicken wild rice soup?
Serve with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal that satisfies every craving.
Chicken Wild Rice Soup
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
Description
Chicken wild rice soup is the ultimate comfort food, offering a creamy blend of tender chicken, earthy wild rice, and vibrant vegetables. This hearty dish warms you from the inside out, making it perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings. With its rich flavors and nostalgic aroma, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your home.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
- 1 cup wild rice blend
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or coconut milk
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium heat, drizzle olive oil and sear seasoned chicken breasts for about 5 minutes per side until browned.
- Add diced onions, carrots, celery, and minced garlic. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in chicken broth and stir in wild rice blend. Bring to a boil before reducing heat to simmer.
- After 30 minutes, add heavy cream or coconut milk along with thyme and bay leaf. Stir gently.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Remove bay leaf before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
