This Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup is the perfect comfort food. Loaded with tender chicken, wholesome wild rice, fresh vegetables, and a creamy, savory broth, it’s a hearty meal that will warm you up on a chilly day. Plus, it’s easy to make and full of rich flavor!
📋 Ingredients:
For the Soup:
- 2 tablespoons butter 🧈
- 1 medium onion, chopped 🧅
- 2 cloves garlic, minced 🧄
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced 🥕
- 2 celery stalks, diced 🌿
- 1 cup wild rice (or a wild rice blend) 🌾
- 4 cups chicken broth 🍲
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken 🍗
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half 🥛
- 1/2 cup milk 🥛
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour 🌾
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme 🌿
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste 🧂
📝 Instructions:
1. Cook the Rice:
- Prepare the rice:
- Cook the wild rice according to the package instructions. This usually takes about 45 minutes to an hour. Set aside once cooked.
2. Prepare the Soup Base:
- Sauté the vegetables:
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender.
- Add the flour:
- Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes. This creates a roux, which will help thicken the soup.
- Add the broth and spices:
- Gradually add the chicken broth, stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Add the thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
3. Combine and Cook:
- Add the chicken and rice:
- Stir in the cooked wild rice and shredded chicken. Continue to simmer for about 10 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Add cream and milk:
- In a small bowl, mix the milk with the heavy cream. Slowly pour the mixture into the soup, stirring constantly. Allow the soup to simmer for another 5 minutes until it’s warmed through and creamy. Avoid boiling the soup after adding the cream to prevent curdling.
4. Serve:
- Serve hot:
- Ladle the soup into bowls and serve immediately. Enjoy it with a crusty piece of bread or a fresh salad on the side.
🍽️ Tips:
- Make it lighter: Substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or milk for a lighter soup.
- For a thicker soup: Add an extra tablespoon of flour to the sautéed vegetables for a thicker consistency.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The soup may thicken as it sits; simply add a splash of milk when reheating to adjust the consistency.
⏱️ Preparation Time: 15 minutes
⏱️ Cooking Time: 45 minutes (includes rice cooking time)
🍽️ Servings: 6
🔥 Calories: Approximately 350 kcal per serving
Enjoy this Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup for a comforting, nourishing, and delicious meal that’s sure to satisfy! 🍲🥕🍗