Creamy chicken and wild rice soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for cold days or when you’re craving something hearty yet soothing. This soup combines tender chicken, nutty wild rice, and a rich, creamy broth infused with herbs and vegetables. Follow this detailed recipe for a bowl of pure comfort, along with tips for the best results.
1. Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup Recipe
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 medium carrots, diced
- 3 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup uncooked wild rice blend
- 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great)
For the Creamy Base
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk (or half-and-half for a richer soup)
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Heat olive oil or butter in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5–7 minutes, stirring often, until the vegetables are softened.
Add minced garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 1–2 minutes, allowing the herbs to release their aroma.
Step 2: Cook the Wild Rice
Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a boil. Stir in the uncooked wild rice blend. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the rice simmer for 35–40 minutes, or until tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Add the Chicken
Once the rice is cooked, stir in the shredded chicken. Let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to combine.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Base
In a separate saucepan, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux.
Slowly whisk in the milk (or half-and-half) until smooth. Cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Slowly pour the creamy base into the soup, stirring as you add it. Simmer the soup for another 5–10 minutes over low heat until thickened and creamy. Adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the soup into bowls and serve warm. Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
2. Tips For Perfect Chicken and Wild Rice Soup
Use a Wild Rice Blend
Wild rice adds a nutty and chewy texture to the soup. A blend of wild rice and other grains (like brown rice) ensures a balanced texture and quicker cooking time compared to pure wild rice.
Sauté Vegetables First
Sautéing the onion, carrots, and celery before adding liquid enhances their natural sweetness and creates a flavorful base for the soup.
Don’t Overcook the Wild Rice
Wild rice has a firm texture, and overcooking it can make it mushy. Check the rice 5–10 minutes before the recommended cooking time to ensure it stays tender but firm.
Use Rotisserie Chicken for Convenience
Shredded rotisserie chicken saves time and adds extra flavor to the soup. If you’re cooking chicken from scratch, poach or roast it for the best results.
Thicken Gradually
When making the roux, whisk the flour and butter thoroughly to avoid lumps. Adding the milk slowly ensures a smooth, creamy base for the soup.
Simmer, Don’t Boil, After Adding the Cream
Boiling the soup after adding the creamy base can cause it to curdle. Keep the heat low and stir gently as it thickens.
3. What To Eat With Chicken and Wild Rice Soup
This hearty soup pairs well with sides that complement its creamy texture and rich flavors.
Crusty Bread: A warm loaf of crusty bread or a baguette is perfect for dipping into the creamy broth.
Buttery Biscuits: Soft, flaky biscuits add a touch of indulgence and pair beautifully with the soup’s creamy consistency.
Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup.
Roasted Vegetables: Oven-roasted broccoli, asparagus, or brussels sprouts make a healthy and flavorful side dish.
Cheese Board: A small cheese platter with mild cheeses, crackers, and fruits can serve as a delicious appetizer or accompaniment.
4. How To Store & Reheat Leftovers
Storing
Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
Reheating
On the Stovetop: Transfer the soup to a pot and reheat over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of milk or water if the soup has thickened too much in the fridge or freezer.
In the Microwave: Place the soup in a microwave-safe bowl, cover with a microwave-safe lid or plate, and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between intervals, until warm.
Creamy chicken and wild rice soup is a versatile and satisfying dish that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. With the instructions and tips in this article, I hope that you will can enjoy a bowl of delicious chicken and wild rice soup at home. Serve it up with your favorite sides and savor the warmth in every bite!
