Creamy Chicken Wild Rice Soup: A Hearty & Healthy Homemade Recipe

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this exquisite Creamy Chicken Wild Rice Soup. It’s a rich, thick, and satisfying soup designed to warm your soul and nourish your body. This recipe proves that hearty can also be healthy, offering a guilt-free way to enjoy a classic American favorite.

For me, chicken wild rice soup isn’t just a meal; it’s a nostalgic journey back to my roots. Growing up in Minnesota, the land synonymous with authentic wild rice, cultivated a deep appreciation for this unique grain. It’s no exaggeration to say that this particular soup holds the top spot in my hierarchy of comfort foods. While other contenders like a robust Potato Corn Chowder certainly rank high, the distinctive texture and nutty flavor of wild rice are simply unparalleled. If I ever spot a chicken wild rice soup on a restaurant menu, it’s an immediate must-try for me, always searching for that perfect rendition.

This beloved recipe for homemade chicken wild rice soup has been a cherished fixture in our family’s winter menu for well over fifteen years. Its origins are a bit hazy, but I recall discovering it in one of my mom’s “light cooking” magazines—a testament to its surprisingly wholesome nature. Over the years, it has become a go-to, not just for its incredible taste, but also for its ability to bring warmth and joy on the coldest of days. It’s more than just a recipe; it’s a tradition that continues to bring smiles and comfort.

Unlocking the Health Benefits of Homemade Wild Rice Soup

When considering whether a creamy soup can be healthy, the answer largely lies in its preparation and ingredient choices. Many traditional creamy soups rely heavily on high-fat dairy products, but this homemade chicken wild rice soup offers a delightful, healthier alternative. It’s built on a foundation of nutrient-dense vegetables and lean protein, ensuring every spoonful is packed with goodness without compromising on flavor or satisfying texture.

The base of this hearty soup features the classic mirepoix of carrots, celery, and onions, which are gently sautéed to release their natural sweetness and savory aromas. These foundational vegetables provide essential vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber, contributing significantly to the soup’s overall nutritional value. The choice of wild rice itself is a major health advantage; it’s a whole grain known for its high protein content, complex carbohydrates, and various micronutrients, offering sustained energy and a satisfyingly chewy texture. Instead of heavy cream or full-fat milk, this recipe thoughtfully incorporates evaporated milk. Evaporated milk provides an incredibly rich and velvety texture identical to what you’d expect from a traditional creamy soup, yet it boasts significantly lower fat and calorie counts. This clever substitution allows you to enjoy a luxurious, thick soup without feeling heavy or guilty, making it a perfect choice for those seeking a comforting yet health-conscious meal. It’s an approach similar to other health-conscious recipes, such as a wholesome Curried Butternut Squash Soup, which also achieves creamy perfection through smart, lighter ingredient choices.

Essential Ingredients for Your Perfect Creamy Chicken Wild Rice Soup

Crafting this deeply satisfying creamy wild rice soup requires a simple list of fresh, wholesome ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in building the soup’s rich flavor and comforting texture, making sure every bite is a delightful experience:

• Carrots: One large carrot, finely shredded or diced, adds a touch of natural sweetness and vibrant color, while also boosting the soup’s nutritional value with essential vitamins.
• Onion: A large, finely chopped onion forms the aromatic base of the soup, contributing a foundational savory depth that is essential for any truly great homemade soup.
• Celery: One celery rib, chopped into small pieces, provides a subtle peppery note and a classic texture to the foundational mirepoix, balancing the sweetness of the carrots.
• Butter: A quarter cup of butter is used to sauté the vegetables and create a rich, flavorful roux, laying the groundwork for the soup’s luxurious and creamy consistency.
• Flour: Half a cup of all-purpose flour acts as the primary thickening agent. It binds with the butter to form the roux, which gives the soup its desirable velvety body without being overly thick.
• Chicken Broth: Eight cups of quality chicken broth serve as the savory liquid heart of the soup, infusing it with rich chicken flavor. Opt for a low-sodium variety to best control the overall saltiness of your dish.
• Wild Rice: Three and a half cups of cooked wild rice are undeniably the star of this dish. It is crucial to use genuine wild rice for its distinct nutty flavor and satisfyingly chewy texture, which truly sets this soup apart from versions made with less flavorful rice blends.
• Chicken: One pound of cooked and chopped chicken provides the lean protein element. This recipe is wonderfully versatile, perfect for repurposing leftover roast chicken or a convenient store-bought rotisserie chicken, saving you precious cooking time.
• Poultry Seasoning: One teaspoon of poultry seasoning brings a harmonious blend of traditional herbs and spices, specifically chosen to enhance the savory profile of the chicken and the overall broth.
• Dried Thyme: Half a teaspoon of dried thyme adds an earthy, slightly floral aroma that beautifully complements the other robust flavors in the soup, providing a classic comforting note.
• Salt & Pepper: Half a teaspoon each of salt and freshly ground black pepper are essential for seasoning, allowing you to fine-tune the flavors to your personal preference and bring all the ingredients into perfect harmony.
• Evaporated Milk: One cup of fat-free evaporated milk is the secret ingredient to achieving the soup’s signature creaminess without the added fat and calories often found in heavy cream. It delivers a smooth, velvety finish that makes the soup incredibly indulgent.
• Garnish (Optional): Fresh parsley or chives, finely chopped, can be added just before serving for a vibrant pop of color and a fresh, aromatic herbal finish that brightens the entire dish.

Freezing and Storing Your Homemade Chicken Wild Rice Soup

One of the many fantastic advantages of this creamy chicken wild rice soup recipe is its remarkable freezer-friendliness, making it an ideal choice for efficient meal prepping and ensuring you have a quick, comforting dinner ready on even the busiest of nights. This recipe typically yields around 8 generous servings, which is often more than enough for immediate consumption for most families. We frequently enjoy about half of the fresh batch and then thoughtfully freeze the remainder for a convenient meal later in the month, effectively saving significant time and effort on another cooking session.

To successfully freeze your homemade soup, it is crucial to ensure it has cooled completely to room temperature before transferring it. Portion the cooled soup into airtight, freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. If using freezer bags, lay them flat on a baking sheet in the freezer until the soup is solid; this method not only maximizes freezer space but also allows for quicker and more even thawing later. When you’re ready to enjoy this delicious meal, simply remove the frozen soup from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight, or for several hours during the day. For reheating, gently warm the soup in a large pot on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent any scorching, until it is thoroughly heated through and simmering. This preparation and storage method ensures that the soup maintains its creamy texture and delicious flavor, offering a comforting and wholesome meal with minimal effort on your part.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making This Delicious Creamy Chicken Wild Rice Soup

For the exact quantities of each ingredient and a convenient printable version of this recipe, please refer to the detailed recipe card at the bottom of this page.

1. Prepare the Vegetable Base: Begin by melting 1/4 cup of butter in a large stock pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once the butter is shimmering and melted, add the finely chopped large onion, shredded large carrot, and chopped celery. Sauté these aromatic vegetables for approximately 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become tender and the onion turns translucent. This initial step is crucial for building the foundational savory flavor of your soup.
2. Form the Roux: Next, evenly sprinkle 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour over the softened vegetables in the pot. Stir continuously for about 1 to 2 minutes, ensuring the flour is thoroughly incorporated with the butter and vegetables. This process creates a smooth roux, which will serve as the primary thickening agent for your soup, contributing to its luxurious body.
3. Incorporate the Broth: Gradually and slowly whisk in 8 cups of chicken broth. Pour in a small amount at a time, whisking vigorously after each addition, until the mixture is completely smooth and free of any flour clumps. This careful, slow addition prevents lumps and ensures a beautifully silky, consistent soup base.
4. Add Main Components and Seasonings: Stir in the 3 1/2 cups of cooked wild rice, 1 pound of chopped cooked chicken, 1 teaspoon of poultry seasoning, 1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of pepper. Ensure all these ingredients are evenly distributed and well combined throughout the broth.
5. Thicken the Soup: Bring the entire soup mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat. Once it reaches a boil, immediately reduce the heat to a steady simmer and let it cook for a few minutes, stirring occasionally. During this time, the roux will work its magic, and the soup will begin to thicken to your desired consistency, developing a luscious, hearty texture.
6. Achieve Signature Creaminess: Reduce the heat to low. Stir in 1 cup of fat-free evaporated milk. Allow the soup to cook for an additional 3 to 5 minutes, heating it through thoroughly. It is important to avoid bringing the soup to a full boil after adding the milk, as this can sometimes cause the milk to separate or curdle.
7. Garnish and Serve: Once heated through and perfectly creamy, ladle the hot, comforting chicken wild rice soup into individual serving bowls. For an appealing presentation and a burst of fresh flavor, garnish with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or chives, if desired. Serve immediately and savor every comforting spoonful of this delicious homemade creation!

Perfect Pairings: What to Serve with Your Comforting Wild Rice Soup

While this creamy chicken wild rice soup is wonderfully substantial and can certainly stand alone as a complete meal, pairing it with a few simple sides can elevate your dining experience and create a truly memorable spread. Here are some fantastic options that beautifully complement its rich flavors and creamy texture:

• Honey Butter Dinner Rolls: Soft, fluffy dinner rolls brushed with a sweet honey butter glaze are an absolutely irresistible accompaniment. Their tender crumb and slight sweetness are perfect for dipping into the soup and soaking up every last drop of the delicious, creamy broth.
• Warm, Soft Breadsticks: Whether you opt for homemade breadsticks or a convenient store-bought variety similar to classic Olive Garden style breadsticks, their chewy texture and mild flavor make them a quintessential soup companion. They provide a delightful textural contrast and are excellent for scooping up the hearty ingredients.
• Simple Tossed Green Salad: A light and crisp green salad, dressed with a bright vinaigrette, offers a refreshing and invigorating contrast to the hearty and creamy nature of the soup. It adds a welcome burst of freshness and helps to balance the richness of the meal.
• Parmesan Garlic Knots: These savory, aromatic garlic knots, often dusted with a generous sprinkling of Parmesan cheese, are a flavorful and fun side dish. Their garlicky kick and soft texture pair wonderfully with the soup, adding an extra layer of deliciousness to your dinner.

This creamy chicken and wild rice soup isn’t just a recipe; it’s a legacy of warmth, comfort, and deliciousness passed down through the years in our family. It stands as the ideal meal for those chilly evenings when all you desire is a deeply comforting bowl of something truly satisfying to warm you from the inside out. Prepare to make this hearty and wholesome soup your new favorite winter staple!

Expert Tips and Delicious Variations for Your Wild Rice Soup

Master this creamy chicken wild rice soup with these insider tips and explore exciting variations to personalize it and make it truly your own:

• Prioritize Real Wild Rice: To achieve the authentic, robust flavor and satisfying chewy texture that genuinely defines this soup, always opt for pure wild rice. Avoid blends that contain only a small percentage of wild rice, as they won’t deliver the same depth or consistent quality. You can typically find genuine wild rice alongside other specialty grains in most well-stocked grocery stores. While it may be slightly more expensive, its distinct quality truly justifies the cost for this exceptional soup; it makes all the difference!
• Smart Chicken Choices for Convenience: This recipe is incredibly versatile when it comes to the chicken component. It’s a fantastic and efficient way to utilize leftover cooked chicken from a previous meal, whether it’s roasted chicken, gently poached breasts, or flavorful thighs. For ultimate convenience on a busy day, a store-bought rotisserie chicken is an excellent shortcut; simply shred or dice the meat and incorporate it into the soup. If you prefer to cook raw chicken, you can poach chicken breasts directly in the broth before starting the recipe, then shred and add them back in.
• Customize Your Creaminess: The recipe thoughtfully calls for fat-free evaporated milk to provide a lighter, yet still wonderfully creamy, texture that everyone will love. However, feel free to adjust the dairy based on your dietary preferences or desired richness. For a more indulgent and decadent soup, you can substitute with half-and-half or even heavy cream, which will result in an even richer, thicker consistency (just be mindful of the increased fat and calorie content). For a slightly thinner, but still creamy, option, regular whole milk can also be used, though it might alter the richness slightly.
• Effortless Slow Cooker Adaptation: Transform this stovetop classic into a convenient, hands-off meal using your crockpot or slow cooker. This method is perfect for busy days when you want a warm, comforting meal with minimal active cooking time:
  1. Begin by adding all ingredients *except* the butter, flour, and evaporated milk directly into your slow cooker. If you are using raw chicken (breasts or thighs), dice them and add them at this initial stage; they will cook perfectly in the broth.
  2. Cook on the LOW setting for approximately 6 hours, or on HIGH for 3-4 hours, until the wild rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked through and easily shreddable.
  3. Once the cooking cycle is complete, carefully remove the cooked chicken from the crockpot and shred or chop it into bite-sized pieces. Set it aside temporarily.
  4. In a separate small saucepan on your stovetop, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to form a smooth, light brown roux.
  5. Slowly whisk in the evaporated milk (or your preferred milk/cream option) into the roux in the saucepan. Continue to cook and stir for another 1-2 minutes until this mixture thickens slightly and is smooth.
  6. Pour this creamy thickened milk mixture back into the slow cooker with the soup base. Return the shredded chicken to the pot. Stir everything thoroughly to combine all the delicious flavors and ensure a uniform creamy texture.
  7. Allow it to heat through for another 15-20 minutes on low, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully, then serve and enjoy your effortlessly delicious slow-cooked meal!
• Boost with Additional Vegetables: Enhance the nutritional profile and add more texture and flavor by incorporating extra vegetables. Sliced mushrooms, tender green peas, vibrant corn kernels, or a handful of fresh spinach (stirred in during the last few minutes of cooking until just wilted) are all excellent additions that complement the soup beautifully.
• Herbaceous Twists for Depth: While dried thyme and poultry seasoning provide a wonderful, classic flavor, feel free to experiment with other herbs to introduce new aromatic dimensions. A touch of dried rosemary, a bay leaf added during the simmering stage (and removed before serving), or a sprinkle of fresh sage can elevate the soup’s profile, especially if you’re aiming for a more complex, almost holiday-inspired flavor.

More Comforting Soup Recipes to Explore

If you’ve fallen in love with the comforting embrace of this creamy chicken wild rice soup, then you’re in for a treat! Discover more delightful and warming soup recipes from our extensive collection that are perfect for any occasion, from quick weeknight dinners to cozy weekend gatherings:

• Hearty Chicken Pozole Verde
• Rich & Creamy Chicken Tortellini Soup
• Easy & Flavorful Taco Soup
• Decadent Beer Cheese Soup
• Quick Instant Pot White Chicken Chili
• Speedy Instant Pot Tortilla Soup
• Classic Italian Tomato Tortellini Soup
• Authentic New England Clam Chowder

4.61 from 23 votes

Creamy Chicken Wild Rice Soup

By Erin Sellin

Creamy Chicken Wild Rice Soup – a thick and creamy wild rice soup that will warm you up and not leave you feeling guilty! So hearty but actually good for you too.

Prep: 5 mins

Cook: 35 mins

Total: 40 mins

Servings: 8

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Equipment

• Pot and Pan Set
• Cutting Boards

Ingredients

• 1 large onion, chopped
• 1 large carrot, shredded
• 1 celery rib, chopped
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1/2 cup flour
• 8 cups chicken broth
• 3 1/2 cups cooked wild rice
• 1 pound chicken, cooked and chopped
• 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 1 cup fat free evaporated milk
• Parsley or chives for garnish, optional

Instructions

1. In a large stock pot melt butter over medium heat. Add onions, carrots and celery and cook for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are soft.
2. Stir in flour and mix until blended, cooking for a minute or two.
3. Slowly whisk in broth, until it is blended and there are not any clumps.
4. Stir in cooked rice, chicken, poultry seasoning, thyme, salt and pepper.
5. Bring to boil over medium heat. Cook for a few minutes until the soup starts to thicken.
6. Stir in milk and cook for 3-5 minutes.
7. Garnish with parsley or chives.

Notes

Any form of milk or cream will work in place of the evaporated milk for varying richness.

Nutrition

Serving: 1g |
Calories: 345kcal |
Carbohydrates: 28g |
Protein: 21g |
Fat: 16g |
Saturated Fat: 7g |
Polyunsaturated Fat: 7g |
Cholesterol: 83mg |
Sodium: 1199mg |
Fiber: 2g |
Sugar: 6g

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

Additional Info

Author: Erin Sellin

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 35 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

Course: Dinner Recipes

Cuisine: American

Servings: 8

Calories: 345

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