You know those days when you just want something warm, hearty, and full of goodness—but you also want to feel a little healthy? Enter chicken and wild rice soup, the answer to your fall and winter cravings (and honestly, rainy spring days too). It’s a hug in a bowl, packed with protein, veggies, and nutty wild rice, and it only gets better as it sits.
Here’s the wild part: this is the one soup my whole family actually asks for (even the “not a soup person” types). IMO, if a soup can do that, it’s doing something right. And yes, it’s great for meal prep, sick days, and impressing anyone who thinks soup is boring.
Why Chicken and Wild Rice Soup is a Modern Classic
If you’ve never had chicken and wild rice soup before, you’re in for a treat. The real magic is in the texture and layers of flavor:
- Wild rice stays pleasantly chewy, adding a nutty depth regular rice just can’t touch.
- Shredded chicken makes it hearty and protein-packed.
- Carrots, celery, and onion—the classic mirepoix—give a sweet and savory base.
- A touch of cream or milk (optional) brings everything together for that restaurant-style finish.
Pro tip: It’s naturally gluten-free, filling, and easy to tweak for whatever you have on hand.
Why Wild Rice Is the Secret Ingredient
Let’s face it: regular chicken soup can get a little… same-y. But swap in wild rice? Whole new level! Wild rice (technically a grass, not a true rice) is packed with antioxidants, fiber, and a unique, earthy taste.
IMO, wild rice is like the “cool friend” who shows up at the soup party and makes everyone more interesting. Plus, it holds up well in soup, so no mushy leftovers.
Ingredients for Chicken and Wild Rice Soup
You probably have most of these already! Here’s what you’ll need:
- Chicken breasts or thighs (boneless, skinless; cooked and shredded)
- Wild rice blend (or pure wild rice, but blends are easier to find)
- Carrots, celery, onion (classic soup trio)
- Garlic (because duh)
- Chicken broth (homemade or store-bought)
- Thyme, parsley, bay leaf (fresh or dried)
- Olive oil or butter
- Salt and pepper
- Milk or cream (optional, for creamy version)
- Lemon juice (for brightness—just trust me!)
Optional add-ins: mushrooms, spinach, kale, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.
How to Make Chicken and Wild Rice Soup (Step-by-Step)
1. Sauté Your Base
- Heat olive oil in a big pot over medium heat.
- Add diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook 5–7 minutes until softened.
- Add minced garlic and cook 1 more minute.
2. Simmer With Rice and Seasonings
- Stir in 1 cup wild rice blend and toss to coat.
- Add 6 cups chicken broth, 1–2 bay leaves, and a few sprigs of thyme.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 35–45 minutes, until rice is tender.
3. Add Chicken and Finish
- Stir in 2–3 cups shredded cooked chicken.
- Pour in 1/2 cup milk or cream (optional, for a creamy version).
- Season with salt, pepper, and a splash of lemon juice to taste.
- Remove bay leaves and thyme stems.
- Simmer 5 more minutes to heat through.
4. Taste and Serve
- Adjust seasoning, ladle into bowls, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve hot!
Nutrition Facts Table: Chicken and Wild Rice Soup
Here’s an average breakdown per serving (based on 6 hearty servings):
| Ingredient | Calories | Carbs (g) | Protein (g) | Fat (g) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chicken (3 oz) | 140 | 0 | 27 | 3 |
| Wild rice (1/4 cup dry) | 50 | 11 | 2 | 0 |
| Carrots (1/2 cup) | 25 | 6 | 0.5 | 0 |
| Celery (1/2 cup) | 8 | 2 | 0.4 | 0 |
| Onion (1/4 cup) | 16 | 3.7 | 0.3 | 0 |
| Chicken broth (1 cup) | 10 | 1 | 1 | 0 |
| Olive oil (1 tsp) | 40 | 0 | 0 | 4.5 |
| Milk/Cream (2 tbsp) | 20 | 1.5 | 1 | 1.5 |
| Total per serving | 309 | 25.2 | 32.2 | 9 |
Key takeaway:
This soup is protein-packed, full of fiber, and low in fat. The wild rice keeps you satisfied, and the veggies bring all the vitamins you need—perfect for a balanced meal.
Common Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them)
- Rice too mushy? Wild rice takes longer than white—don’t try to rush it, or it’ll go soft.
- Soup too thick? Just add more broth until you reach the perfect consistency.
- Lacking flavor? Don’t forget salt, herbs, and especially the squeeze of lemon at the end!
- Chicken dry? Add cooked chicken at the end, just to warm through.
Side note:
If you use rotisserie chicken, this soup is even easier (and the extra flavor is next level).
Creative Variations and Pro Tips
- Add mushrooms for an earthy twist.
- Make it dairy-free by skipping the milk/cream, or use a splash of coconut milk for creaminess.
- Boost greens by stirring in a few handfuls of spinach or kale at the end.
- Freeze for later: Soup (without dairy) freezes great for up to 3 months!
Pro tip:
IMO, soup always tastes better the next day. Let the flavors marry in the fridge and thank yourself tomorrow.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with crusty bread or a side salad.
- Top with fresh herbs, extra black pepper, or a drizzle of olive oil.
- Pack in a thermos for work or a cozy picnic—yes, even grown-ups need soup-to-go.
FAQ: Chicken and Wild Rice Soup
Q: Can I use leftover turkey instead of chicken?
A: 100%! It’s a great way to use up Thanksgiving leftovers.
Q: Can I make this in a slow cooker?
A: Yes—sauté your veggies first, then add everything but the cream and chicken. Cook on low 6–7 hours, stir in chicken and cream at the end.
Q: Is wild rice gluten-free?
A: Yep! Wild rice is naturally gluten-free.
Q: How long does it last in the fridge?
A: About 4 days. If it thickens up, just add a splash of broth or water.
Q: Can I use regular rice?
A: You can, but the texture and flavor will be different (and it may get mushy). Stick with wild rice or a wild rice blend for best results.
External Resources
- Wild Rice Nutrition – Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health
- Chicken Soup Benefits – Cleveland Clinic
- How to Cook Wild Rice – The Kitchn
Final Thoughts: Soup Season, Upgraded
There’s a reason chicken and wild rice soup is a favorite in kitchens across America. It’s cozy, it’s hearty, and it feels like home. Next time you need a pick-me-up or want to feed a crowd with something truly satisfying, give this soup a try. And hey, if you find a new favorite add-in, let me know in the comments. Your next comfort food obsession might be just a bowl away! 🍲
