Chicken Wild Rice Soup

There’s something magical about a steaming bowl of Chicken Wild Rice Soup. Imagine the rich aroma wafting through your kitchen, mingling with the savory scent of chicken and earthy wild rice, as it simmers away like a cozy hug in a bowl. The moment you take that first spoonful, the creamy texture wraps around your tongue, and you can’t help but smile. This dish is perfect for those chilly days when you want to curl up on the couch with something heartwarming.

Now, let me take you back to a time when I was trying to impress my in-laws with my culinary skills (or lack thereof). It was winter, and I decided that Chicken Wild Rice Soup would be my secret weapon. After all, who could resist such a delightful mix of flavors? As I stirred the pot, I could feel my confidence growing alongside the bubbling broth. Spoiler alert: they went back for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Wild Rice Soup

– It’s incredibly easy to make; just throw everything in one pot and let it do its thing.

– The flavor is a harmonious blend of savory chicken, nutty wild rice, and fresh vegetables that will dance on your taste buds.

– Visually stunning with vibrant colors from carrots and celery, this soup is as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.

– Versatile enough for any occasion—perfect for cozy family dinners or impressing guests at a gathering.

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Chicken Wild Rice Soup:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding.

• Wild Rice: Opt for a blend of wild rice for added texture; it adds an earthy flavor that complements the dish beautifully.

• Carrots: Freshly diced carrots add sweetness and color; don’t skimp on these little gems!

• Celery: Chopped celery brings a nice crunch and balances the soup’s creaminess perfectly.

• Onion: A diced onion adds depth to the flavor; sauté it until it’s translucent for maximum taste.

• Garlic: Minced garlic is essential for that aromatic kick; nothing says comfort food like garlic!

• Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium chicken broth for better control over salt levels while still delivering rich flavor.

• Cream: Heavy cream (or half-and-half) creates that luscious texture we all crave in a comforting soup.

• Dried Thyme and Bay Leaves: These herbs infuse the soup with warm flavors; they’re like hugs from Mother Nature!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Chicken Wild Rice Soup:

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by dicing your vegetables—carrots, celery, onion—and mincing your garlic. Chop your chicken into bite-sized pieces too. Get everything prepped because we’re going to move quickly!

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil. Once hot, toss in your chopped onions and sauté until they’re translucent—about five minutes. Then add in the garlic and stir until fragrant.

Step 3: Brown Your Chicken

Add those bite-sized chicken pieces into the pot and cook until they are lightly browned all over—approximately seven minutes should do it! Don’t worry if they’re not fully cooked yet; they’ll finish cooking later.

Step 4: Add Broth and Rice

Pour in your chicken broth along with dried thyme and bay leaves. Bring everything to a gentle boil before stirring in your wild rice. Reduce heat to low and cover for about forty-five minutes or until rice is tender.

Step 5: Stir in Cream and Vegetables

Once your rice is ready, mix in those lovely carrots and celery! Pour in heavy cream (or half-and-half) and stir well to combine everything into creamy goodness.

Step 6: Season & Serve

Taste your creation! Add salt or pepper as needed before serving hot. Transfer to bowls and enjoy this delightful Chicken Wild Rice Soup.

Now grab yourself some crusty bread or crackers because trust me—you’ll want something to soak up every last drop of this soul-soothing soup!

Perfecting Cooking Process

Start by searing the chicken to lock in those juicy flavors, then set it aside. Next, sauté your vegetables until they’re tender and aromatic before adding the wild rice and broth. Finally, return the chicken to the pot to simmer together for a deliciously harmonious blend.

Flavor Your Way

Feel free to swap out chicken for turkey or even mushrooms for a vegetarian twist. Add some spinach or kale for extra nutrition! If you’re feeling adventurous, throw in some fresh herbs like dill or thyme to elevate those flavors even more.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Chicken Wild Rice Soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, do so on low heat to prevent overcooking the rice. You can also add a splash of broth if it thickens too much.

Creating this comforting bowl of Chicken Wild Rice Soup always brings back memories of cozy family gatherings where we’d gather around the table, sharing laughter and stories over steaming bowls of goodness.

FAQs

What is Chicken Wild Rice Soup?

Chicken Wild Rice Soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, nutty wild rice, and a medley of vegetables in a creamy broth. This comforting soup is perfect for chilly days, offering both nutrition and satisfaction. Typically seasoned with herbs like thyme and parsley, this dish can vary in ingredients but often includes carrots, celery, and onions. Ideal for family gatherings or a cozy night in, Chicken Wild Rice Soup is sure to warm your heart.

How do I store leftover Chicken Wild Rice Soup?

To store leftover Chicken Wild Rice Soup, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. You can refrigerate it for up to three days or freeze it for longer storage. If freezing, consider portioning the soup into smaller containers for easy reheating. When you’re ready to enjoy your soup again, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating on the stovetop or in the microwave until hot.

Can I make Chicken Wild Rice Soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can easily make Chicken Wild Rice Soup in a slow cooker! Simply add all the ingredients—including chicken, wild rice, vegetables, and broth—to your slow cooker. Set it on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is cooked through and tender. The slow cooking process allows flavors to meld beautifully while creating a rich and satisfying soup that everyone will love.

What can I serve with Chicken Wild Rice Soup?

Chicken Wild Rice Soup pairs well with various sides that complement its creamy texture and rich flavor. Consider serving crusty bread rolls, a fresh garden salad, or even garlic bread for dipping. Some people enjoy adding crackers or cheese on the side as well. These accompaniments enhance your meal experience while making it more filling and enjoyable.

Conclusion

Chicken Wild Rice Soup stands out as a nutritious and comforting dish ideal for any occasion. With its blend of wholesome ingredients like chicken, wild rice, and seasonal vegetables, this soup not only satisfies hunger but also warms the soul. Whether you’re preparing it on the stovetop or using a slow cooker, you’ll appreciate how easy it is to create this delightful meal at home. Enjoy every spoonful of your delicious Chicken Wild Rice Soup!

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Chicken Wild Rice Soup

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• Author: Luella Webster
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 servings 1x

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Description

Chicken Wild Rice Soup is a flavorful, creamy dish that warms the soul with every spoonful. This comforting soup features tender chunks of chicken, nutty wild rice, and vibrant vegetables, all simmered together in a rich broth.

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Ingredients

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• 3 cups boneless, skinless chicken breasts (diced)
• 1 cup wild rice blend
• 2 medium carrots (diced)
• 2 stalks celery (chopped)
• 1 medium onion (diced)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 2 bay leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil

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Instructions

1. Prepare the ingredients by dicing the carrots, celery, onion, and mincing the garlic. Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces.
2. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté onions until translucent (about 5 minutes), then add garlic and cook until fragrant.
3. Add chicken pieces to the pot and brown for about 7 minutes.
4. Pour in chicken broth, thyme, bay leaves, and bring to a gentle boil. Stir in wild rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 45 minutes until rice is tender.
5. Mix in diced carrots and celery along with heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper before serving hot.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Soup
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 650mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 23g
• Cholesterol: 85mg