Save It Creamy chicken and wild rice soup is the kind of cozy bowl you crave on a blustery day. It comes together in one pot with just a handful of kitchen staples and has that perfect blend of hearty texture and soothing richness. Whether you are looking for a fast weeknight dinner or something soothing to sip by the fire, this recipe delivers old-fashioned comfort with minimal effort.
I first whipped this up when everyone came in from a snowy sledding session asking for something hot and filling. Since then, it is stayed on repeat every winter in my kitchen.
Ingredients
- Canned wild rice soup: acts as a creamy shortcut base and gives flavor right from the start choose a high quality soup for the best result
- Shredded cooked chicken: offers protein and hearty texture rotisserie chicken works perfectly
- Milk: adds creaminess use whole milk for richness or your favorite substitute
- Shredded carrots: give the soup sweetness and a pop of color freshly shredded is best for tenderness
- Diced celery: provides savory crunch always opt for firm stalks with vibrant color
Instructions
- Gather and Measure:
- Before you start get every ingredient measured out this makes for a stress free cooking process
- Combine Soup and Milk:
- Pour the canned wild rice soup and milk into your soup pot Heat gently over medium stir frequently and wait for tiny bubbles to form around the edge but do not let it boil
- Add Chicken and Vegetables:
- Stir in the shredded chicken shredded carrots and diced celery Use a wooden spoon to keep everything moving and make sure the chicken breaks up and the vegetables get evenly distributed let the pot simmer uncovered for about ten minutes until the vegetables are just tender
- Season and Serve:
- Taste then season with a little salt and pepper or your favorite herbs if you wish Ladle into bowls and serve piping hot
Save It I love the wild rice in this soup because it adds an earthy flavor and a chewy bite that you just cannot get from white rice It reminds me of family trips to Minnesota where wild rice was always on the table When I make this soup now the aroma immediately brings back those cozy kitchen memories
Storage Tips
Let any leftover soup cool completely then store it in an airtight container in the fridge It keeps well for up to three days For longer storage pour into a freezer safe container leaving an inch for expansion freeze for up to three months Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat slowly on the stove adding extra milk if it thickens after chilling
Ingredient Substitutions
If you need this recipe to be gluten free seek out a gluten free canned wild rice soup Dairy allergy Simply swap in a creamy oat or soy milk instead of cow milk For extra veggies try stirring in some frozen peas or baby spinach during the last minute of simmering They will wilt perfectly and add color
Serving Suggestions
Round out your meal by serving this soup with warm crusty bread or a simple green salad A sprinkle of chopped parsley or a few snips of green onion over each bowl adds freshness If you want to dress it up set out a toppings bar with shredded cheese crumbled bacon or crispy fried onions
Cultural and Historical Context
Wild rice is native to North America especially the Great Lakes region It is not actually a rice but an aquatic grass Traditionally harvested by indigenous peoples it has found its way into countless Midwestern comfort foods Today it is loved for its nutty flavor and healthful qualities
Seasonal Adaptations
- Add diced butternut squash in autumn for sweeter flavor
- Stir in chopped kale or spinach for a touch of green
- Toss in frozen corn kernels if you want something extra during the summer months
Success Stories
One of my friends made this soup for a new mom and it became her go to meal prep solution for busy weeks Another neighbor liked it so much she made double batches all winter This is truly a soup that wins over every taste tester
Freezer Meal Conversion
To freeze make the recipe as written excluding the milk or dairy substitute Cool and freeze up to three months When ready to use thaw gently on the stove and add milk just before serving This keeps the texture silky and prevents separation
Save It This creamy, soothing wild rice soup will keep everyone cozy whether it is a snowy day or just a busy weeknight. The easy prep means you can enjoy comfort food with hardly any hassle.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I substitute fresh chicken for pre-cooked?
Yes, simply cook and shred fresh chicken breast or thighs prior to adding it in the simmering step.
- → Is this suitable for gluten-free diets?
Confirm the wild rice soup base is gluten-free by checking the label, as some brands may contain gluten.
- → How do I make this dairy-free?
Replace the milk with your favorite plant-based alternative like almond or oat milk for a dairy-free version.
- → What vegetables can I add or swap?
Try adding mushrooms, spinach, or green peas. Adjust cooking time for firmer or softer vegetables.
- → Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, let the soup cool completely, divide into airtight containers, and freeze up to two months for future meals.