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If you’re craving a nourishing bowl of comfort with rich, wholesome flavors, this Healthy Chicken Wild Rice Soup Recipe is exactly what you need. Bursting with tender chicken, earthy wild rice, and a colorful blend of vegetables, every spoonful feels like a warm hug that’s good for your body and soul. It’s simple enough for weeknight dinners yet special enough to share with friends or family, combining heartiness and health in one delicious pot.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering fresh, straightforward ingredients is the secret to this soup’s incredible depth of flavor and satisfying texture. Each component works together to create balance—from the meaty chicken and chewy wild rice to the vibrant vegetables and fragrant herbs that brighten every bite.
- 1.5 pounds chicken pieces: Using a mix of breasts, drumsticks, or cut-up whole chicken ensures juicy, flavorful meat and broth richness.
- 1 large onion, finely chopped: Adds a sweet and savory foundation to the soup’s aroma and taste.
- 2 large garlic cloves, minced: Introduces warm, pungent notes that elevate the entire dish.
- 2 large carrots, coarsely chopped: Provide natural sweetness and vibrant orange color for a fresh feel.
- 3 large celery stalks, diced: Bring a subtle herbal crunch and depth with their crisp texture.
- 2 large potatoes, diced: Create body and creaminess while soaking up the savory broth.
- ½ cup dried mushrooms or 2 cups fresh brown mushrooms, sliced: Add an earthy umami boost that deepens the soup’s flavor.
- 1 ½ cups wild rice: Offers a nutty taste and hearty chew to make the soup incredibly satisfying.
- 7 cups water or low sodium chicken broth: Acts as the cooking liquid, enriching the soup without overpowering the ingredients.
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme: Gives gentle herbal warmth and complexity.
- 1 tablespoon prepared mustard: Adds a subtle tangy kick that ties the flavors together beautifully.
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder: Reinforces garlic’s signature flavor for fullness throughout.
- 1 ¾ teaspoons salt: Enhances all the natural tastes while balancing the dish.
- Ground black pepper, to taste: Contributes a mild spiciness that livens up each spoonful.
- 2 cups whole milk: Makes the soup luxuriously creamy without heaviness.
- Small bunch parsley, finely chopped: Freshens and brightens the final bowl with its herbaceous flair.
- 1 tablespoon butter (for stovetop only): Provides richness when sautéing the vegetables, building a luscious base.
How to Make Healthy Chicken Wild Rice Soup Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Base Vegetables
Start by heating butter in a large heavy-bottom pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once melted, toss in the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté these until translucent and fragrant, about 3 to 4 minutes. This step unlocks their sweetness and lays the perfect flavor foundation for the soup.
Step 2: Add Vegetables and Seasonings
Next, stir in the coarsely chopped carrots, diced celery, and either fresh sliced mushrooms or dried mushrooms depending on what you have on hand. Sprinkle in the dried thyme, garlic powder, salt, and ground black pepper. Cook everything together for about 5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften slightly while absorbing the savory herbs and spices.
Step 3: Combine Chicken, Potatoes, Wild Rice, and Liquid
It’s time to add in the chicken pieces, diced potatoes, wild rice, and your choice of water or low sodium chicken broth. If you used dried mushrooms earlier, add them now as well. Bring the pot to a boil, then cover and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer gently for approximately 55 minutes. This slow cooking lets the flavors meld perfectly and the wild rice to become tender but still delightfully chewy.
Step 4: Shred the Chicken and Finish the Soup
Once the cooking time is up, carefully remove the chicken onto a plate and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded meat back into the pot. Stir in whole milk and prepared mustard for a comforting creaminess and subtle tang. Use an immersion blender to pulse the soup a few times until you reach your preferred thickness—some like it chunkier, others smoother. Adjust seasoning and consistency by adding extra water or spices to suit your taste. Finally, sprinkle chopped parsley on top for a burst of fresh color and flavor.
How to Serve Healthy Chicken Wild Rice Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkling freshly chopped parsley not only adds a vibrant pop of green but also infuses each bite with subtle herbaceous notes. For extra indulgence, a small dollop of sour cream or crème fraîche can lend a luxurious silkiness. Cracked black pepper freshly ground on top amps up the aromatic spice as well.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs beautifully with crusty artisan bread or warm dinner rolls for dipping and soaking up every last drop. For a lighter feel, a crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette creates a refreshing contrast. Roasted vegetables or a simple fruit salad also complement the soup’s hearty nature without overpowering it.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the soup in rustic bowls for a cozy, homestyle vibe. For dinner parties, ladle it into mini bread bowls for a charming presentation that doubles as edible servingware. Garnish with a sprig of fresh thyme or a swirl of cream artfully placed on top to wow your guests and make each serving feel like a special occasion.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Healthy Chicken Wild Rice Soup Recipe keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 4 days. Store it in an airtight container to preserve all the fresh flavors and aromas. Before reheating, give the soup a good stir as the wild rice can soak up liquids and thicken over time.
Freezing
Good news for meal planners: this soup freezes fantastically. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving a bit of room for expansion. It can keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results and reheat gently to maintain the creamy texture.
Reheating
Reheat the soup slowly on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring frequently to prevent scorching. If it seems too thick, add a splash of water, milk, or broth to loosen the consistency. Avoid microwaving at high heat as it can cause the dairy to separate. A gentle warm-up keeps the soup’s velvety mouthfeel intact.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of wild rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice works well and will give a milder flavor with a slightly softer texture. Just keep in mind that the cooking times might differ, so adjust accordingly to ensure the rice is tender but not mushy.
Is it necessary to use whole milk?
Whole milk adds richness and creaminess that balances the flavors perfectly, but you can substitute with 2% milk or even a dairy-free option like coconut or oat milk if you prefer. Just be aware this might slightly alter the flavor and texture.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes, you can omit the chicken and substitute vegetable broth for the chicken broth to transform it into a comforting vegetarian dish. Adding protein-rich beans or lentils can help maintain the heartiness.
How do I prevent the soup from becoming too thick after refrigeration?
Wild rice and potatoes tend to absorb liquid and thicken soups after chilling. Simply stir in a little water, broth, or milk when reheating to restore the perfect creamy consistency without losing flavor.
Can I use pre-cooked chicken in this recipe?
While fresh cooking allows deeper flavor development, using pre-cooked chicken can be a convenient shortcut. Add it near the end just to heat through so it doesn’t overcook and become dry.
Final Thoughts
There’s something wonderfully satisfying about a bowl of Healthy Chicken Wild Rice Soup Recipe that brings comfort and nourishment in every spoonful. Whether it’s a chilly evening or just a day you want to feel cozy and cared for, this recipe delivers warmth, flavor, and wholesome goodness. Give it a go—you might just find your new favorite go-to for simple, healthy comfort food that feels like a real treat.
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Healthy Chicken Wild Rice Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 7 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Healthy Chicken Wild Rice Soup is a comforting and hearty meal perfect for chilly days. Featuring tender chicken, nutrient-packed wild rice, and an assortment of fresh vegetables simmered in flavorful broth, this recipe combines wholesome ingredients for a well-balanced soup. Whether you prefer stovetop, slow cooker, or Instant Pot methods, this versatile recipe delivers a creamy, delicious soup that’s both satisfying and nourishing.
Ingredients
Meat and Protein
- 1.5 pounds any raw chicken pieces (breasts, drumsticks, or cut-up whole chicken)
Vegetables
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 large garlic cloves, minced
- 2 large carrots, coarsely chopped
- 3 large celery stalks, diced
- 2 large potatoes, diced
- ½ cup dried mushrooms or 2 cups fresh brown mushrooms, sliced
- Small bunch parsley, finely chopped
Grains and Legumes
- 1 ½ cups wild rice
Liquids and Dairy
- 7 cups water or low sodium chicken broth
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 tablespoon butter (for stovetop and slow cooker methods only)
Spices and Condiments
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 tablespoon prepared mustard (plus additional for after cooking)
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 ¾ teaspoons salt
- Ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prep the base: For stovetop and slow cooker methods, start by heating butter in a large pot or skillet over medium heat until melted. Add finely chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing for 3-4 minutes until fragrant and translucent.
- Add vegetables and seasonings: Stir in chopped carrots, celery, and fresh mushrooms (if using). Sprinkle in dried thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Sauté this mixture for about 5 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Combine main ingredients: Add raw chicken pieces, diced potatoes, dried mushrooms (if not using fresh), wild rice, and water or low sodium chicken broth to the pot (or slow cooker).
- Cook the soup: For stovetop, cover the pot, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for approximately 55 minutes until chicken is fully cooked and rice is tender. For slow cooker, transfer the sautéed vegetables and spices along with the other ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on Low for 8-10 hours or on High for 5-6 hours.
- Instant Pot method: Add chicken, onion, garlic, carrots, celery, potatoes, mushrooms, wild rice, water or broth, thyme, mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper directly into the Instant Pot. Seal the lid, set to Pressure Cook on High for 25 minutes. Once done, wait 10 minutes before performing a quick pressure release.
- Shred chicken: Remove the cooked chicken pieces from the pot or cooker and shred them with two forks.
- Finish the soup: Add whole milk and mustard to the pot. Using an immersion blender, pulse several times until the soup reaches your preferred thickness. Adjust consistency with extra water or broth and seasoning as needed.
- Add chicken and herbs: Return the shredded chicken to the soup along with finely chopped parsley. Stir well to combine all flavors.
- Serve: Ladle the soup hot into bowls and serve with crusty bread on the side for dipping.
Notes
- You can use either fresh or dried mushrooms; if using dried, add them with the chicken and rice.
- Butter is used only in stovetop and slow cooker versions to sauté the vegetables.
- Adjust salt and pepper according to your taste preferences, especially if using salted broth.
- For a lighter version, substitute whole milk with low-fat or plant-based milk.
- The soup can be thickened or thinned by adjusting the amount of liquid after blending.
- Make sure to shred the chicken finely to evenly distribute throughout the soup.
- This soup freezes well; store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
