Hey y’all! Get ready to cozy up with a bowl of pure comfort—our Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup is a delightful blend of tenderness and rich flavors that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re warming up on a chilly evening or serving up something special for family and friends, this soup is sure to be a hit. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This
- Rich and Creamy: The perfect balance of creamy broth and tender chicken.
- Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with wholesome ingredients like wild rice and vegetables.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make it ahead and enjoy its flavors throughout the week.
- Family-Friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike.
- Customizable: Easy to adapt to suit different dietary needs.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium carrots, sliced
- 3 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup wild rice, rinsed
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt to taste
Directions
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes.
Create the Base
Stir in thyme and black pepper. Sprinkle flour over the mixture, stirring continuously for 1 minute to eliminate the raw flour taste.
Add Broth and Rice
Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, ensuring no lumps form. Add the wild rice and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 45 minutes or until rice is tender.
Incorporate Chicken and Cream
Add the shredded chicken and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Cook for an additional 5-10 minutes until heated through. Season with salt to taste.
Notes
- For a gluten-free version, substitute flour with cornstarch. Learn more here.
- Use rotisserie chicken to save time on cooking.
- For a richer flavor, use homemade chicken broth. Find a recipe here.
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- Mushroom Addition: Stir in 1 cup of mushrooms for an earthy flavor.
- Dairy-Free: Replace heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
Required Equipment
- Large pot
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
Storage Instructions
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave until hot.
Suggested Pairings
Pair this soup with a fresh green salad or a slice of crusty bread to complete your meal.
Pro Tips
- Use a mix of wild rice and brown rice for varied texture.
- Let the soup sit for a day to enhance its flavors. More on soup flavor development here.
- For a thicker soup, blend a portion and return it to the pot.
FAQ
- Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast? Absolutely! Thighs add extra richness to the soup.
- How can I make it vegetarian? Swap chicken for tofu and use vegetable broth.
- Can I freeze this soup? Yes, it freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.