Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup Recipe

This Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup Recipe is a comforting and hearty dish, perfect for chilly days. It combines tender chicken, wild rice, and a creamy broth, making it a satisfying meal for the whole family.

Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup Recipe

Ingredients

For the Soup:Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup Recipe

• 6 tablespoons butter
• 1 cup onion, diced (about 1 medium onion)
• 1/2 cup carrot, diced (about 2 medium carrots)
• 1/2 cup celery, diced (about 2 stalks)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth
• 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
• 1 (6-ounce) package long grain and wild rice blend, cooked according to package instructions
• 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works well)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for brightness)

Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup Recipe

Instructions

Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup Recipe

1. Sauté the Vegetables:

• In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat.
• Add the diced onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes or until the vegetables are softened.
• Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

2. Make the Roux:

• Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables and stir to combine. Cook for about 2-3 minutes to form a roux, stirring constantly.

3. Add Broth and Cream:

• Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, ensuring there are no lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
• Stir in the heavy cream and continue to cook until the soup thickens slightly.

4. Incorporate Rice and Chicken:

• Add the cooked wild rice blend and shredded chicken to the pot. Stir until well combined.
• Season with salt, black pepper, and dried thyme if using. Let it simmer for about 5-10 minutes to heat through.

5. Finish and Serve:

• If desired, add lemon juice for brightness before serving.
• Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy warm!

Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup Recipe

Tips for Success

• Chicken: For a quicker option, use rotisserie chicken or pre-cooked chicken.
• Rice: You can substitute wild rice with brown rice or white rice if preferred.
• Storage: This soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It also freezes well; just be aware that cream-based soups can change texture when frozen.

Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup Recipe

Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup is a comforting, hearty dish, and with a few simple adjustments, it can be packed with extra protein to make it even more nutritious. This classic soup is already rich in protein thanks to the chicken, but there are several ways to enhance it further. Start by using chicken breast, which is leaner and higher in protein than thighs or drumsticks. You can also add shredded chicken at the end of the cooking process for an extra dose of protein without altering the soup’s creamy consistency.

Another great way to boost protein is by incorporating Greek yogurt or cottage cheese into the base instead of heavy cream. Both options add creaminess and a protein punch, making the soup healthier without sacrificing its velvety texture.

You can also mix in a scoop of unflavored protein powder into the broth for an invisible protein boost. This works especially well if you’re looking to up your intake without changing the flavor.

Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup Recipe

To increase plant-based protein, add legumes like white beans or chickpeas. These additions blend seamlessly with the wild rice and add texture while also bringing more fiber and nutrients to the dish.

Wild rice itself is already a great source of protein compared to regular white rice, so it’s a fantastic base for this soup.

Finally, consider using bone broth instead of regular chicken stock. Bone broth is rich in collagen and additional proteins that can further enhance the nutritional value of your soup.

With these protein-packed ingredients, your Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup becomes a well-rounded meal that’s not only delicious but also great for muscle recovery, providing sustained energy and keeping you fuller for longer. Perfect for cozy dinners or meal prepping throughout the week!

This creamy chicken and wild rice soup is not only easy to make but also packed with flavor! Enjoy this comforting dish any time of year!