Soups & Stews

Chicken And Wild Rice Soup

Name: Chicken And Wild Rice Soup
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 65 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb (450g) chicken thighs, boneless; 2 cups (400g) wild rice; 4 cups (1L) chicken broth; 1 large onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 sprigs fresh thyme; 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream; 1 tsp (5g) dried basil; 1/2 tsp (2g) salt; 1/4 tsp (1g) black pepper; 2 tbsp (30g) unsalted butter; 2 cups (250g) mixed vegetables (such as carrots, celery, and peas)

By Xenia Larkin · June 19, 2026 · Soups & Stews

Prep20 min

Cook45 min

Total65 min

Serves6

There's nothing quite like a warm, comforting bowl of soup to soothe the soul on a chilly day. As a home cook, I'm always on the lookout for recipes that are not only delicious but also easy to make and satisfying for my family. That's why I'm excited to share with you my recipe for Chicken And Wild Rice Soup, a dish that checks all those boxes and more.

This recipe is a staple in our household, and for good reason. The combination of tender chicken, flavorful wild rice, and aromatic spices creates a rich and comforting broth that's sure to become a favorite. Plus, it's incredibly easy to make and can be ready in under an hour, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.

One of the things I love about this recipe is its versatility. You can customize it to suit your tastes by adding your favorite vegetables or spices, and it's also a great way to use up any leftover chicken or rice you may have on hand. Whether you're a busy parent looking for a quick and easy meal solution or a foodie looking to try something new, this recipe is sure to please.

So, what makes this recipe so special? For starters, the use of wild rice adds a unique and nutty flavor to the soup that's hard to replicate with regular rice. The chicken is also cooked to perfection, with a tender and juicy texture that's sure to satisfy even the pickiest of eaters. And let's not forget the aromatics - the combination of onion, garlic, and thyme creates a depth of flavor that's simply amazing.

Whether you're looking for a comforting and delicious meal to warm up on a cold day or a quick and easy solution for a busy weeknight dinner, this Chicken And Wild Rice Soup recipe is sure to become a new favorite. So, let's get started and see just how easy it is to make this delicious and satisfying soup!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is easy to make and can be ready in under an hour, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
The combination of tender chicken, flavorful wild rice, and aromatic spices creates a rich and comforting broth that's sure to become a favorite.
This recipe is versatile and can be customized to suit your tastes by adding your favorite vegetables or spices.
It's a great way to use up any leftover chicken or rice you may have on hand, making it a budget-friendly option.
The use of wild rice adds a unique and nutty flavor to the soup that's hard to replicate with regular rice.
The chicken is cooked to perfection, with a tender and juicy texture that's sure to satisfy even the pickiest of eaters.

Why This Recipe Works

The key to this recipe's success lies in its simplicity and the use of high-quality ingredients. By using wild rice and cooking the chicken to perfection, we're able to create a rich and flavorful broth that's full of depth and character. The addition of aromatics like onion and garlic adds an extra layer of flavor, while the thyme provides a subtle and savory note that ties everything together.

Another important aspect of this recipe is the cooking technique. By sautéing the onion and garlic before adding the chicken and rice, we're able to create a flavorful foundation that sets the stage for the rest of the dish. The use of chicken broth and cream also helps to add richness and creaminess to the soup, making it a true comfort food classic.

Finally, the resting time is crucial in allowing the flavors to meld together and the soup to thicken slightly, making it a hearty and satisfying meal that's sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. By following these simple steps and using high-quality ingredients, we're able to create a truly delicious and comforting soup that's perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

When it comes to making this Chicken And Wild Rice Soup, the ingredients are just as important as the technique. That's why I've chosen a selection of high-quality ingredients that will add depth and flavor to the dish. From the tender chicken to the nutty wild rice, every component plays a crucial role in creating a rich and comforting broth.

As you're shopping for the ingredients, be sure to look for high-quality chicken broth and heavy cream, as these will add a richness and creaminess to the soup that's hard to replicate with lower-quality ingredients. You'll also want to choose fresh and flavorful aromatics like onion and garlic, as these will add a depth of flavor that's essential to the dish.

1 lb (450g) chicken thighs, bonelessI prefer to use boneless chicken thighs for this recipe, as they're easier to cook and more tender than bone-in thighs. You can also use chicken breast if you prefer, but be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
2 cups (400g) wild riceWild rice is a key ingredient in this recipe, and it's worth seeking out high-quality rice for the best flavor and texture. Be sure to rinse the rice before cooking to remove any impurities.
4 cups (1L) chicken brothI like to use low-sodium chicken broth for this recipe, as it allows me to control the amount of salt that goes into the dish. You can also use homemade broth if you have it on hand.
1 large onion, choppedA large onion adds a depth of flavor to the soup that's essential to the dish. Be sure to chop it finely so that it cooks evenly and quickly.
3 cloves garlic, mincedGarlic is a key aromatic in this recipe, and it's worth using high-quality garlic for the best flavor. Be sure to mince it finely so that it distributes evenly throughout the soup.
2 sprigs fresh thymeFresh thyme adds a subtle and savory flavor to the soup that's hard to replicate with dried thyme. Be sure to chop it finely before adding it to the pot.
1/2 cup (120ml) heavy creamHeavy cream adds a richness and creaminess to the soup that's essential to the dish. You can also use half-and-half or whole milk if you prefer a lighter version.
1 tsp (5g) dried basilDried basil adds a subtle and slightly sweet flavor to the soup that complements the thyme and garlic perfectly. Be sure to use high-quality basil for the best flavor.
1/2 tsp (2g) saltSalt is essential to bringing out the flavors in the soup, and it's worth using high-quality salt for the best flavor. Be sure to taste and adjust as you go to avoid over-salting the dish.
1/4 tsp (1g) black pepperBlack pepper adds a subtle and slightly spicy flavor to the soup that complements the other ingredients perfectly. Be sure to use freshly ground pepper for the best flavor.
2 tbsp (30g) unsalted butterUnsalted butter adds a richness and creaminess to the soup that's essential to the dish. Be sure to use high-quality butter for the best flavor.
2 cups (250g) mixed vegetables (such as carrots, celery, and peas)Mixed vegetables add a pop of color and flavor to the soup that's hard to replicate with a single vegetable. Be sure to choose high-quality vegetables that are fresh and flavorful.

Ingredients for Chicken And Wild Rice Soup

Equipment You’ll Need

Large heavy pot or Dutch ovenSharp chef's knifeInstant-read thermometerMeasuring cups and spoonsWooden spoon or silicone spatulaFine-mesh strainer

How to Make Chicken And Wild Rice Soup

1
In a large heavy pot or Dutch oven, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until it's softened and translucent, about 8-10 minutes.
2
Add the minced garlic and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
3
Add the chicken to the pot and cook, stirring occasionally, until it's browned on all sides and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside to rest.
4
Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter to the pot and stir to melt. Add the wild rice and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes, until it's lightly toasted.
5
Add the chicken broth, dried basil, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a boil.
6
Reduce the heat to low and simmer, covered, for 40-45 minutes, until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
7
Add the mixed vegetables to the pot and cook, stirring occasionally, until they're tender, about 5-7 minutes.
8
Add the heavy cream to the pot and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook, stirring occasionally, until it's heated through, about 2-3 minutes.
9
Add the cooked chicken back to the pot and stir to combine. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is heated through, about 2-3 minutes.
10
Use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken, which should reach 165 F (74 C) in the thickest part of the breast.
11
Remove the pot from the heat and let it rest, covered, for 10-15 minutes, before serving.
12
Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed before serving. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs, if desired.

Expert Tips

Use high-quality ingredients, such as fresh and flavorful aromatics, to add depth and flavor to the soup.
Don't overcook the chicken, as it can become dry and tough. Instead, cook it until it's just done and then let it rest.
Use a variety of mixed vegetables to add a pop of color and flavor to the soup.
Don't skip the step of toasting the wild rice, as it adds a nutty flavor and texture to the soup.
Use low-sodium chicken broth to control the amount of salt that goes into the dish.
Let the soup rest, covered, for 10-15 minutes, before serving, to allow the flavors to meld together and the soup to thicken slightly.
Garnish with chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or thyme, to add a bright and fresh flavor to the soup.
Serve with a side of crusty bread or crackers to mop up the flavorful broth.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the chicken, which can make it dry and tough.
Not toasting the wild rice, which can result in a bland and uninteresting flavor.
Using low-quality ingredients, such as stale or flavorless aromatics, which can affect the overall flavor of the soup.
Not letting the soup rest, covered, for 10-15 minutes, before serving, which can result in a soup that's not fully flavored and textured.
Not adjusting the seasoning as needed, which can result in a soup that's too salty or bland.
Not using a variety of mixed vegetables, which can result in a soup that's lacking in color and flavor.

Variations and Substitutions

Add some heat to the soup by incorporating diced jalapenos or red pepper flakes.
Use different types of protein, such as sausage or bacon, to add a smoky flavor to the soup.
Add some creaminess to the soup by incorporating sour cream or Greek yogurt.
Use different types of rice, such as white or brown rice, to change the texture and flavor of the soup.
Add some brightness to the soup by incorporating freshly squeezed lemon juice or zest.
Use different types of herbs, such as parsley or rosemary, to add a fresh and fragrant flavor to the soup.
Add some texture to the soup by incorporating crunchy elements, such as chopped nuts or seeds.

What to Serve With Chicken And Wild Rice Soup

This Chicken And Wild Rice Soup is a hearty and satisfying meal that's perfect for a cold winter's day. Serve it with a side of crusty bread or crackers to mop up the flavorful broth, or with a green salad for a light and refreshing contrast.

Some other ideas for serving this soup include serving it with a swirl of creamy sour cream or a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or thyme. You could also serve it with a side of roasted vegetables, such as carrots or Brussels sprouts, for a well-rounded and nutritious meal.

Crusty breadGreen saladRoasted vegetablesCrackersSour creamChopped fresh herbs

Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating

This Chicken And Wild Rice Soup can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. To refrigerate, let the soup cool completely and then transfer it to an airtight container. To freeze, let the soup cool completely and then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag.

When reheating the soup, be sure to heat it slowly and gently, stirring occasionally, until it's hot and steaming. You can reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave, depending on your preference. If the soup has thickened too much during storage, you can thin it out with a little bit of chicken broth or water.

It's also worth noting that this soup is a great candidate for meal prep, as it can be made in large batches and portioned out into individual servings. Simply reheat and serve as needed, and enjoy the convenience of having a healthy and delicious meal ready to go.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use regular rice instead of wild rice?

While regular rice can be used as a substitute, it will change the flavor and texture of the soup. Wild rice has a nutty flavor and chewy texture that's hard to replicate with regular rice.

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, this soup can be made in a slow cooker. Simply brown the chicken and cook the vegetables in a skillet, then transfer everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

Can I freeze the soup and reheat it later?

Yes, this soup can be frozen and reheated later. Simply let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Can I add other ingredients to the soup?

Yes, this soup is a great candidate for customization. Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, proteins, or spices to make it your own.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, this soup is gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions. Just be sure to check the ingredients of the chicken broth and cream to ensure they are gluten-free.

Can I make this soup in advance?

Yes, this soup can be made in advance and refrigerated or frozen for later use. Simply reheat and serve as needed.

How do I store the soup?

This soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. Be sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.

Can I reheat the soup in the microwave?

Yes, this soup can be reheated in the microwave. Simply heat it in 30-second increments, stirring between each heating, until it's hot and steaming.

Is this soup suitable for a crowd?

Yes, this soup is a great option for a crowd. Simply multiply the ingredients as needed and cook in a large pot or slow cooker.

Can I add noodles or other starches to the soup?

Yes, you can add noodles or other starches to the soup if you prefer. Simply cook them according to package instructions and add them to the soup before serving.

The Full Recipe

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