Why You’ll Love Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup Recipe

This Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup is the kind of dish that warms you from the inside out. It’s a hearty, nourishing meal loaded with tender chicken, wholesome wild rice, and vegetables, all enveloped in a velvety, savory broth. The addition of parmesan and a splash of cream gives it richness, while fresh herbs and lemon juice brighten the flavor. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, meal prep, or to fight off the chill of a cold day, this soup checks all the boxes for comfort and nourishment.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, chopped
2 ribs celery, chopped
2 medium carrots, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves (or 2 teaspoons dried)
1 1/2 teaspoons dried oregano
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
6 cups low sodium chicken broth
3/4 cup wild rice
1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
1/2 cup whole milk or cream
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
2 cups chopped kale or spinach
Fresh parsley, for serving (optional)

Directions

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion, celery, and carrots. Cook for about 5 minutes, until vegetables begin to soften.
Add garlic, thyme, oregano, salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Pour in chicken broth and stir in wild rice. Add chicken breasts or thighs. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 45-55 minutes until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked.
Remove the chicken, shred it with two forks, and return it to the pot.
Stir in the milk or cream, parmesan, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice. Let the soup simmer for another 5-10 minutes.
Add chopped kale or spinach and cook until wilted, about 5 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Servings and timing

Yield: 6 servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 55 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Variations

Dairy-Free: Swap cream with coconut milk and omit the parmesan for a dairy-free alternative.
Vegetarian Version: Replace chicken with cannellini beans or chickpeas and use vegetable broth.
Extra Creamy: Add a splash more cream or a tablespoon of cream cheese for extra richness.
Grain Swap: Substitute wild rice with brown rice, farro, or even quinoa for a twist.
More Veggies: Add mushrooms, sweet potatoes, or corn for extra texture and nutrition.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Let the soup cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or water to thin if the soup has thickened.

FAQs

What type of wild rice should I use?

You can use any variety of wild rice or a wild rice blend. Just avoid instant or quick-cooking versions as they’ll get too soft during simmering.

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes. Sauté the veggies first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Add the dairy and greens at the end.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely. Skip the step of cooking raw chicken and add shredded rotisserie chicken after the rice is done.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as all packaged ingredients (like broth and mustard) are certified gluten-free.

Can I use frozen vegetables?

You can use frozen carrots and celery if needed, though fresh will give the best texture.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes, replace the chicken with beans or lentils and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Why is my soup thick the next day?

The wild rice continues to absorb liquid as it sits. Add a little water or broth when reheating to thin it out.

What’s the best way to shred chicken?

Once cooked, use two forks to pull the chicken apart. You can also use a stand mixer with the paddle attachment for faster shredding.

Can I omit the parmesan cheese?

Yes, you can leave it out if needed or substitute with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.

How can I add more flavor?

Try adding a bay leaf during simmering, a splash of white wine before the broth, or more herbs like rosemary or sage.

Conclusion

Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup is a delicious, soul-warming dish that’s perfect for fall and winter nights. With its rich broth, tender chicken, hearty wild rice, and fresh greens, it’s a complete meal in a bowl that’s both nutritious and satisfying. Whether you’re feeding your family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.