Warm up your kitchen and your heart with this delightful Quick Chicken Wild Rice Soup! Perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a comforting meal in a hurry, this recipe combines tender chicken, hearty wild rice, and a medley of fresh vegetables in a savory broth. In just 40 minutes, you can create a deliciously satisfying dish that will have everyone asking for seconds. Dive into this recipe and discover how easy it is to whip up a bowl of warmth and flavor that will leave you craving more!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup wild rice
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent and softened, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic to the pot and cook for an additional 30-45 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning and release aromatic flavors.
- Pour in chicken broth and add wild rice. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 20-25 minutes until rice is tender and partially cooked.
- Add diced carrots and celery to the pot. Continue simmering for an additional 10 minutes until vegetables are tender but still retain some crispness.
- Stir in shredded cooked chicken, thyme, salt, and pepper. Allow the soup to simmer for another 5 minutes to blend flavors and heat the chicken thoroughly.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt and pepper to suit your preference.
- Remove from heat and let the soup rest for 2-3 minutes before serving. This allows flavors to meld and soup to slightly thicken.
- Ladle into bowls and serve hot, optionally garnishing with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of black pepper.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, chop your vegetables and shred the chicken in advance. This way, you can have everything ready to toss into the pot when you're ready to cook.
- Use Leftover Chicken: This recipe is a fantastic way to use up leftover rotisserie chicken, making it even quicker and more convenient!
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add or substitute vegetables based on what you have on hand. Peas, corn, or even spinach can add extra flavor and nutrition.
- Enhance the Flavor: For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine to the broth or a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.
- Thicken It Up: If you prefer a creamier soup, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream just before serving.
- Garnish for Presentation: A sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as parsley or dill, not only enhances the presentation but also adds a burst of freshness to each bowl.
- Storage Tips: This soup keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days, so make a big batch and enjoy it for lunch or dinner throughout the week!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 70mg
