Chicken Wild Rice Soup (Printable)

Comforting blend of chicken, wild rice, carrots, and herbs in a flavorful, warming broth.

# Components:

→ Proteins

01 - 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced

→ Grains

02 - 3/4 cup uncooked wild rice, rinsed

→ Vegetables

03 - 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
04 - 2 celery stalks, diced
05 - 1 small yellow onion, diced
06 - 2 cloves garlic, minced

→ Liquids

07 - 7 cups low-sodium chicken broth

→ Herbs & Seasonings

08 - 1 bay leaf
09 - 1 teaspoon dried thyme
10 - 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
11 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
12 - 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

→ Fats

13 - 2 tablespoons olive oil

# Directions:

01 - Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion, sliced carrots, and diced celery. Cook for 5 to 6 minutes until vegetables are softened and fragrant.
02 - Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
03 - Add rinsed wild rice, chicken broth, bay leaf, dried thyme, and dried rosemary. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 40 to 45 minutes until rice is tender.
04 - Add cooked shredded chicken to the pot. Simmer for an additional 5 to 8 minutes to heat through.
05 - Remove bay leaf from the pot. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
06 - Ladle soup into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Hearty and wholesome: Packed with lean protein, fiber-rich wild rice, and colorful vegetables, every bowl is as nutritious as it is delicious.
  • Naturally gluten-free: No thickeners or flour needed — the wild rice gives the broth beautiful body all on its own.
  • Easy and approachable: With a simple sauté, a long gentle simmer, and minimal prep, this recipe is perfect for home cooks of any skill level.
  • Great for meal prep: The soup keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for several days and reheats wonderfully, making it an ideal make-ahead meal.
  • Flexible ingredients: Use leftover rotisserie chicken, swap in brown rice, or stir in a splash of cream — this recipe welcomes your personal touch.
02 -
  • Rinse the wild rice: Always rinse uncooked wild rice under cold water before adding it to the pot to remove any excess starch and ensure the best texture.
  • Use rotisserie chicken: Leftover or store-bought rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut — it adds rich flavor and saves prep time.
  • Don't skip the bay leaf: That single bay leaf contributes a subtle depth to the broth that makes a noticeable difference. Just remember to remove it before serving.
  • Adjust broth as needed: Wild rice absorbs liquid as it sits. If the soup thickens too much upon reheating, simply stir in a little extra chicken broth to reach your desired consistency.
  • Check store-bought broth labels: If you are cooking for someone with allergies, read broth labels carefully, as some brands contain soy or gluten.
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