Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup

Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup: A Cozy Bowl of Comfort

There’s nothing quite like a steaming bowl of Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup to wrap you in a warm hug. Imagine the delightful aroma of sautéed onions and garlic wafting through the kitchen, as you whisk together a medley of ingredients that create this heartwarming dish. Each spoonful is an invitation to savor the rich flavors—rotisserie chicken mingling effortlessly with nutty wild rice, enveloped in a luxuriously creamy broth.

This recipe is not just a meal; it’s a joyfully nostalgic experience that brings families together, warms your soul, and comforts on even the coldest of days. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or something to impress during family gatherings, this soup is a true crowd-pleaser—fast to prepare yet indulgently delicious.

Are you craving the ultimate comfort food?

Picture this: it’s a chilly evening, and all you want is something that will not only satisfy your hunger but also evoke a sense of warmth and nostalgia. Maybe you’re reminiscing about cozy evenings with family, the flicker of candlelight, and laughter echoing through the home. Isn’t it the best feeling to curl up with a bowl of something creamy and delicious while wrapped in a soft blanket?

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup is the epitome of comfort food, and you will love it for numerous reasons:

• Easy Prep: With just a handful of ingredients, this recipe is straightforward and quick to whip up.
• Healthful: While it’s indulgent, it still incorporates wholesome ingredients such as veggies and chicken broth.
• Kid-Friendly: The creamy texture and savory flavors make it appealing to children and adults alike, ensuring it will become a family favorite.
• Minimal Ingredients: You likely have most of these staples in your pantry, making it a convenient option for a weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

To create this luscious, creamy soup, gather these ingredients:

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter: for that rich flavor as it melts into the mixture.
• 1 small onion, diced: adding a touch of sweetness and depth, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
• 2 medium carrots, diced: lending a bright pop of color and earthy sweetness to the dish.
• 2 stalks celery, diced: for that satisfying crunch, complementing the creaminess of the soup.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: infusing the soup with aromatic goodness that’ll have your taste buds dancing.
• 5 cups chicken broth: the foundation of our soup’s flavor—rich, comforting, and savory.
• 1 cup wild rice, rinsed: bringing a nutty bite and heartiness that enriches every spoonful.
• 1 teaspoon salt: to enhance and elevate all the flavors.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: adding that essential kick that brings the dish to life.
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme: for a hint of floral notes, creating a cozy atmosphere with each bite.
• 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary: infusing a beautiful earthiness into the mix.
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika: giving the soup a lovely color and a touch of sweetness.
• 2 cups rotisserie chicken, shredded: your shortcut to flavor and convenience—plus, who doesn’t love rotisserie chicken?
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream: for that decadent creaminess that makes you sigh with satisfaction.
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: to thicken the soup beautifully, adding a luscious texture.
• 1 cup whole milk: for an extra layer of richness that enhances the creamy base.
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped: for garnish, adding a fresh pop of color and flavor.
• To taste cracked black pepper: for a finishing touch that brings everything together.

Timing

When it comes to satisfying your cravings, timing is everything.

• Fast and Indulgent: You can have this soup simmering and ready in under 30 minutes, easy to achieve after a long day. It’s the perfect dish when time is of the essence.

• Slow and Luxurious: If you have the time, let it simmer gently—this will deepen the flavors, allowing the wild rice to soak up all that creamy goodness while the spices meld beautifully.

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Sautéing Aromatics

Start by melting those luscious 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a large pot over medium heat. As the butter melts, add the diced onion—feel the soothing warmth as it softens and turns translucent. Next, toss in the diced carrots and celery, letting their colorful presence join the party.

Stir the mixture gently, allowing the vegetables to caramelize and release their natural sweetness. Finally, add in the versatile minced garlic, stirring it in until the intoxicating aroma fills your kitchen with an irresistible allure.

2. Building the Broth

Once your veggies are perfectly sautéed, pour in the 5 cups of chicken broth. This is where the soup truly begins to shine—the broth bubbling and simmering will infuse your kitchen with mouthwatering scents. While it heats, stir in the rinsed wild rice, salt, black pepper, thyme, rosemary, and paprika.

Let this blend simmer for about 45 minutes, encouraging the wild rice to cook through and become wonderfully tender while absorbing all the flavors.

3. Creaminess Comes Next

As you near the end of the cooking time, it’s time to start building the soup’s signature creaminess. In a separate bowl, whisk together the 1/4 cup of flour with the 1 cup of heavy whipping cream and 1 cup of whole milk until smooth. This mixture will thicken our soup beautifully.

Slowly pour this creamy blend into the simmering pot, stirring gently to combine. As you do this, add the shredded rotisserie chicken; the flavors will meld together blissfully.

4. The Grand Finale

Let the soup simmer for an additional 10–15 minutes, stirring often, and allowing the cream to envelop all the ingredients. When the soup reaches your desired thickness, sprinkle in the fresh parsley for a finishing touch, and give it one final stir.

Spoon the enticing soup into bowls and finish with a sprinkle of cracked black pepper for an extra kick.

Nutritional Information

This comforting Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup is not just rich in flavor, it’s also balanced in nutrition.

• Calories: Approximately 350 per serving.

It’s a chicken dish that delivers warmth and satisfaction while still being a wholesome choice for dinner.

Healthier Alternatives

If you’re looking to lighten up this recipe or accommodate dietary restrictions, you can easily make these swaps:

• Low-sugar alternatives: Replace heavy whipping cream with a mixture of coconut milk and unsweetened almond milk for a lighter option.
• Dairy-free substitutes: Instead of cream and milk, try using a plant-based cream and oat milk for a dairy-free version that doesn’t skimp on flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this delicious Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup with a crusty loaf of bread or crunchy crackers for dipping.

It’s perfect for cozy family dinners, holiday get-togethers, or even a comforting meal by yourself after a long day. Pair it with a fresh salad or your favorite dessert to round out the experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overbaking: While overcooking this soup will not ruin it, letting the broth boil too aggressively can adversely affect the texture of the rice.
2. Texture issues: Ensure you’re stirring properly after adding the flour mixture; this avoids lumps forming in your creamy soup.
3. Messes: Use a ladle to serve to keep your kitchen clean, as its creamy nature can easily splatter.

Storing Tips

This soup saves exceptionally well for future cravings.

• Freezing Portions: Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer to airtight containers in suitable portions to freeze. It can stay frozen for up to three months.

• Reheating Instructions: When you’re craving creamy comfort again, reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water if it appears too thick.

Tempted to Make it ASAP?

Don’t just read about this comforting bowl of Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup—make it your next mealtime masterpiece. Picture that rich aroma filling your home and the joy of gathering around the table to share stories over this indulgent dish. It promises warmth, nostalgia, and a family-friendly experience that’s worth every delicious spoonful.

FAQs

1. Can I use leftover turkey instead of chicken?
   Absolutely! This soup works wonderfully with leftover turkey, making it a fantastic post-holiday meal.

2. How long can I store the soup in the fridge?
   The soup can last up to three days in the fridge. Always reheat thoroughly before serving.

3. Can I add more vegetables?
   Yes! Feel free to incorporate your favorite vegetables such as spinach or peas for added nutrition and flavor.

4. Is wild rice gluten-free?
   Yes! Wild rice is naturally gluten-free, making this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

5. Can I prepare this soup in advance?
   Yes, you can make it a day ahead and let the flavors meld overnight. Reheat gently before serving to enjoy a delicious meal with even deeper flavors.

Indulge in this comforting classic that’s not just a meal but an experience, and watch it become a favorite in your home, just as it has in countless others.

Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup

A heartwarming and creamy soup filled with rotisserie chicken, nutty wild rice, and seasonal vegetables, perfect for a cozy meal.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr

Total Time 1 hour hr 10 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Main Course, Soup

Cuisine: American, Comfort Food

Calories: 350

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Base Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter for flavor
• 1 small onion, diced adds sweetness
• 2 medium carrots, diced for color and sweetness
• 2 stalks celery, diced adds crunch
• 3 cloves garlic, minced for aromatic flavor
• 5 cups chicken broth base flavor
• 1 cup wild rice, rinsed for nutty texture
• 1 teaspoon salt to enhance flavor
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper adds kick
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme for floral notes
• 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary adds earthiness
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika for color and sweetness
• 2 cups rotisserie chicken, shredded for convenience and flavor
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream for creaminess
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour to thicken
• 1 cup whole milk for rich texture
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
• to taste cracked black pepper for serving

Method

 

Preparation

1. Melt 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add diced onion and cook until softened and translucent.
3. Stir in the diced carrots and celery, allowing the vegetables to caramelize.
4. Add minced garlic and stir until fragrant.

Building the Broth

1. Pour in 5 cups of chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
2. Stir in the rinsed wild rice, salt, black pepper, thyme, rosemary, and paprika.
3. Let it simmer for about 45 minutes until the wild rice is tender.

Creaminess Comes Next

1. Whisk together 1/4 cup of flour, 1 cup of heavy whipping cream, and 1 cup of whole milk in a separate bowl.
2. Slowly pour this mixture into the simmering pot, stirring gently to combine.
3. Add the shredded rotisserie chicken and stir to meld the flavors.

The Grand Finale

1. Let the soup simmer for an additional 10–15 minutes, stirring frequently.
2. Sprinkle in fresh parsley and stir before serving.
3. Serve in bowls and finish with a sprinkle of cracked black pepper.

Notes

Serve with crusty bread or crackers. This soup can be frozen and reheated for future meals.