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Creamy Chicken Wild rice Soup

Creamy Chicken Wild rice Soup - Recipes From Chef

This creamy chicken wild rice soup has a special place in my heart. It’s a hug in a bowl on chilly evenings. The tender chicken, earthy wild rice, and fresh vegetables create a comforting medley. Plus, it’s an easy one-pot meal. 
As a registered dietitian and food enthusiast, I emphasize good nutrition. This soup is a fantastic source of protein, vitamins, and minerals.
Every time I make this soup, I find myself making small adjustments. Sometimes I feel like adding a bit more fresh garlic, while other times I throw in some extra veggies that I have lying around. That’s the beauty of this recipe – it’s authentic yet flexible.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 5
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: American
Calories: 434
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast halves
  • 1 cup chopped yellow onion
  • 1 cup chopped carrots
  • 1 cup chopped celery stalks
  • 6 Tbsp unsalted butter, cut into pieces, divided
  • 1 large garlic clove, finely minced
  • 3/4 cup uncooked wild rice mix
  • 1/2 cup plain all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 cups whole milk
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 4 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken stock
  • 1/4 tsp each of dried thyme, marjoram, sage, and rosemary
  • 1 tsp grated lemon zest
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Method
 

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
  1. Start by placing the chicken breast in a pot with water. Bring it to a boil, cover, and let it simmer until fully cooked—about 15-20 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the meat is no longer pink inside. Remove it and let it rest before shredding.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
  1. In a large soup pot, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Stir occasionally for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables soften. It’s important not to rush this step; it sets the tone for the whole dish.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Cook
  1. Next, toss in your minced garlic. Cook for another minute until fragrant. You’ll want to keep an eye on it, so it doesn’t burn. There’s nothing pleasant about bitter garlic!
Step 4: Incorporate Wild Rice and Stock
  1. Now, it's time to add the uncooked wild rice mix and the low-sodium chicken stock. Bring everything to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer, covered, until the wild rice is cooked. This usually takes about 40-50 minutes.
Step 5: Make It Creamy
  1. In a small saucepan, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour, creating a roux. Let it bubble for a minute or so, then gradually add in the whole milk and heavy cream. Keep whisking until this mixture is smooth and starts to thicken.
Step 6: Combine Everything
  1. Once your wild rice is ready, stir in your creamy mixture from the saucepan. Add the shredded chicken back into the pot.
    Now is the time to season it with herbs, lemon zest, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Taste as you go; you want it just right!
Step 7: Final Simmer
  1. Let everything simmer together for a final 5-10 minutes. This melding of flavors is vital.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
  1. Ladle soup into bowls and optionally, garnish with fresh herbs. Sit down with your loved ones and savor each spoonful. You deserve it!

Notes

  • Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breast: A lean protein source that cooks quickly and absorbs flavors beautifully.
  • Yellow Onion: Adds sweetness and depth to the base, making everything taste like home.
  • Carrots: Provide a mild sweetness and vibrant color, appealing to the eyes and taste buds.
  • Celery: Delivers crunch and complements the savory notes from the chicken broth.
  • Unsalted Butter: Really elevates the creaminess factor; you’ll appreciate this as the flavors mingle.
  • Garlic: Gives depth to the soup. I sometimes add an extra clove for that wonderful punch.
  • Wild Rice Mix: Contains both wild rice and normally some white or brown rice. The diversity in texture is delightful.
  • All-Purpose Flour: We use this to thicken the soup, creating that luscious, velvety consistency.
  • Whole Milk & Heavy Cream: Creates a rich and indulgent texture; it’s the heart of this dish.
  • Low-Sodium Chicken Stock: Essential for flavor; the low-sodium aspect ensures we control how salty the dish becomes.
  • Dried Herbs: These herbs are like the seasoning magician, transforming the soup into a fragrant wonder.
  • Lemon Zest: Brightens up the entire bowl; just a little can go a long way.
  • Smoked Paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness that takes the flavor to another level.