Warm up your kitchen and your soul with a hearty bowl of Chicken Wild Rice Soup! This creamy, comforting dish is not just a meal; it's a delightful experience that will have your family and friends coming back for seconds. Imagine the rich flavors of tender chicken mingling with the nutty wild rice, all enveloped in a luscious cream broth. Perfect for chilly evenings or cozy gatherings, this recipe will soon become a staple in your home. Ready to uncover the secrets to this irresistible soup? Let’s dive in!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 20 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, cooked and shredded
- 1 cup wild rice
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken by seasoning with salt and pepper, then bake or grill until fully cooked through. Once cooled, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces using two forks.
- In a large pot, heat a small amount of olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions, diced carrots, and diced celery. Sauté the vegetables until the onions become translucent and soft, approximately 5-7 minutes.
- Add the wild rice to the pot and stir with the vegetables. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for about 45-50 minutes, or until the wild rice is tender and has started to burst open.
- Once the rice is cooked, add the shredded chicken to the pot and stir to combine. Allow the chicken to heat through for 2-3 minutes.
- Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously to integrate it smoothly into the soup. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
- Simmer the soup for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. If the soup seems too thick, you can add a little more chicken broth to reach desired consistency.
- Remove from heat and let the soup rest for 5 minutes before serving. Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs like parsley if desired.
Tips
- Perfectly Cooked Chicken: For the best flavor, consider marinating your chicken breast in your favorite herbs and spices before cooking. This will infuse the meat with extra taste.
- Wild Rice Cooking: Wild rice can take longer to cook than regular rice, so be patient! Ensure you check for doneness by tasting a few grains; they should be tender and slightly chewy.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to customize the vegetable mix! Adding mushrooms or spinach can enhance the flavor and nutrition of your soup.
- Creaminess Control: If you prefer a lighter soup, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with low-fat milk or even a plant-based cream alternative.
- Make Ahead: This soup stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days, and the flavors deepen over time. Just reheat gently and add a splash of broth if it thickens too much.
- Garnish for Flair: Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme not only add a pop of color but also elevate the flavor profile. A sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper can also enhance the dish.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair your soup with crusty bread or a simple side salad for a complete meal that will satisfy everyone at the table.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 110mg
