Name: Chicken Wild Rice Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken breast or thighs; 3/4 cup wild rice blend; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 1 medium onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 6 cups chicken broth; 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free alternative); 1 cup milk or heavy cream; 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste); 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste); 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 bay leaf

Why You’ll Love Chicken Wild Rice Soup Recipe

This recipe delivers everything you want in a classic bowl of soup—rich flavor, creamy texture, and a satisfying blend of protein, grains, and veggies. It’s a one-pot wonder that makes weeknight dinners easy and crowd-pleasing. Whether you’re looking for a cozy winter meal or something to meal-prep for the week, Chicken Wild Rice Soup is a go-to option. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free and can be made dairy-free with a few simple swaps.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

chicken breast or thighs, cooked and shredded
wild rice blend
carrots, diced
celery, diced
onion, chopped
garlic, minced
chicken broth
butter or olive oil
all-purpose flour (or gluten-free alternative)
milk or heavy cream
salt and pepper
dried thyme
bay leaf

Directions

In a large pot, heat butter or oil over medium heat. Sauté onion, carrots, and celery until softened.
Add garlic, thyme, and bay leaf, and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Stir in the flour to create a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes.
Gradually whisk in chicken broth to avoid lumps. Bring to a boil.
Add wild rice and reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 45-50 minutes or until the rice is tender.
Stir in the cooked, shredded chicken and let it heat through.
Add milk or cream and continue to simmer for 5-10 minutes until the soup reaches your desired consistency.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove bay leaf before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 6 servings.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

Dairy-Free: Use coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative.
Vegetarian: Skip the chicken and use vegetable broth. Add mushrooms or white beans for protein.
Slow Cooker Version: Add all ingredients (except flour, milk/cream) to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours. Stir in a flour slurry and milk during the last 30 minutes.
Add Greens: Stir in fresh spinach or kale at the end for added nutrients.
Herb Twist: Try rosemary or parsley for a different herb flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, warm the soup on the stove over medium heat until hot, stirring occasionally. You can also microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
If the soup thickens too much after storing, simply add a splash of broth or milk when reheating to thin it out.

FAQs

How do I know when the wild rice is fully cooked?

Wild rice is done when the grains have split open and are tender but still slightly chewy.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes, using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken saves time and adds flavor.

Is wild rice the same as regular rice?

No, wild rice is actually a grass seed with a firmer texture and nutty flavor compared to white or brown rice.

Can I freeze Chicken Wild Rice Soup?

Yes, it freezes well, but for best texture, freeze before adding the cream. Add cream after reheating.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

Milk, half-and-half, or dairy-free alternatives like coconut milk work well.

How can I make this soup thicker?

Add more flour when making the roux, or stir in a cornstarch slurry near the end of cooking.

Can I cook the rice separately?

Yes, cooking the rice separately allows better control over texture and prevents it from overcooking in the soup.

Can I make this in advance?

Absolutely, it’s a great make-ahead meal. The flavors deepen after sitting overnight.

What vegetables go well in this soup?

Besides carrots and celery, mushrooms, spinach, and peas are great additions.

How long does it last in the fridge?

It keeps for up to 4 days when stored properly in an airtight container.

Conclusion

Chicken Wild Rice Soup is a flavorful, hearty, and wholesome dish that never goes out of style. Whether you’re meal prepping, feeding the family, or just want a cozy bowl to warm you up, this recipe delivers. With endless variations and easy storage, it’s a comforting classic you’ll return to again and again.