Indulging in a warm bowl of Creamy Chicken Wild Rice Soup can turn any chilly day into a cozy experience. This comforting soup is rich and satisfying, featuring tender chicken, hearty wild rice, and a medley of vegetables bathed in a luscious creamy broth. With each spoonful, you get layers of flavors that complement one another beautifully, making it a dish you’ll want to share with loved ones again and again.
Why We Love This Creamy Chicken Wild Rice Soup Recipe
This Creamy Chicken Wild Rice Soup is more than just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl. The delightful combination of flavors and textures makes it a frontrunner for any dinner table. You’ll find that the tender chicken and wild rice create a satisfying base, while the creaminess adds comfort that feels just like home. Plus, it’s straightforward to make and provides plenty of servings, allowing you to enjoy leftovers or even share with friends. When you make this soup, you’re not just cooking; you’re creating warmth, nourishment, and fond memories.
Ingredients for Creamy Chicken Wild Rice Soup
To prepare this delightful soup, you will need the following ingredients:
Soup Base
- 1 tablespoon of extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 medium carrots, finely chopped (about 1 cup)
- 2 ribs of celery, finely chopped
- 1 shallot or small yellow onion, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced or pressed
- 1 teaspoon of poultry seasoning
- ½ teaspoon of dried thyme
- 6 cups of chicken stock or broth (plus more for reheating if needed)
- 1 pound of chicken breasts (about 2 breasts), sliced in half
- 1 cup of wild blend rice
Cream Mixture
- ½ cup of butter or vegan butter
- ½ cup of gluten-free flour blend
- 2 cups of milk (any kind)
How to Make Creamy Chicken Wild Rice Soup Directions
To create the perfect bowl of Creamy Chicken Wild Rice Soup, follow these straightforward steps:
- Sauté the Vegetables: Begin by heating the olive oil in a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the finely chopped carrots, celery, and shallots or onions. Season them with a pinch of salt and pepper. Allow the vegetables to cook for 8 to 10 minutes until they soften. If you want the vegetables to soften faster, cover the pot with a lid and add a splash of broth or water.
- Add Seasonings: Once the vegetables are tender, incorporate the minced garlic, poultry seasoning, and dried thyme into the pot. Sauté for an additional 1 to 2 minutes until the mixture becomes fragrant.
- Cook the Chicken: Pour in the chicken stock or broth and increase the heat to high. Cover the pot and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, add the halved chicken breasts, cover again, and reduce the heat to low. Let the chicken simmer for 10 to 12 minutes, or until it is fully cooked. Once done, remove the chicken and place it on a cutting board to cool. Shred or chop the chicken once it’s cool enough to handle, then refrigerate until needed.
- Cook the Rice: Now, stir in the wild rice into the pot with the broth and vegetables. Cover and let it simmer for 20 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice is al dente and has absorbed those delicious flavors.
- Prepare the Cream Mixture: About 10 minutes before the rice is finished, melt the butter in a separate saucepan over medium heat. Add the gluten-free flour and whisk it for 1 minute to combine. Gradually pour in the milk while whisking to create a smooth, creamy sauce. Switch to a spatula and continue cooking for another 1 to 2 minutes until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat and cover to keep warm.
- Combine the Ingredients: Slowly whisk the creamy mixture into the pot with the broth and rice. Add the shredded chicken to the pot and let it simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring often, until the soup thickens and the rice is tender. Taste your soup and adjust the seasoning as necessary. Finally, remove the pot from the heat and allow the soup to rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Wild Rice Soup
Serving your Creamy Chicken Wild Rice Soup can elevate the experience even further. You can ladle it into deep bowls for a heartwarming presentation. Sprinkle some fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, on top for a hint of color and extra flavor. Pair your soup with thick slices of crusty bread or a simple salad for a well-rounded meal. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider topping your creamy soup with croutons for added texture. This dish is a fantastic centerpiece for both casual family dinners and cozy gatherings with friends.
Expert Tips: Creamy Chicken Wild Rice Soup
To make your Creamy Chicken Wild Rice Soup even more irresistible, here are some expert tips:
- Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality chicken stock or broth for a richer flavor. Homemade broth can elevate the soup significantly.
- Veggie Variations: Don’t hesitate to include additional vegetables, such as peas or spinach, to boost the nutritional value and flavors of your soup.
- Cooking the Rice: Ensure that you do not overcook the wild rice. It should still have a slight bite to it when fully cooked.
- Creaminess Control: For a lighter soup, reduce the amount of butter and cream mixture you add, or substitute with low-fat alternatives.
- Storage: This soup can become thicker over time as the rice absorbs the liquid. When reheating, just add a little broth or milk to restore its creaminess.
How to Store Creamy Chicken Wild Rice Soup
To store your Creamy Chicken Wild Rice Soup, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 to 4 days. If you want to preserve it for a longer time, consider freezing portions. Just ensure to label the containers with dates. When you’re ready to enjoy the soup again, simply reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or milk to help regain its creamy texture.
Variations of Creamy Chicken Wild Rice Soup
Getting creative with your Creamy Chicken Wild Rice Soup can lead to delightful variations. Here are a few ideas you can try:
- Mushroom Addition: Sauté sliced mushrooms along with the other vegetables for an earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with the chicken and rice.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like rosemary or dill to add a fragrant twist to the traditional recipe. Fresh herbs can enhance the overall taste and aroma.
- Spice It Up: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add chili flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the silky soup for a warm kick.
- Creamy Vegan Version: Use plant-based chicken substitutes and non-dairy milk and butter to create a vegan-friendly alternative. The flavor profiles can still shine through with the right seasonings.
- Coconut Cream Twist: For a tropical touch, consider using coconut milk instead of regular milk for a unique and creamy flavor.
FAQ
What makes Creamy Chicken Wild Rice Soup so special?
This soup stands out due to its rich creaminess, tender chicken, and hearty wild rice, along with the comforting blend of herbs and spices. It’s a complete meal that warms the soul.
Can I substitute the wild rice with white rice?
Yes, while wild rice has a unique flavor and texture, you can use white rice or brown rice as an alternative. Just be mindful of cooking times, as they differ from wild rice.
Is this soup suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! Creamy Chicken Wild Rice Soup stores well in the refrigerator or freezer, making it a perfect option for meal prep. Just remember to add extra liquid when reheating.
How can I make it gluten-free?
To make this soup gluten-free, use gluten-free flour for the creamy mixture and ensure your chicken stock is gluten-free as well.
What can I serve with my Creamy Chicken Wild Rice Soup?
You can serve your soup with crusty bread, a light salad, or even crackers for dipping, all of which pair wonderfully with the rich flavors of the soup.
Creamy Chicken Wild Rice Soup
Ingredients
Soup Base
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 medium carrots, finely chopped (about 1 cup)
- 2 ribs celery, finely chopped
- 1 shallot or small yellow onion, chopped
- to taste Salt and pepper
- 3 cloves garlic, minced or pressed
- 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- 6 cups chicken stock or broth (plus more for reheating if needed)
- 1 pound chicken breasts, sliced in half (about 2 breasts)
- 1 cup wild blend rice
Cream Mixture
- ½ cup butter or vegan butter
- ½ cup gluten-free flour blend
- 2 cups milk (any kind)
Instructions
Preparation
- Heat olive oil in a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add the finely chopped carrots, celery, and shallots or onions. Season with salt and pepper, and cook for 8 to 10 minutes until softened.
- Add minced garlic, poultry seasoning, and dried thyme. Sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant.
Cooking Chicken
- Pour in chicken stock or broth and increase heat to high. Cover and bring to a boil.
- Once boiling, add halved chicken breasts, cover again, and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 10 to 12 minutes until fully cooked.
- Remove chicken and shred or chop it after cooling. Refrigerate until needed.
Cooking Rice
- Stir in wild rice to the pot with the broth and vegetables. Cover and simmer for 20 to 30 minutes until al dente.
Cream Mixture Preparation
- Melt butter in a separate saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in gluten-free flour for 1 minute.
- Gradually pour in milk while whisking to make a creamy sauce. Cook 1 to 2 minutes until thickened, then remove from heat.
Combine and Serve
- Whisk the creamy mixture into the pot with broth and rice. Add shredded chicken and let simmer for 5 minutes until thickened.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary. Allow soup to rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving.
Send me this recipe!
Just enter your email below and get it sent straight to your inbox!