Creamy Chicken Wild Rice Soup

There’s nothing quite like a warm, creamy bowl of soup to make you feel cozy, especially on a chilly day. This Creamy Chicken Wild Rice Soup is the perfect dish to wrap yourself in comfort. With tender chunks of chicken, hearty wild rice, and a rich, creamy broth, every spoonful is packed with flavor and warmth.

This soup is not just delicious—it’s also super satisfying. The wild rice gives it a nutty taste and a slightly chewy texture, making it extra hearty. Plus, it’s loaded with wholesome ingredients like carrots, celery, and garlic, giving you a mix of flavors and nutrients in every bite.

Whether you’re looking for a comforting meal on a cold night, a hearty lunch, or a dish to impress your family, this soup is a winner. It’s easy to make, great for leftovers, and perfect for freezing. Once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again!

Why You’ll Love It

• Rich and Creamy: The combination of a smooth, velvety broth with tender chicken and wild rice makes every bite satisfying.
• Wholesome and Hearty: This soup is packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins, making it as nutritious as it is tasty.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: It stores well in the fridge and even tastes better the next day as the flavors blend together.
• Comforting and Cozy: Whether it’s a rainy day or you just need a warm, comforting meal, this soup always hits the spot.

Ingredients

For the Soup

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 1 cup wild rice, cooked
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme

For the Creamy Base

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream

Kitchen Tools Needed

Before you start cooking, gather these kitchen tools to make the process smooth and easy:

• Large pot or Dutch oven – For cooking the soup and simmering all the ingredients together.
• Small saucepan – For making the creamy base separately before adding it to the soup.
• Wooden spoon or spatula – For stirring and preventing anything from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
• Sharp knife and cutting board – To chop the veggies and shred the cooked chicken.
• Measuring cups and spoons – To ensure the right balance of ingredients.
• Whisk – To mix the creamy base and prevent lumps.

Cooking Instructions

1. Sauté the veggies – In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Stir and cook for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are soft and fragrant.
2. Add the broth and protein – Pour in the chicken broth, then add the shredded cooked chicken and wild rice. Stir everything together and season with salt, black pepper, and dried thyme. Bring to a simmer and let it cook for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.
3. Prepare the creamy base – In a separate saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute until it forms a thick paste. Slowly pour in the milk and heavy cream while whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.
4. Combine and finish – Pour the creamy base into the soup pot and stir well to combine. Let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until everything is heated through and creamy.
5. Serve and enjoy – Ladle the soup into bowls and serve warm. You can enjoy it as is or pair it with fresh bread or a simple salad for a complete meal.

This Creamy Chicken Wild Rice Soup is comfort food at its best. Whether you’re making it for yourself, your family, or a cozy gathering, it’s a dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to every bite. Try it out and see why it’s a favorite for so many!

Tips and Tricks for Success

• Use pre-cooked chicken for convenience – Rotisserie chicken or leftover roasted chicken works great and saves time.
• Cook the wild rice separately – Wild rice takes longer to cook than regular rice, so cooking it ahead of time ensures your soup doesn’t get too thick.
• Adjust the consistency – If your soup gets too thick, simply add more chicken broth or milk until it reaches your desired texture.
• Season to taste – Everyone has different flavor preferences, so taste the soup before serving and adjust the salt and pepper if needed.
• Make it ahead – This soup tastes even better the next day, as the flavors meld together. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freeze for later – This soup freezes well! Just let it cool completely, then store it in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop.

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

One of the best things about this soup is how flexible it is! Here are some ways to customize it to your taste or dietary needs:

• Chicken substitutions – Swap out the chicken for turkey if you have leftovers from a holiday meal. You can also use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
• Vegetarian option – Skip the chicken and use vegetable broth instead. Add mushrooms, chickpeas, or white beans for extra protein and texture.
• Dairy-free version – Replace the whole milk and heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based alternative like almond or oat milk. Use olive oil instead of butter.
• Gluten-free alternative – Instead of using all-purpose flour to thicken the soup, try cornstarch or gluten-free flour. Just mix it with a little water before adding it to the soup.
• Grain swaps – Wild rice gives the soup a hearty, nutty flavor, but you can use brown rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
• Extra veggies – Feel free to add more vegetables like spinach, kale, mushrooms, or bell peppers to boost the nutrition.

Serving Suggestions

This soup is hearty on its own, but pairing it with the right sides makes for an even more satisfying meal. Here are a few great options:

• Crusty bread – Serve with warm, crusty bread or garlic toast to soak up the creamy broth.
• Side salad – A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette balances out the richness of the soup.
• Grilled cheese sandwich – A classic grilled cheese pairs perfectly with the creamy texture of the soup.
• Roasted vegetables – If you want a healthier side, try roasted Brussels sprouts, carrots, or asparagus.
• Crackers or breadsticks – Perfect for dipping into the soup for added crunch.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Storing in the refrigerator:

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing instructions:

• Since this soup contains dairy, freezing can sometimes change the texture, but it’s still possible!
• Let the soup cool completely before pouring it into a freezer-safe container.
• Leave some space at the top for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.
• To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm it up slowly on the stovetop, stirring well to bring back its creamy texture.

Reheating tips:

• On the stovetop: Pour the soup into a pot and heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. If it’s too thick, add a splash of broth or milk.
• In the microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.

FAQ

1. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes! Sauté the veggies first, then add all ingredients (except the creamy base) to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Add the creamy mixture at the end and stir well before serving.

2. Can I use a different type of rice?
Absolutely! While wild rice gives the soup a unique texture, you can use brown rice, white rice, or even orzo. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

3. How do I make this soup thicker?
If you like a thicker soup, use an extra tablespoon of flour in the creamy base, or let the soup simmer longer to reduce the liquid. You can also mash some of the cooked veggies for a natural thickener.

4. Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes! This soup actually tastes better the next day as the flavors blend together. Just store it properly and reheat when ready to eat.

5. Why did my soup separate when reheating?
Dairy-based soups can sometimes separate when reheated too quickly. To fix this, heat it slowly on the stovetop, stirring frequently, and add a bit more broth or milk to bring it back to a creamy consistency.

This Creamy Chicken Wild Rice Soup is a must-try recipe that’s easy to make, full of flavor, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making a big batch for meal prep or enjoying a bowl on a cozy night, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!

Did you try this recipe? Let me know in the comments how it turned out!

Don’t forget to share your photos on Instagram and tag me @tasiahub. I’d love to see your creations!