chicken wild rice recipe soup
The Best chicken wild rice recipe soup
The wild rice adds a satisfying texture and a subtle earthiness that balances the tender chicken and veggies beautifully. It’s also packed with fiber and plant-based nutrients, making it a healthier option than traditional creamy soups. Plus, it’s versatile—great for meal prep, a cozy weeknight dinner, or even a light lunch. And the best part? It’s always a hit with everyone, no matter what’s going on in the world.
Creamy Chicken Wild Rice Soup
A comforting soup with tender chicken, fluffy wild rice, and a velvety broth. Perfect for chilly evenings.
🥘Ingredients
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, diced
- 1 celery stalk, diced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup wild rice blend
- 1 cup water
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
👨🍳Directions
-
1
In a large pot, sauté onion, garlic, carrot, and celery in butter over medium heat until softened, about 5 minutes. Add chicken broth, bay leaf, and wild rice. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes. -
2
Strain the broth through a fine-mesh strainer into a clean pot, discarding solids. Return broth to the pot and add shredded chicken and peas. Simmer for 5 minutes to warm through. -
3
In a small saucepan, heat milk and heavy cream together until warm. Stir in butter and Dijon mustard until smooth. Pour the cream mixture into the soup and stir well to combine. -
4
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
🔧Equipment
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon
- Fine-mesh strainer
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
- For extra richness, stir in a splash of cream at the end.
- Use leftover cooked chicken for a quick and easy soup.
- Substitute wild rice blend with brown rice if unavailable.
Watch Video Of How Creamy Chicken Wild Rice Soup Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Chicken Wild Rice Soup
How do I adjust the broth for extra flavor?
Use a combination of vegetable broth, chicken stock, and a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce to deepen the flavor. If you prefer a richer taste, simmer the broth with a carrot, celery, and onion before adding the rice and chicken. Avoid over-seasoning, as the flavors will meld naturally over time.
Can I substitute short-grain white rice for wild rice?
No, short-grain white rice will turn mushy and lose the soup’s hearty texture. Wild rice has a firmer bite and absorbs liquid well, keeping the dish light yet satisfying. If you’re in a pinch, use a mix of wild rice and long-grain white rice, but wild rice remains the best choice for authenticity.
What’s the best way to handle fresh herbs in the soup?
Add fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or chives in the last 5 minutes of cooking so they stay bright and fragrant. If using dried herbs, add them earlier—about 10 minutes before serving. Overcooking can turn them bitter, so stir gently to distribute them evenly.
How do I ensure the chicken stays tender without falling apart?
Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces before cooking, and poach it in the broth for 10–12 minutes until just cooked through. Remove it, then return the broth to a simmer to keep the rice tender. Avoid overcrowding the pot, as this can steam the chicken instead of cooking it evenly.
