Oh, my dears, there’s nothing quite like a steaming bowl of chicken wild rice soup to wrap you in warmth from the inside out. It’s that magical combination of tender chicken, earthy wild rice, and a creamy, flavorful broth that makes you sigh with contentment on the first spoonful. This isn’t just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl, a timeless classic that brings comfort to any table.
I remember chilly afternoons in Grandma’s kitchen, the scent of her simmering pot filling the air. She always said the secret to any good soup was patience and love, and I’ve carried that wisdom with me through years of creating my own comforting recipes. This particular soup reminds me so much of those cherished moments, where simple ingredients transformed into something truly special.
This recipe is wonderfully approachable, perfect for a cozy family dinner or sharing with friends. It’s a satisfying meal that comes together with simple ingredients, proving that a little time in the kitchen can create something truly special. My best tip for any soup is to taste as you go; your palate is your best guide!
What You Need to Make This Recipe
Oh, the joy of simple, wholesome ingredients! For this comforting chicken wild rice soup, we’ll be embracing the richness of tender chicken breasts, the earthy goodness of wild rice, and a medley of fresh vegetables like carrots, celery, and mushrooms that truly make the broth sing. A splash of heavy cream at the end brings it all together into a velvety dream. You’ll find the full list with precise measurements in the recipe card below.
How to Make chicken wild rice soup
Crafting this delightful chicken wild rice soup is a journey of warmth and flavor! We’ll begin by searing our chicken to juicy perfection before setting it aside. Next, we build our flavor foundation by sautéing a fragrant blend of vegetables, followed by creating a golden roux to thicken our comforting broth. Finally, we simmer everything together, allowing the wild rice to cook and the flavors to meld beautifully. It’s a straightforward process that yields a truly spectacular meal.
Hearty Creamy Chicken Wild Rice Soup
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Pat the chicken breasts dry and season with 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large Dutch oven or stockpot over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until lightly browned and cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F / 74°C). Remove chicken from the pot and set aside on a cutting board to cool slightly. Once cool enough to handle, shred or dice the chicken.
- Reduce heat to medium. Add 3 tbsp unsalted butter to the same pot. Once melted, add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are softened.
- Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for another 5-7 minutes, until they release their moisture and start to brown. Stir in the minced garlic, dried thyme, and dried rosemary, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Sprinkle the 1/4 cup all-purpose flour over the vegetables and stir continuously for 1-2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste, creating a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the 6 cups of chicken broth, ensuring no lumps form. Add the rinsed wild rice blend. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the wild rice is tender and has bloomed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Once the wild rice is tender, stir in the shredded or diced chicken. Add the 1/2 cup heavy cream. Stir well and heat through for 3-5 minutes, being careful not to boil the soup after adding the cream.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and black pepper as needed.
- Ladle the hot soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy!
Notes
Pro Tips for Making This chicken wild rice soup
- My Secret Trick: When sautéing your vegetables for this delightful chicken wild rice soup, always add a pinch of salt to help draw out their moisture and intensify their natural sweetness. It builds a deeper flavor foundation right from the start!
- To ensure your chicken stays wonderfully tender, avoid overcooking it in the initial searing step. It will continue to cook slightly when added back to the simmering soup, so pulling it off the heat when it’s just cooked through is key to its perfect texture.
- Don’t rush the roux! Allowing the flour and butter to cook for a couple of minutes before adding the broth helps to cook out the raw flour taste and ensures a smooth, lump-free thickening for your rich and creamy soup.
- For the most fragrant result, gently crush your dried thyme and rosemary between your fingers before adding them to the soup. This releases their essential oils, infusing the entire pot with their wonderful aromatic essence.
Fun Variations for chicken wild rice soup
I just adore how versatile soups can be, allowing us to play with flavors and ingredients! This cozy chicken wild rice soup is a fantastic canvas for your own culinary creativity.
Spice It Up
For a subtle warmth, a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce can add a lovely kick. My friend, Sarah, always asks for a little extra heat in her bowl, especially on the coldest days!
Vegetable Delights
Feel free to swap out some of the traditional veggies for others you love! Sliced bell peppers, green beans, or even some frozen peas added in the last few minutes of simmering would be delightful additions, adding extra color and nutrients to your meal.
Creaminess Alternatives
If you’re looking for a lighter touch, you could try using half-and-half or even evaporated milk instead of heavy cream. The texture will be slightly different, but the comforting essence of the soup remains.
What to Serve With chicken wild rice soup
A hearty bowl of chicken wild rice soup is certainly a meal in itself, but a few thoughtful accompaniments can truly elevate the experience and make your table feel extra special!
- Crusty Bread: My absolute favorite pairing is a warm, crusty baguette or some homemade artisan bread. It’s just perfect for soaking up every last drop of that creamy, savory broth. Grandma always insisted on fresh bread with her soups, and I completely agree!
- Simple Green Salad: A light, crisp green salad with a bright vinaigrette provides a lovely contrast to the richness of the soup. It’s a refreshing balance that makes the meal feel complete without being too heavy.
- Garlic Knots: For something a little more indulgent, warm garlic knots brushed with butter and herbs are an incredible addition. They bring an extra layer of savory goodness that pairs beautifully with the earthy tones of this comforting soup.
How to Store chicken wild rice soup
It’s always a delight when there are leftovers of a comforting meal like this chicken wild rice soup! Proper storage ensures you can savor those delicious flavors another day.
Fridge Storage
Allow the soup to cool completely to room temperature within two hours of cooking. Transfer it to airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. I always find it tastes even better the next day as the flavors have had more time to meld!
Freezer Friendly
This soup freezes beautifully! Once completely cooled, pour it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving a little headspace. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating for Freshness
To reheat, gently warm the soup on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. If it seems a little thick, you can add a splash of chicken broth or milk to reach your desired consistency. My personal tip is to give this chicken wild rice soup a fresh sprinkle of parsley right before serving to revive those bright flavors!
Nutritional Benefits
This comforting chicken wild rice soup isn’t just delicious; it also offers wonderful nourishment! The lean chicken provides a great source of protein, while the wild rice blend contributes wholesome fiber and essential minerals. Combined with a medley of fresh vegetables, it’s a hearty and satisfying meal that truly embodies my belief that a treat can be both comforting and genuinely good for you.
FAQs
Is wild rice actually rice?
Despite its name, wild rice is technically a semi-aquatic grass seed, not a true rice. It’s known for its chewy texture, nutty flavor, and impressive nutritional profile, making it a fantastic addition to any hearty, comforting soup.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can easily adapt this recipe to be vegetarian by omitting the chicken and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. For added protein, consider incorporating cannellini beans or sautéed chickpeas into your delicious meal.
Can I use cooked chicken?
Yes, if you have leftover cooked chicken, you can certainly use it to save time! Simply shred or dice about 3 cups of cooked chicken and add it to the soup during the last 15-20 minutes of simmering, ensuring it’s heated through before serving.
Why is my wild rice still hard?
If your wild rice remains hard, it likely needs more cooking time. Wild rice can vary, so always check the package instructions. Ensure the soup is simmering gently, and if needed, add a little extra broth or water and continue cooking until tender.
Conclusion
And there you have it, my dear friends! This Hearty Creamy Chicken Wild Rice Soup is more than just a recipe; it’s an invitation to create warmth, comfort, and delicious memories in your own kitchen. I truly hope this recipe brings as much joy to your home as it does to mine. Remember, every stirred pot, every chopped vegetable, every shared bowl is a testament to the love you pour into homemade food. So go on, gather your ingredients, and let the magic of this comforting soup fill your home with its irresistible aroma and heartfelt deliciousness. Happy cooking!
