This Chicken Wild Rice Soup is warm and cozy, perfect for chilly days. Packed with tender chicken, hearty wild rice, and tasty veggies, each spoonful feels like a hug!
I love how this soup is so easy to make! Just throw everything in a pot and let it simmer while you relax. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread—yummy and comfy! 🍞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Wild Rice Blend: This grain gives the soup a wonderful nutty flavor and chewy texture. If you can’t find it, regular brown rice will work, but the cooking time will be shorter. You may also opt for quinoa for a gluten-free option.
Chicken: I love using leftover rotisserie chicken for this soup, as it adds great flavor and saves time. If you’re looking for a lighter option, shredded turkey or tofu can substitute easily.
Mushrooms: Sliced mushrooms add richness to the soup. If you’re not a mushroom fan, you can skip them or use diced zucchini for a different veggie twist.
Butter: While unsalted butter is ideal for controlling the salt content, olive oil can be used as a healthier alternative or for a dairy-free version.
How Do You Achieve a Creamy Texture in Your Soup?
Create a creamy base by making a roux! Here’s how:
- After sautéing the veggies, sprinkle flour over them. Stir well to coat and prevent lumps.
- Let it cook for a couple of minutes to take the raw taste out of the flour before whisking in milk or half-and-half.
- Stir constantly to achieve a smooth texture without any clumps. The mixture will thicken as it cooks.
How to Make Chicken Wild Rice Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup wild rice blend
- 1/2 cup chopped carrots
- 1/2 cup chopped celery
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or chopped
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk or half-and-half
- Fresh dill or parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Chicken Wild Rice Soup takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 55 minutes to cook, so in total, you’ll need around 1 hour and 10 minutes. It’s a perfect dish to make on a cozy evening or for a hearty lunch!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Rinse the Wild Rice:
Start by rinsing the wild rice under cold water to remove any debris. Drain it well — this will help with cooking and flavor.
2. Cook the Wild Rice:
In a large pot, combine the rinsed wild rice and chicken broth. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 45 minutes until the rice is tender.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
While the rice is cooking, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped carrots, celery, onion, and optional mushrooms. Sauté these veggies until they are tender, about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it’s fragrant.
4. Make the Roux:
Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables and stir well to coat everything evenly. Cook the mixture for about 2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste, stirring continuously.
5. Create the Creamy Base:
Slowly whisk in the milk or half-and-half, stirring constantly to create a smooth and creamy base. Keep stirring until the mixture thickens slightly, which should take a few minutes.
6. Combine Everything:
Now, transfer the sautéed vegetable and creamy mixture into the pot with the wild rice. Stir everything together until well combined.
7. Add Chicken and Season:
Add the cooked chicken along with the dried thyme, dried parsley, salt, and pepper to taste. Simmer the soup for another 10 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
8. Taste and Adjust:
Give your soup a taste! Feel free to adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or herbs as you prefer.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your hot Chicken Wild Rice Soup in bowls, garnished with fresh dill or parsley if you like. It’s perfect to enjoy with crusty bread or your favorite rolls!
Enjoy your comforting and hearty Chicken Wild Rice Soup!
Can I Use Different Types of Rice?
Absolutely! While wild rice adds a unique flavor and texture, you can use brown rice or even quinoa as a substitute. Just be sure to adjust the cooking times accordingly, as different grains have varying cooking durations.
How Can I Make This Soup Healthier?
To make this soup lighter, you can use low-fat milk or a plant-based milk alternative. You can also reduce the amount of butter and flour by using olive oil and a cornstarch slurry to thicken.
Can I Freeze Leftover Soup?
Yes, you can freeze Chicken Wild Rice Soup! Let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating!
What Should I Serve with This Soup?
This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or a simple side of roasted vegetables. For a heartier meal, consider serving it with a grilled cheese sandwich!