Creamy Chicken & Wild Rice Soup

Creamy Chicken & Wild Rice Soup is a hearty, comforting classic featuring tender chicken, nutty wild rice, and vegetables in a rich, velvety broth. It’s ideal for cold weather, meal prep, or whenever you want something deeply satisfying but balanced.

This version focuses on proper layering of flavor, correct rice handling, and a stable cream finish.

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Why This Recipe Works

• Wild rice adds texture and earthy depth
• Mirepoix base builds aromatic complexity
• Gentle thickening prevents curdling
• Balanced richness without being heavy

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Understanding Wild Rice

Wild rice is technically a grass seed, not true rice. It has a chewy texture and nutty flavor that holds up well in creamy soups.

Cooking tip: Wild rice takes longer than white rice (45–60 minutes unless pre-cooked).

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Ingredients

Protein & Grain

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• ¾ cup wild rice (uncooked, rinsed)

Aromatics & Vegetables

• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced

Liquids

• 6 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup whole milk or half-and-half
• ½ cup heavy cream

Thickening Base

• 3 tablespoons butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour

Seasonings

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon dried rosemary (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook 5–6 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds.

2. Build the Base

Stir in flour and cook 1–2 minutes to remove raw taste. This forms a roux for thickening.

Gradually whisk in chicken broth to avoid lumps.

3. Add Chicken & Rice

Add rinsed wild rice, chicken, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.

Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook 35–45 minutes until rice is tender and chicken is cooked through.

4. Shred the Chicken

Remove chicken, shred with forks, and return to pot.

5. Add Cream

Lower heat. Stir in milk and heavy cream. Simmer gently (do not boil) for 5–10 minutes until slightly thickened.

Adjust seasoning as needed.

6. Garnish & Serve

Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve warm.

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Texture & Flavor Profile

• Creamy but not overly heavy
• Earthy from wild rice
• Savory herbal undertones
• Tender chicken throughout
• Balanced vegetable sweetness

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Pro Tips for Best Results

Don’t Rush the Rice

Undercooked wild rice will be tough. Taste before finishing.

Simmer Gently After Adding Dairy

High heat can cause separation.

Use Thighs for Extra Flavor

Chicken thighs yield richer broth and more moisture retention.

For Thicker Soup

Simmer uncovered longer or add a cornstarch slurry.

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Variations

Mushroom Addition

Add sliced mushrooms with the vegetables for added umami.

Lighter Version

Use only milk and skip heavy cream.

Extra Hearty

Add diced potatoes for additional body.

Dairy-Free Option

Substitute coconut milk and use oil instead of butter.

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What to Serve With It

• Crusty artisan bread
• Simple green salad
• Buttermilk biscuits
• Roasted Brussels sprouts

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Storage & Reheating

Refrigeration

Store up to 4 days in an airtight container.

Freezing

Freeze without cream for best texture. Add dairy after reheating.

Reheating

Warm gently on stovetop. Add broth if thickened too much.

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Nutritional Highlights

• Lean protein from chicken
• Fiber from vegetables and wild rice
• Calcium from dairy
• Balanced macronutrient profile

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Boiling after adding cream
2. Undercooking wild rice
3. Skipping seasoning adjustments at the end
4. Not whisking broth gradually into roux

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Final Thoughts

Creamy Chicken & Wild Rice Soup is a timeless comfort dish with depth and texture that sets it apart from standard chicken soups. The chewy wild rice, tender chicken, and silky broth create a satisfying balance of richness and heartiness.

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