Hearty Chicken and Wild Rice Soup Recipe for Comfort

There’s something magical about a steaming bowl of chicken and wild rice soup that warms the soul. Picture this: rich, hearty broth infused with tender chicken, earthy wild rice, and a medley of vibrant vegetables—each spoonful is like a hug in a bowl. The aroma wafts through your kitchen, coaxing family members out of their rooms like moths to a flame.

I remember the first time I made this soup. It was one of those chilly evenings when even my cat decided to hibernate under the blankets for warmth. As I stirred the pot, memories flooded back from my childhood—sitting at my grandmother’s table, savoring her version of chicken soup on snowy days. That comforting feeling is what I strive for with this recipe. You’ll want to whip it up on cold nights or when you need a little love in your life.

Ingredients for chicken and wild rice soup

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts for this recipe, but feel free to adjust based on your guest count.
• Wild Rice Blend: Look for a mix that combines brown and wild rice for added texture and flavor.
• Carrots: Use fresh carrots; they bring sweetness and color to the soup.
• Celery: Chop up some celery for that signature crunch and aromatic base.
• Onion: A medium onion adds depth; sauté it until it’s translucent for the best results.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves are essential; they elevate the flavor profile beautifully.
• Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness; homemade is always the tastiest option!
• Dried Thyme: This herb brings an earthy note that complements the other flavors perfectly.
• Pepper and Salt: Season lightly at first; you can always adjust later!

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

How to Make chicken and wild rice soup

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare Your Chicken

Start by chopping your boneless, skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. In a large pot over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil and throw in the chicken pieces. Season with salt and pepper. Cook them until they’re golden brown on all sides—about five minutes should do.

Step 2: Sauté Your Veggies

Once the chicken is cooked through, toss in chopped onions, carrots, and celery (the holy trinity of soups). Stir them around for about five minutes until they soften up and become friends with each other.

Step 3: Add Garlic

Now it’s time to make things aromatic! Add minced garlic and dried thyme to the pot. Let it simmer together for another minute—you want that garlic smell wafting through your kitchen!

Step 4: Pour in Broth

Add six cups of low-sodium chicken broth along with your wild rice blend. Bring everything to a gentle boil; then reduce the heat to low so it can simmer away happily while you resist the temptation to stir every minute (don’t worry if you peek).

Step 5: Simmer Away

Let it all cook together for about thirty minutes or until the wild rice is tender but still has a slight chewiness—you want those grains to be perfectly cooked.

Step 6: Serve It Up!

Taste your creation! Adjust seasonings as needed before serving hot bowls garnished with fresh parsley if you’re feeling fancy. Transfer to plates and let everyone dive in!

This heartwarming chicken and wild rice soup isn’t just food; it’s an experience—a delightful adventure that transports you back home no matter where you are. Grab a spoon (and maybe a napkin because things might get messy) and enjoy every comforting bite!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing onions and garlic to build flavor, then add your chicken to sear it nicely. While that’s cooking, prepare your wild rice separately until tender. Combine everything with broth and veggies for a harmonious blend of flavors.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out wild rice for quinoa or brown rice if you prefer. Add some chopped spinach or kale for extra nutrients, or throw in a splash of lemon juice for a bright finish that dances on your palate.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. To reheat, simply warm on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if it thickens too much for your liking.

There was this one time I made chicken and wild rice soup for my family during a snowstorm. Everyone gathered around the table, spoons in hand, and their smiles were so bright you’d think I’d just served them gold!

FAQs

What ingredients do I need for chicken and wild rice soup?

To make chicken and wild rice soup, you’ll need a few key ingredients. Start with cooked chicken, preferably shredded or diced, and wild rice. You’ll also need vegetables such as carrots, celery, and onions for flavor. Don’t forget garlic, chicken broth, and herbs like thyme for seasoning. For creaminess, consider adding heavy cream or milk. This simple combination creates a comforting dish perfect for any occasion.

How long does it take to prepare chicken and wild rice soup?

Preparing chicken and wild rice soup typically takes about 15 minutes of prep time followed by around 30 to 40 minutes of cooking. If you’re using pre-cooked chicken, the process becomes even quicker. The wild rice needs time to cook properly, so plan on simmering the soup until it’s tender. Overall, you can have a delicious bowl ready in under an hour.

Can I make chicken and wild rice soup in advance?

Yes, you can definitely make chicken and wild rice soup in advance! It actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to freeze it, ensure it cools completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Just remember that the texture of the rice may change slightly upon reheating.

What can I serve with chicken and wild rice soup?

Chicken and wild rice soup pairs well with various sides that enhance its flavors. Consider serving it with crusty bread or homemade biscuits for dipping. A fresh green salad adds a nice crunch and balances the richness of the soup. You could also provide crackers or cheese on the side for extra texture. These options will create a satisfying meal everyone will enjoy.

Planning your weekly menu? Browse these dinner recipe ideas for more delicious inspiration.

Conclusion for chicken and wild rice soup

In summary, chicken and wild rice soup is a delightful dish that combines comforting flavors with nutritious ingredients. With just a few simple steps, you can create a meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. Whether you make it ahead of time or enjoy it fresh on a chilly day, this recipe offers warmth in every bowl. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite vegetables or seasonings to make it your own!

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Chicken and Wild Rice Soup

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• Author: Sophie
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

Warm your soul with this comforting chicken and wild rice soup, featuring tender chicken, earthy wild rice, and vibrant vegetables in a rich broth.

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Ingredients

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For the Soup:

• 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup wild rice blend (brown and wild rice mix)
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. 1. Prepare the Chicken:
2. Chop the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces.
3. Heat a splash of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
4. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown on all sides (about 5 minutes).
5. 2. Sauté the Vegetables:
6. Add the chopped onions, carrots, and celery to the pot.
7. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
8. 3. Add Garlic and Thyme:
9. Stir in the minced garlic and dried thyme.
10. Cook for an additional minute until aromatic.
11. 4. Pour in Broth:
12. Add the low-sodium chicken broth and wild rice blend to the pot.
13. Bring to a gentle boil; then reduce heat to low and let simmer.
14. 5. Simmer:
15. Allow the soup to simmer for about 30 minutes or until the wild rice is tender yet slightly chewy.
16. 6. Serve:
17. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
18. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Soup
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 75mg