Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup

Name: Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ¾ cup wild rice, cooked according to package directions; ½ cup butter; ½ cup onion, finely chopped; ½ cup carrots, diced or shredded; ½ cup celery, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; ½ teaspoon dried rosemary; ½ teaspoon dried sage; ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste); ¼ teaspoon black pepper (adjust to taste); ½ cup all-purpose flour; 6 cups chicken broth; 2 cups half-and-half; 2 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded; 2 bay leaves; Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

By:

Sarah

Published:

September 20, 2025

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Why This Recipe Works

Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup is more than just a comforting dish; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures. The creamy broth embraces the nutty wild rice, while the tender chicken adds protein, making it a wholesome meal. Each ingredient plays a vital role, resulting in a harmonious blend that’s easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying. This recipe works because it combines simple ingredients and techniques to create a rich, heartwarming soup that warms both body and soul.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup

You’ll love this soup because it’s not just delicious; it’s nostalgic. The aroma alone evokes memories of home-cooked meals on chilly nights. The mixture of fresh vegetables and herbs enhances its flavor, while the creamy richness makes each spoonful feel luxurious. What’s more, this soup is versatile. You can easily customize it to match your family’s tastes. Whether you’re cozying up on the couch or serving it for a cozy family dinner, this creamy chicken and wild rice soup is a dish that everybody will enjoy.

Ingredients

¾ cup wild rice, cooked according to package directions
½ cup butter
½ cup onion, finely chopped
½ cup carrots, diced or shredded
½ cup celery, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
½ teaspoon dried rosemary
½ teaspoon dried sage
½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
¼ teaspoon black pepper (adjust to taste)
½ cup all-purpose flour
6 cups chicken broth
2 cups half-and-half
2 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded
2 bay leaves
Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Preparing the Wild Rice

Cook the Wild Rice

First, let’s get that wild rice ready. In a separate pot, cook the wild rice according to the package instructions. This usually takes about 40-50 minutes, so you can focus on your flavorful soup while it cooks. Once cooked, set it aside to let it cool slightly.

Creating the Flavor Base

Sauté the Vegetables

Now for the fun part! In a large soup pot, melt the butter over medium-low heat. Add in the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. You want these veggies softened just right, so sauté for about 3-5 minutes until they start to become tender. This step is crucial because it builds a flavorful foundation for your creamy chicken and wild rice soup.

Add Garlic and Herbs

Next, stir in the minced garlic along with your herbs: dried thyme, rosemary, and sage. Season with salt and black pepper. Let those herbs release their wonderful aroma by cooking everything together for about a minute. Trust me, you’ll love how your kitchen starts to smell!

Developing the Soup Base

Make the Roux

Now it’s time to thicken things up a bit! Add the all-purpose flour to your sautéed vegetables and whisk continuously to form a smooth roux. Cook this for about 2-3 minutes until it takes on a light golden color. This roux is fundamental; it’s what gives your creamy chicken and wild rice soup that luscious texture.

Combine Broth and Cream

Slowly pour in the chicken broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. It’s okay, keep stirring! Now add the half-and-half. Continue mixing until the soup begins to lightly thicken. Keep an eye on it—this is where the magic starts to happen!

Bringing It All Together

Stir in Chicken and Rice

Once your soup base is ready, stir in the cooked chicken and that wild rice you set aside earlier. Don’t forget the bay leaves! Let everything simmer together for about 10-15 minutes. This allows all those flavors to meld together. Stir occasionally, and watch as your creamy chicken and wild rice soup transforms into something truly special.

Adjust Seasoning

Before serving, taste your soup. This is the best part! Adjust the seasoning with extra salt and black pepper to your liking. Also, remember to remove those bay leaves—no one wants to bite into one of those!

Serving Suggestions

Garnish and Serve

Ladle your creamy chicken and wild rice soup into bowls, and don’t skimp on the garnish! A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley adds a lovely touch. Serve warm and enjoy! This soup is perfect all on its own, but it also pairs wonderfully with some crusty bread or a fresh garden salad. It’s a meal that wraps you in warmth and comfort.

Tips for Success

Make sure to cook the wild rice according to package instructions for the best texture. It should be tender but still have a slight chew.
Don’t rush the sautéing process! It enhances the overall flavor of your creamy chicken and wild rice soup.
Always taste and adjust the seasoning to fit your preferences—it’s your soup after all!

Variations

Add More Veggies: You can easily incorporate mushrooms or spinach. It not only boosts nutrition but also enhances the soup’s flavor profile.
Spice it Up: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the pot for a slight kick.
Make it Lighter: You can use a lower-fat version of half-and-half or replace it with almond milk for a lighter take.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers (which is often the case with such a delicious soup!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Alternatively, freeze portions for a quick meal later—just remember it can last in the freezer for up to two months.

Pairing Ideas

Looking to serve this soup as part of a meal? Pair it with some crusty bread for dipping or a fresh salad to create a complete dining experience. A light white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, also complements the creaminess beautifully.

FAQs

How long does this soup keep in the refrigerator?

When stored in an airtight container, this creamy chicken and wild rice soup will keep in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! Using leftover rotisserie chicken is perfect. It adds so much flavor and saves you time.

Is there a dairy-free alternative for the cream?

For those needing a dairy-free option, you can substitute the half-and-half with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative.

Can I freeze this soup?

Yes! The soup can be frozen in portions for up to two months. Just be sure to leave out the dairy for the best texture when reheating.

What can I serve with this soup?

This creamy chicken and wild rice soup pairs well with crusty bread, a light salad, or even grilled cheese sandwiches for a cozy, satisfying meal.

Enjoy crafting your creamy chicken and wild rice soup. Each time you make it, you can explore new flavors and enjoy hearty warmth that feels just like home!