Chicken and Wild Rice Soup (Comforting and Easy Recipe)

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Chicken and wild rice soup is a cozy, creamy dish made with tender chicken, hearty wild rice, and colorful vegetables simmered together for rich, comforting flavor and a satisfying mix of textures.

Hearty chicken and wild rice soup with vegetables and creamy broth, garnished with herbs in a white bowl.

Chicken and wild rice soup is a comforting, hearty meal perfect for cozy nights. This creamy chicken and wild rice soup is rich in protein, fiber, and nutrients, and it’s easy to customize with gluten-free or vegetarian swaps to suit your taste.

Why You’ll Love Chicken and Wild Rice Soup:

Family Favorite: Chicken and wild rice soup made with tender chicken, sweet potatoes, and a savory blend of herbs like dried thyme and bay leaves is a true crowd-pleaser. Its comforting flavors are loved by both kids and adults, making this chicken and wild rice soup a family favorite.
Vibrant and Versatile: This chicken and wild rice soup recipe is easy to adapt to your needs. Swap chicken thighs for chicken breasts or make it gluten-free with simple substitutions. The colorful mix of vegetables boosts both the visual appeal and the nutritional value of this hearty soup.
Delicious: Rich chicken broth, creamy heavy cream, and the distinct flavor of a wild rice blend come together to create an irresistibly delicious chicken and wild rice soup. The added seasoning packet enhances the flavor even more, making this a cozy soup you’ll want to make again and again.

Homemade chicken and wild rice soup with tender chicken, wild rice, carrots, celery, and mushrooms in a creamy broth.

Chicken and Wild Rice Soup Key Ingredients

Potatoes: Potatoes create the hearty, starchy base of this chicken and wild rice soup. As they cook, they soften and naturally thicken the soup, making it extra filling and comforting.
Carrots: Carrots add a gentle sweetness and vibrant color while blending smoothly into the texture of the soup as they soften.
Celery: Celery brings a subtle, aromatic flavor that complements the other ingredients and adds depth to this classic chicken and wild rice soup.
Mushrooms: Mushrooms contribute an earthy flavor and a slightly meaty texture, making the soup even more hearty and satisfying.
Yellow Onion: Onion builds the foundation of flavor, softening as it cooks and adding a sweet, savory richness to the soup.
Garlic: Garlic infuses the soup with bold, savory aroma and enhances the overall flavor of the creamy broth.
Chicken Breast: Tender, shredded chicken breast adds lean protein and makes this chicken and wild rice soup a well-rounded, satisfying meal.
Heavy Whipping Cream: Heavy cream creates a rich, creamy texture that smooths out the flavors and gives the soup its comforting finish.
Chicken Bouillon Paste: This concentrated seasoning intensifies the chicken flavor, making the broth deeply savory and delicious.
Wild Rice with Seasoning: Wild rice adds texture, fiber, and a nutty flavor, while the included seasoning packet boosts the overall taste of the soup.
Mrs. Dash Seasoning: This salt-free blend enhances flavor without extra sodium, keeping the soup both tasty and heart-healthy.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for balancing flavors, salt and pepper allow you to customize the seasoning of your chicken and wild rice soup to taste.

All you need are some simple pantry staple ingredients to make this soup recipe at home.

For a full list of ingredients and quantities, please check the recipe card at the end of this post.

How to Make Chicken and Wild Rice Soup

Prep and Cook the Chicken: Cut the chicken breasts into small, bite-sized pieces and season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat a small amount of olive oil in a saucepan over medium-high heat, then add the chicken. Cook until the pieces are golden brown on all sides. Once fully cooked, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside for later (You can skip this step by using rotisserie chicken).

Prepare the Vegetables and Simmer: Peel and dice the sweet potato into small chunks, dice the carrots, and slice the celery thinly. Add these vegetables along with the cooked chicken to a large pot of boiling water and season with salt. For extra flavor, toss in a few bay leaves. Reduce to low or medium heat and let the soup simmer for about five minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Raw chicken breasts cut into bite-sized pieces, seasoned with salt and pepper, ready to be sautéed in olive oil.

Sauté the Aromatics and Mushrooms: While the soup is simmering, heat a saucepan and sauté the mushrooms. Add more butter, chopped onions and minced garlic, seasoning with your preferred fresh herbs (like rosemary, sage, parsley, dill, etc…). For extra flavor, use Mrs. Dash seasoning, the seasoning packet from your wild rice blend, chicken bouillon paste, and salt and pepper to taste. Cook over medium-high heat for a few minutes until fragrant and tender. Then, transfer the sautéed mushroom mixture into the pot with the simmering chicken and vegetables.

Sautéed mushrooms, chopped onions, and minced garlic being cooked in a pan with herbs, Mrs. Dash seasoning, and seasoning.

Finish the Soup: Let the soup simmer for a few more minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Stir in the heavy cream (or other dairy, like whole milk) and add the wild rice blend, simmering for about 5 more minutes. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Turn off the heat and let the rice sit in the hot soup, allowing it to cook fully and soak up the rich, savory flavors.

Heavy cream and wild rice stirred into the pot of chicken and vegetable soup, simmering to combine flavors.

Let the Flavors Develop: Allow the chicken and wild rice soup to sit for about an hour (with a lid crack open) before serving. This resting time helps the flavors deepen, creating a rich, hearty, and satisfying soup that’s perfect for any cozy meal.

Large pot of creamy chicken and wild rice soup simmering with tender chicken, wild rice, carrots, celery, mushrooms, and herbs.

Serve and Enjoy: Your homemade chicken and wild rice soup is ready! Ladle it into bowls, savor the creamy, savory flavors, and enjoy a comforting, hearty meal.

Bowl of comforting chicken and wild rice soup with creamy broth, fresh vegetables, and shredded chicken, ready to serve.

Chicken and Wild Rice Soup Variations:

Try It Vegetarian: Replace the chicken stock with vegetable broth and swap the chicken breasts for a mix of cauliflower and broccoli. This creates a hearty, fiber-rich soup with fewer calories, perfect for a vegetarian option.
Go Gluten-Free: Swap the regular wild rice blend for a gluten-free long-grain wild rice blend. You’ll keep the hearty flavor of the soup while making it safe for a gluten-free diet.
Add Some Sweetness: Dice a sweet potato and add it to the vegetable mix for a subtle sweetness that pairs beautifully with the savory chicken and herbs.

Serving Suggestions for Chicken and Wild Rice Soup:

Hearty Lunch: Serve this chicken and while rice soup with a slice of crusty bread. The bread soaks up the flavorful broth and adds a satisfying crunch to contrast the soup’s creamy texture.
Dinner Idea: Pair the chicken and while rice soup with a fresh green salad. The crisp, refreshing vegetables balance the rich, creamy soup for a well-rounded, satisfying meal.
Soup Bar for Guests: Hosting a group? Set up a soup bar with shredded cheese, chopped herbs, and assorted seasonings so everyone can customize their chicken and wild rice soup to their taste.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of chicken can I use for this wild rice soup recipe?

You can use any type of shredded chicken for this chicken and while rice soup recipe. Both chicken breasts and chicken thighs work for this recipe. Cook the chicken thoroughly and shred it into small chunks using two forks.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe can be made gluten-free. Just make sure that the chicken broth and the wild rice blend you use are both gluten-free. The rest of the ingredients, including vegetables and herbs, are naturally gluten-free.

What if I don’t have a seasoning packet for the wild rice?

If you don’t have a seasoning packet for the wild rice, you can make your seasoning. Use dried thyme, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Adjust the flavors to your taste.

Can I use other vegetables in this chicken and while rice soup?

Absolutely! You can add other veggies like broccoli, cauliflower, or sweet potato to this soup. Just make sure to chop them into small pieces and add them to the saucepan along with the other ingredients.

How can I thicken the chicken and while rice soup?

If you prefer a thicker soup, you can whisk together some cornstarch and water in a small bowl, then stir this cornstarch slurry mixture into the soup. Let it simmer for a few more minutes until the soup thickens to your liking.

Storing Leftover Chicken and Wild Rice Soup:

After enjoying a comforting bowl of chicken and wild rice soup, you may have some leftovers. Storing this delicious soup is simple.

First, allow the soup to cool completely. Transfer it into airtight containers and place them in the refrigerator. Your chicken and wild rice soup will stay fresh for about four to five days.

To reheat, warm the soup in a saucepan over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also use the microwave, but be sure to stir halfway through for even heating.

Freezing is not recommended for this chicken and wild rice soup recipe, as the texture of the rice and vegetables can change, resulting in a less fresh taste. For the best flavor and consistency, enjoy this soup fresh and store any leftovers in the fridge.