This Crock Pot Chicken and Wild Rice Soup is the ultimate comfort food. With tender chicken, hearty wild rice, and a medley of fresh vegetables, it’s a perfect dish for chilly evenings or when you’re craving something warm and satisfying. The dried herbs and garlic infuse the broth with rich, savory flavors, while the butter adds just the right amount of richness to balance the dish. Whether you’re serving it to family or delivering it as a meal to someone in need, this soup is sure to nourish both body and soul. It’s simple to make, gluten-free, and can be customized with your favorite vegetables. Plus, it reheats beautifully, making it a great option for meal prepping. Pair it with some gluten-free focaccia or a side salad for a complete, cozy meal.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken breasts
- 1 small onion or large shallot, minced
- 2 carrots, thinly sliced (~1 cup)
- 2 stalks celery, thinly sliced
- 2 garlic cloves, pressed or minced
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon dried ground sage
- Small pinch dried rosemary, crushed between your fingers
- 1 large or 2 small bay leaves
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 3/4 cup wild blend rice (Lundberg Farms recommended)
Directions:
- Add all ingredients into a 6-quart crock pot and stir.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 4 hours or until chicken breasts are cooked through and rice is tender.
- Remove chicken, shred with a fork, and stir it back into the soup.
- Serve hot. The soup will thicken slightly as it cools.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 4 hours | Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
Kcal: 395 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
The Origins of Chicken and Wild Rice Soup
Chicken and rice have long been comfort foods in many cultures, with chicken soup being a universal favorite for its warmth and healing qualities. Wild rice, on the other hand, has its origins in North America, where it was traditionally harvested by Native American tribes. Combining these two ingredients into a creamy, flavorful soup is a match made in culinary heaven. This combination provides not only a delicious blend of flavors but also a great source of protein, fiber, and wholesome carbohydrates.
The slow cooker, or “crock pot,” is an ideal tool for this recipe as it allows the flavors to develop over time, making the soup rich, deep, and hearty without much hands-on effort. This is why Crock Pot Chicken and Wild Rice Soup is such a popular dish: it’s an easy, set-it-and-forget-it meal that’s perfect for busy families, meal prep enthusiasts, or anyone looking for a comforting, homemade meal without the fuss.
Nutritional Benefits and Customizations
This soup isn’t just about comfort—it’s also packed with nutrients. Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair. The wild rice adds fiber and minerals like magnesium, phosphorus, and zinc. Vegetables such as carrots, celery, and onions provide antioxidants, vitamins, and an extra dose of fiber, making this a balanced and nutritious meal. Adding the cream makes the soup richer and more satisfying, but if you’re looking to lighten it up, you can always use half-and-half, coconut milk, or even omit the cream entirely for a broth-based soup.
Customization is easy with this recipe. You can add additional vegetables like mushrooms, peas, or bell peppers to increase the nutrient content and vary the flavor. You can also swap out the chicken for turkey if you have leftovers from a holiday meal or use a different grain like brown rice or farro for a twist on the traditional recipe. A dash of lemon juice or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese just before serving can elevate the flavors and add a burst of freshness.
How to Make It Gluten-Free or Dairy-Free
For those with dietary restrictions, this recipe can be easily modified. If you need a gluten-free option, simply ensure that your chicken broth is certified gluten-free and use cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend to thicken the soup in place of regular flour. If dairy is a concern, you can replace the heavy cream with a dairy-free alternative such as almond milk, cashew cream, or coconut milk, keeping the soup creamy while accommodating dietary needs.
Why Use Wild Rice?
Wild rice, unlike traditional white or brown rice, is not actually a rice but a grain from a type of grass. It has a nutty flavor and a slightly chewy texture, which adds both depth and interest to the soup. It also holds up well to long cooking times, making it an excellent choice for crock pot recipes. Wild rice has a lower glycemic index than white rice, meaning it won’t spike your blood sugar as much and provides longer-lasting energy. Plus, it’s gluten-free and rich in antioxidants.
Perfect Pairings and Serving Suggestions
Crock Pot Chicken and Wild Rice Soup is a versatile dish that can be served in many ways. For a complete meal, consider pairing it with a fresh salad, such as a Caesar salad or a light garden salad with a lemon vinaigrette. A slice of crusty bread, garlic toast, or a warm baguette can be the perfect accompaniment for soaking up the creamy broth. If you prefer a lighter side, consider serving the soup with a side of roasted or steamed vegetables.
For wine lovers, a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light Chardonnay pairs beautifully with the creamy and savory flavors of the soup. For those who enjoy beer, a light ale or a pilsner complements the dish without overpowering its delicate flavors.
Storing and Freezing Instructions
One of the best aspects of this Crock Pot Chicken and Wild Rice Soup is its make-ahead potential. The soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, making it a great option for meal prep. If you plan to freeze the soup, let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months.
When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. If the soup has thickened during storage, you can add a splash of broth, water, or milk to reach your desired consistency.
Tips for the Perfect Crock Pot Chicken and Wild Rice Soup
- Shred the chicken just right: When it’s time to shred the chicken, use two forks and pull apart the meat gently to achieve perfect shreds. If you prefer, you can chop the chicken into small pieces for a chunkier texture.
- Don’t overcook the rice: Wild rice holds up well to slow cooking, but if overcooked, it can become mushy. To prevent this, check the soup around the 6-hour mark if cooking on low, and adjust the cooking time as needed.
- Thickening the soup: The roux (butter and flour mixture) added towards the end of cooking helps to create a creamy consistency. For a lighter option, you can skip the roux and simply stir in some Greek yogurt or sour cream just before serving.
- Season to taste: The flavors of this soup are delicate and comforting, but don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasoning before serving. A pinch of salt, a twist of fresh pepper, or a sprinkle of herbs can enhance the overall flavor.
A Cozy Soup for Every Occasion
Whether you’re looking to cozy up on a cold winter day, prep meals for the week, or feed a crowd with minimal effort, Crock Pot Chicken and Wild Rice Soup is a winner. It’s a family-friendly recipe that’s sure to please even picky eaters, and it’s ideal for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. The long cooking time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, creating a soup that’s both rich and satisfying without being overly heavy.
Variations to Try
If you’re ready to get creative, here are a few variations to make this recipe your own:
- Herbed Mushroom Addition: Add sliced mushrooms along with the other vegetables for an earthy depth of flavor.
- Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicy twist.
- Lemon and Dill Version: Stir in fresh lemon juice and dill at the end for a bright and zesty variation.
- Italian-Style: Use Italian seasoning and add chopped tomatoes or a spoonful of pesto for a Mediterranean flair.
Conclusion:
With this versatile and customizable soup recipe, you can experiment to find your perfect flavor combination and enjoy a warm, hearty meal any time of the year. Enjoy this easy-to-make, flavorful, and nutritious Crock Pot Chicken and Wild Rice Soup that’s sure to become a favorite in your household!
