This Chicken Wild Rice Soup is warm, creamy, and full of flavor. It has tender chicken bits, hearty wild rice, and fresh veggies, all swimming in a delicious broth.
Every spoonful feels like a cozy hug on a chilly day! I love serving it with a slice of crusty bread—perfect for dipping. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Wild Rice: Wild rice has a unique, nutty flavor. If you can’t find it, a blend of brown rice and quinoa can work too, but it will change the texture and taste somewhat.
Chicken Broth: I like to use low-sodium chicken broth. If you’re vegetarian, vegetable broth is a great substitute, but you may want to add a bit more seasoning to enhance the flavor.
Chicken: Cooked chicken breast is common, but you can also use rotisserie chicken for convenience. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can skip the meat altogether.
Milk: I prefer using whole milk for creaminess, but feel free to use evaporated milk or a plant-based milk for a dairy-free version. Just be cautious of flavors that might alter the soup.
Thyme: Dried thyme adds a nice depth of flavor. If you have fresh thyme, use it! Just remember that fresh herbs are often stronger, so adjust the amount as needed.
How Do I Make Sure My Soup is Thick and Creamy?
To get that creamy texture without lumps, making a roux is key. Here’s how to do it right:
- After cooking your veggies, sprinkle the flour evenly over them and stir constantly for about 2 minutes. This helps cook out the raw flour taste and forms a base for your soup.
- When adding the milk, do it slowly while whisking. This prevents lumps and ensures a smooth soup.
- Keep stirring as it cooks; this helps it thicken evenly. If it gets too thick, a little extra broth or water can help adjust the consistency.
With these tips, you’ll have a delicious, creamy Chicken Wild Rice Soup that’s perfect for any day! Enjoy every bowl!
How to Make Chicken Wild Rice Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup wild rice blend (uncooked)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 1/2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups milk (whole or 2%)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 teaspoon fresh thyme)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Time Needed:
This delicious Chicken Wild Rice Soup takes about 15 minutes to prep and around 50 minutes of cooking time. In total, you’ll spend about 1 hour and 5 minutes from start to finish. It’s perfect for a cozy meal at home!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Wild Rice:
Begin by rinsing the wild rice under cold water to remove any excess starch. In a medium pot, combine the rinsed wild rice with the chicken broth. Bring it to a rolling boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer for about 40-45 minutes. Your wild rice should be tender when done, and most of the liquid should be absorbed. If you have any leftover liquid, just drain it and set the rice aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the diced onion, celery, and carrots. Cook these veggies for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften. When they smell wonderful, toss in the minced garlic and cook for another minute to let the flavor bloom!
3. Make the Roux:
Next, sprinkle the flour over the softened veggies in the pot. Stir constantly to combine everything and create a roux. Keep cooking this mixture for about 2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent any burning. This will help thicken your soup later.
4. Add the Milk:
Now it’s time to make the soup creamy! Gradually whisk the milk into the vegetable and roux mixture until it’s smooth. Keep stirring and let it cook over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes. You’ll notice it thickening up nicely!
5. Combine the Ingredients:
Once the soup has thickened, stir in the cooked wild rice and shredded chicken. Then add the thyme, parsley, salt, and black pepper to taste. Mix well, and heat the soup on low for another 5 minutes until everything is warmed through.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Chicken Wild Rice Soup is ready to be served! Remove it from heat, garnish with fresh parsley or thyme if you like, and dish it out hot. Pair it with some crusty bread for a comforting meal. Enjoy every warming bite!
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of Wild Rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice as a substitute, but keep in mind that the cooking time may need to be adjusted. Brown rice typically takes about 45 minutes to cook, so you’ll want to check it for doneness after that time.
How Can I Make This Soup Dairy-Free?
To make the soup dairy-free, simply substitute the milk with a plant-based milk like almond, oat, or coconut milk. You could also use a dairy-free cream for added richness.
Can I Freeze Leftover Soup?
Absolutely! This soup freezes well. Just let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm it gently on the stovetop.
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
You can customize this soup with additional veggies such as peas, corn, or mushrooms. Just chop them up and add them in during the sauté step for a flavorful twist!