Hearty Chicken and Wild Rice Soup - Comfort in a Bowl ( chicken wild rice soup, creamy chicken soup, and winter soup recipes )
When winter days get chilly and cold winds bite, nothing beats the cozy comfort of a piping hot bowl of chicken and wild rice soup. Perfect for when you're feeling under the weather or simply need a little warmth, this soup delivers more than just heat. With tender, slow-cooked chicken and the distinct texture of wild rice, it brings robust flavors to the table. While some chicken soups can be bland, this version packs a punch, and the wild rice adds a delightful chewiness that perfectly complements the creaminess of the broth.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
This chicken and wild rice soup is anything but boring. The moist, tender chicken melds seamlessly with the slightly firm wild rice, which holds up beautifully in the slow cooker. Don't let the long cook time of wild rice deter you—this recipe makes the most of it! If you have leftover turkey from a holiday feast, feel free to substitute it for the chicken. You’ll still end up with a deliciously rich and satisfying soup that’s worth every bit of effort.
Ingredients You'll Need
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 small carrots, chopped
- 1 pound button mushrooms, sliced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (or turkey)
- 1 cup wild rice, rinsed in cold water
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
Instructions
Prep Your Slow Cooker: Begin by coating the inside of your slow cooker pot with cooking spray, brushing it with oil, or using a slow cooker liner to prevent sticking.
Sauté the Vegetables: In a medium skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the chopped onions and carrots, and sauté until softened, about 4 minutes.
Add Mushrooms and Herbs: Stir in the sliced mushrooms, dried thyme, and dried sage. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Continue cooking for an additional 3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Slow Cook: Transfer the sautéed vegetables and herbs to your slow cooker pot. Add the chicken broth, shredded chicken (or turkey), and rinsed wild rice. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 5 hours.
Finish with Cream: Once the soup is done cooking, uncover and stir in the heavy cream for a velvety, rich finish. Serve the soup warm and enjoy its comforting, hearty goodness.
Tips for Success
Wild Rice Perfection: Wild rice may take longer to cook than other grains, but the slow cooker is ideal for it. Just be sure to rinse it in cold water to remove excess starch, which will help it cook evenly.
Adding Protein: Feel free to use turkey instead of chicken if that's what you have on hand. Both work wonderfully in this dish, making it a great recipe for using up leftovers.
Make It Creamy: If you want an even creamier soup, increase the amount of heavy cream, or stir in a bit of sour cream or Greek yogurt when serving.