Name: Hearty Chicken and Wild Rice Soup Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1½ lb chicken breasts or thighs; 8 cups chicken broth; 1 onion, diced; 2 carrots, sliced; 2 celery stalks, sliced; ¾ cup wild rice; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp dried thyme; Salt and black pepper to taste

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If you are craving something both nourishing and soul-soothing, this Hearty Chicken and Wild Rice Soup Recipe is exactly what your kitchen needs. Imagine tender chicken swimming alongside earthy wild rice and vibrant vegetables in a warm, savory broth that feels like a hug in a bowl. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a day when you just want hearty comfort, this soup brings together simple ingredients to create a dish that’s anything but ordinary. Each spoonful reveals layers of flavor and texture that make it a beloved classic for good reason.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Nine small white bowls are arranged neatly in a 3x3 grid on a wooden tray with a clear glass measuring cup and a carton of broth placed below them. The bowls contain sliced carrots (orange), shredded chicken (white), sliced mushrooms (light brown), chopped celery (light green), wild rice mix (dark and light brown), flour (white powder), cubed mozzarella cheese (white), and a small amount of clear liquid in a glass bowl. The measuring cup holds a golden-brown broth. The entire setup is on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This recipe calls for ingredients that are straightforward yet powerful in building that rich depth and hearty texture you want in a homemade soup. Each component plays a critical role, from the aromatic vegetables that create the soup’s savory base to the wild rice that adds an irresistible nutty chew.

Chicken breasts or thighs (1½ lb): Using thighs delivers extra juiciness, but breasts work beautifully for a leaner option.
Olive oil (1 tbsp): A good quality olive oil lends a gentle fruitiness during the sautéing process.
Onion, diced (1): This is your flavor foundation, introducing subtle sweetness and depth as it softens.
Carrots, sliced (2): Carrots add a hint of natural sweetness and a lovely pop of color to brighten the soup.
Celery stalks, sliced (2): Celery contributes crunch and an herby note that complements the other vegetables.
Wild rice (¾ cup): The star grain here, wild rice brings a chewy texture and earthy flavor that sets this soup apart.
Chicken broth (8 cups): Rich broth builds the warm, savory body of the soup and infuses every bite with deep flavor.
Dried thyme (1 tsp): Thyme adds that classic herbal hint that pairs perfectly with chicken dishes.
Salt and black pepper to taste: Seasoning is key to harmonizing all the ingredients into a cohesive, delicious soup.

How to Make Hearty Chicken and Wild Rice Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the diced onion, sliced carrots, and celery. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and fragrant. This step unlocks their natural sweetness and builds a flavorful foundation for the soup.

Step 2: Add Chicken, Rice, and Broth

Next, add the chicken pieces right into the pot along with the wild rice, chicken broth, and dried thyme. These ingredients come together to create the nourishing heart of the soup, promising tender meat and perfectly cooked rice after a gentle simmer.

Step 3: Simmer Until Tender

Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and let it simmer for 45 to 50 minutes. This allows the wild rice to fully cook and the chicken to become tender enough to shred. Stir occasionally to keep everything evenly heated and prevent sticking.

Step 4: Shred the Chicken

Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the pot and shred it into bite-sized pieces using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot and stir well to combine. This brings a lovely protein boost and texture that makes each spoonful satisfying.

Step 5: Season and Serve

Finally, season the soup with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Give it one last stir, then ladle the steaming soup into bowls. This Hearty Chicken and Wild Rice Soup Recipe is now ready to warm you up from the inside out.

How to Serve Hearty Chicken and Wild Rice Soup Recipe

Hearty Chicken and Wild Rice Soup Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

A simple garnish can elevate your soup beautifully. Fresh chopped parsley or thyme brings a fresh herbal brightness, while a swirl of cream adds luscious richness if you want a more indulgent touch. For a touch of heat, sprinkle a few red pepper flakes.

Side Dishes

Pair this hearty soup with crusty whole-grain bread or buttery dinner rolls for dipping. A crisp green salad is a wonderful complement, offering a refreshing contrast to the warm, comforting soup. Even roasted vegetables can round out the meal perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For a rustic, inviting presentation, serve the soup in a hollowed-out bread bowl that soaks up every drop. You can also ladle it into individual mini cocotte dishes for an elegant touch at dinner parties. Garnishing each bowl with a delicate herb sprig invites everyone to savor the aroma before the first bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This soup keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. As the flavors meld overnight, it often tastes even better the next day. Give it a good stir before reheating to redistribute ingredients evenly.

Freezing

The Hearty Chicken and Wild Rice Soup Recipe freezes very well, making it a fantastic option for busy weeks or meal prep. Freeze in portion-sized airtight containers for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results.

Reheating

Reheat the soup gently over low to medium heat on the stove, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and to warm it through evenly. Avoid boiling once reheated to maintain the tenderness of the chicken and texture of the wild rice. You can also reheat in the microwave, stirring halfway through.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of wild rice?

Absolutely! While wild rice lends a distinctive nutty flavor and chewy texture, brown rice is a good substitute that will still offer hearty texture and a slightly different but pleasant flavor profile.

Is it better to use chicken breasts or thighs?

Both work well, but chicken thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful after simmering, which is why many prefer them for this soup. However, breasts are leaner and equally nutritious.

Can I make this soup dairy-free?

Yes! This recipe is naturally dairy-free. If you want to add creaminess, opt for a dairy-free cream or coconut milk, which blends nicely without overpowering the flavors.

How long does the soup keep in the refrigerator?

Stored properly in an airtight container, the soup will stay fresh for 3 days. After that, it’s best to freeze any leftovers to preserve quality and flavor.

Can I add other vegetables to this soup?

Definitely! Feel free to add mushrooms, peas, or even kale for extra nutrition and texture. Just add them towards the end of cooking so they don’t lose their vibrant color and texture.

Final Thoughts

This Hearty Chicken and Wild Rice Soup Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm embrace on a cold day. It’s straightforward to make but offers complex, satisfying flavors and textures that bring comfort and joy with every spoonful. I hope you’ll give this recipe a try soon and find it becoming one of your trusted favorites too.