Chicken & Wild Rice Soup

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Nutrient-packed: Full of protein, fiber, and vegetables, it’s a well-balanced, filling meal.

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just over an hour with minimal prep.

• Comfort Food: This soup is comforting, especially on cold days.

• Versatile: You can easily customize by adding other vegetables or using different broths.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Olive oil

• Onion, diced

• Carrots, diced

• Celery, diced

• Garlic, minced

• Wild rice, rinsed

• Chicken broth

• Cooked chicken (shredded or diced)

• Dried thyme

• Dried rosemary

• Salt and pepper

• Heavy cream or milk (optional for creaminess)

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

1. Sauté Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large pot. Add onion, carrots, and celery, and cook until softened, about 5–7 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for another minute.

2. Add Rice and Broth: Stir in wild rice, then add chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 40–45 minutes until the rice is tender.

3. Add Chicken and Seasonings: Add shredded chicken, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. If using, stir in cream or milk for extra creaminess and simmer for 5–10 minutes.

4. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with crusty bread.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 55 minutes

• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Use vegetable broth and skip the chicken for a veggie-friendly version.

• Add More Veggies: Try adding spinach, peas, or bell peppers.

• Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• Freezing: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months.

• Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if needed.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of wild rice?

Yes, though brown rice may take longer to cook, so adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free chicken broth.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, the soup can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Conclusion

Chicken & Wild Rice Soup is a wholesome and satisfying dish that combines tender chicken, hearty wild rice, and fresh vegetables. With minimal prep and a comforting flavor, this recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep. The optional creamy finish makes it extra comforting, and you can adjust it to suit your taste and dietary needs.