Chicken Wild Rice Soup

Chicken Wild Rice Soup is a warm and comforting dish that brings together tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and a delightful blend of wild rice. This soup is perfect for chilly days or simply when you want something cozy and filling. It's easy to make and sure to please everyone at the table.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is great because it combines wholesome ingredients that are good for you. The creamy texture and rich flavor make this soup irresistible. Plus, it’s a one-pot meal, which means less cleanup for you! Making this soup is a wonderful way to enjoy a homemade meal that warms your heart and fills your belly.

How to Make Chicken Wild Rice Soup

Making Chicken Wild Rice Soup is simple and straightforward. Here’s everything you need to know to create this delicious meal.

Ingredients:

4 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 cup yellow onion, chopped (1/4-inch pieces)
1 cup celery, chopped (1/4-inch pieces)
1 cup carrot, chopped (1/4-inch pieces)
1 tablespoon minced garlic
2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves
2 tablespoons chicken bouillon powder (or 2 cubes)
1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
8 cups unsalted chicken stock (2 quarts)
1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts (2 large chicken breasts)
21 ounces condensed cream of chicken soup (two 10.5-ounce cans)
1 cup wild rice blend (I used RiceSelect Royal Blend)
1 cup heavy cream

Directions:

In a large 8-quart stockpot on medium-high heat, add the unsalted butter, chopped yellow onion, chopped celery, chopped carrots, minced garlic, fresh thyme leaves, chicken bouillon powder, poultry seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Sauté for 5 to 7 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
Turn the heat down to medium-low and add the chicken stock and boneless skinless chicken breasts to the stockpot. Gently boil the chicken for 20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
Remove the chicken to a plate to cool slightly before shredding it using two forks or your hands.
To the stockpot, with the chicken removed, add the condensed cream of chicken soup and stir to incorporate the condensed soup into the chicken broth.
Bring the liquids in the stockpot to a boil and add the wild rice blend. Cover the pot with the lid and reduce the heat to low. Cook the rice for 20 minutes.
Once the wild rice is cooked, turn off the heat, remove the lid, and add the shredded chicken and heavy cream. Stir to combine. You can garnish your soup with some additional fresh thyme leaves.

How to Serve Chicken Wild Rice Soup

Serve your Chicken Wild Rice Soup warm. It pairs well with crusty bread or a simple side salad. You can add a sprinkle of fresh thyme leaves on top for an extra touch of flavor and presentation.

How to Store Chicken Wild Rice Soup

To store leftovers, let the soup cool completely and transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to store it longer, freeze it in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months. Just reheat it gently on the stove when you are ready to enjoy it again!

Tips to Make Chicken Wild Rice Soup

Make sure to not overcook the wild rice; it should be tender but still have a slight chew.
You can use leftover cooked chicken if you want to save time.
For a healthier option, use low-fat cream or a dairy-free substitute.

Variation

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the soup! Mushrooms or spinach can make great additions. You could also add some spices, like cayenne pepper, for an extra kick.

FAQs

1. Can I use brown rice instead of wild rice?
Yes, you can, but bear in mind that cooking times may vary. Brown rice usually takes longer to cook.

2. Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free bouillon and cream of chicken soup.

3. Can I make this soup in advance?
Absolutely! This soup actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just store it in the fridge and reheat when you're ready to serve.

Enjoy this warm and satisfying Chicken Wild Rice Soup! It's sure to be a hit at your table!