Creamy Chicken Wild Rice

Discovering this creamy chicken and wild rice soup felt like uncovering a warm hug in a bowl on a chilly autumn evening. I still remember the first time I made it, the comforting aroma filling my kitchen and promising a delicious meal ahead.

One weekend, when unexpected guests arrived, I whipped this soup up in no time and watched as everyone savored each spoonful, turning strangers into friends around my table.

Ingredients

• Cooked chicken breast: I always use shredded or diced leftovers to save time and keep the flavor tender
• Uncooked wild rice blend: It adds a wonderful nutty texture; rinsing it well helps with cooking evenness
• Low-sodium chicken broth: Using low-sodium lets me control the saltiness as the soup simmers
• Vegetables: Onion, carrots, celery, mushrooms, and garlic build the savory base to that cozy soup feeling
• Butter: Unsalted butter lets me adjust seasoning without surprise saltiness
• Heavy cream and whole milk: They create the soup's signature luscious texture without overwhelming richness
• Flour (all-purpose or gluten-free): It thickens the broth just right; gluten-free works perfectly for sensitive diets
• Seasonings: Thyme, rosemary, bay leaf, salt, black pepper, and fresh parsley bring warmth and freshness together

Instructions

Get Everything Ready:

Start by rinsing the wild rice thoroughly under cold water to remove any excess starch. Prepare your chopped vegetables and shredded chicken to keep the cooking flow smooth.

Build the Flavor Base:

Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat and add the onion, carrots, celery, and mushrooms. Sauté for about 5 to 7 minutes until everything softens leaving a gentle savory smell in the kitchen.

Infuse Aromatics:

Stir in garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Let them cook for about a minute until those fragrant herbs and spices fill the air.

Thicken the Broth:

Sprinkle in the flour and keep stirring for two minutes to cook out the raw taste, creating a smooth roux that will help thicken the soup.

Add Liquids and Rice:

Slowly pour in the chicken broth while stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Then add the wild rice and bay leaf. Bring it to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 40 to 45 minutes until the rice is tender and fluffy.

Finish With Cream and Chicken:

Stir in the shredded chicken, milk, and heavy cream and gently simmer for another 5 to 10 minutes to let all the flavors meld beautifully.

Freshen and Serve:

Remove the bay leaf and stir in fresh parsley. Adjust salt and pepper to taste, then ladle it hot, garnished with extra parsley if you like.

Save

This soup quickly turned into more than just comfort food; it became the centerpiece of our family gatherings, a warm tradition to celebrate togetherness and simple joys.

Keeping It Fresh

Adding fresh parsley right before serving brightens the flavor and adds that vibrant green touch that makes the soup feel lively and homey.

When You're Missing Something

If you find yourself short on fresh herbs, dried rosemary and thyme still bring warmth—just be sure to adjust quantities for a balanced taste without overwhelming the soup.

Serving Ideas That Clicked

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty gluten-free bread or a light side salad to round out a cozy meal.

• Don't forget to stir occasionally while simmering to prevent sticking
• Leftovers taste even better the next day once flavors mingle
• Freeze in portions for a quick, nourishing meal anytime you need it

Save

Thanks for hanging out and cooking along—I hope this soup brings as much warmth and comfort to your kitchen as it has to mine.

Recipe FAQs

→ How should I prepare the wild rice for best results?

Rinse the wild rice thoroughly under cold water before cooking. Simmer it gently in broth until tender to maximize flavor absorption and texture.

→ Can I substitute ingredients for dietary restrictions?

For a gluten-free version, replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free alternative. You can also use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter finish.

→ What is the best method for sautéing the vegetables?

Sauté chopped onions, carrots, celery, and mushrooms in butter over medium heat until softened, about 5-7 minutes, to develop rich flavors.

→ How do the herbs contribute to the overall flavor?

Dried thyme and rosemary add woody, aromatic notes that complement the creamy base, while fresh parsley brightens the dish just before serving.

→ What are some tips to enhance the soup’s richness?

Gradually stir in flour to thicken the broth without lumps, and simmer gently with cream and milk to achieve a velvety texture that coats each ingredient.

→ Can leftover cooked chicken be used effectively?

Yes, shredded or diced leftover chicken works well, adding convenience without sacrificing the hearty texture of the dish.