Chicken and Wild Rice Soup

Name: Chicken and Wild Rice Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 60 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: Canadian
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 cup chopped onion (about 1 medium onion); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 cup carrots (sliced); 1 cup celery (sliced); 8 cups chicken broth (low sodium); 1 cup wild rice (rinsed); 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded); 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried rosemary; 1 teaspoon salt (to taste); 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground)

60 min 6 servings Medium

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Chicken and Wild Rice Soup

A hearty and comforting chicken and wild rice soup, perfect for warming up on a chilly day.

Prep

15 min

Cook

45 min

Total

60 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

Chicken and wild rice soup is a classic comfort dish that combines tender chicken, earthy wild rice, and a medley of vegetables in a savoury broth. This soup is not only filling but also nutritious, making it a perfect meal for those chilly days when you crave something warm and hearty. The origins of this soup can be traced back to the North American Midwest, where both chicken and wild rice are staple ingredients. This version of the soup highlights the nutty flavour of wild rice while ensuring the chicken remains juicy and tender.

Ingredients

Servings

Soup Base

Seasoning

Instructions

Prepare Ingredients

Rinse the wild rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Set aside.

Pro tip: Rinsing the rice helps remove excess starch and prevents it from becoming gummy.

Cook Vegetables

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, sauté until onions are translucent, about 3 minutes. Add carrots and celery, cooking for an additional 5 minutes.

Pro tip: Sautéing vegetables enhances their natural sweetness.

Add Broth and Rice

Pour in the chicken broth and add the rinsed wild rice. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 30 minutes.

Pro tip: Covering the pot allows the rice to cook evenly.

Add Chicken and Season

Add the cooked chicken, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.

Pro tip: Adjust seasoning according to your taste after adding the chicken.

Simmer Until Rice is Tender

Continue to simmer the soup for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the wild rice is tender and has burst open.

Pro tip: Check the rice for doneness by its texture; it should be chewy, not hard.

Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Pro tip: A garnish of fresh herbs adds a pop of colour and freshness.

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Tips & Tricks

<ul><li>Use leftover chicken to save time.</li><li>Rinse wild rice thoroughly before cooking to remove excess starch.</li><li>Adjust seasoning to taste after cooking, especially if using low-sodium broth.</li><li>For a creamier texture, add a splash of cream or milk at the end.</li></ul>

Serving Suggestions

This chicken and wild rice soup can be served on its own as a complete meal or paired with a side of crusty bread or a fresh green salad for added texture and flavour. Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water or broth if it becomes too thick. This soup can also be frozen for up to three months.