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

All Recipes

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.

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. Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F / 74°C by probing the thickest part of the pieces. The chicken should be white throughout with no pink remaining.

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.

💡

Tips & Tricks

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use brown rice instead of wild rice?

Yes, but adjust the cooking time as brown rice may take longer to cook.

How do I store leftover soup?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

What type of chicken is best for this soup?

Cooked, shredded chicken such as rotisserie or poached chicken breasts works well.

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, adding the rice for the last 90 minutes.

How can I make the soup creamier?

Add a splash of cream or milk towards the end of cooking for a richer texture.

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.

Nutrition per serving

250

Calories

20g

Protein

Fat

A hearty and creamy chicken and fennel soup perfect for a comforting meal.

Easy60 min

See the recipe

Kitchen & BBQ gear

What we use for recipes like this

See the whole store

Coffee & Drinks · French Press

PARACITY French Press Coffee Maker 34oz, Coffee Press with 3 Filters Screen, Camping French Press, Portable Cold Brew Coffee Maker for Travel& Home Gift(Black)

$17.99

Kitchen Appliances · Toasters

Proctor Silex 2-Slice Toaster, White, Extra-Wide Slot Toaster with Shade Selector, Cool Wall, Toast Boost, Auto Shutoff, Cancel Button, 22216G

$29.97

Pit Boss Grills

Sweet Heat BBQ Sauce

$7.99

Affiliate links. Prices come from Amazon and are refreshed at least every 24 hours.