Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup – Family Style is the epitome of comfort food, perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings! This hearty dish features tender chicken, wholesome wild rice, and fresh vegetables all simmered in a creamy broth that’s rich and satisfying. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it a favorite for busy weeknights while still being a crowd-pleaser for family dinners!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients
How to Make
Tips for Making
Make-Ahead Instructions
Storing Leftovers
Freezing
Reheating
Serving Suggestions
FAQs
Try these related recipes next!
Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Soup
One-Pot Chicken and Rice
Vegetable and Wild Rice Soup
Classic Chicken Noodle Soup

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Perfect Comfort Food. This soup is packed with flavor and rich in nutrients, making it the ideal bowl to warm you up on a cold day!
Quick and Easy Preparation. With minimal prep time and simple ingredients, this recipe is straightforward and perfect for any home cook!
Family-Friendly. The creamy texture and delicious flavor profile make this soup a hit among both kids and adults!

Ingredients for Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Olive Oil: Used for sautéing the vegetables to add flavor without making the soup greasy.
Chicken Breast: Provides a hearty protein source; use boneless, skinless chicken for convenience.
Carrots and Celery: Adds freshness and crunch, contributing to the overall flavor of the soup.
Onion: Enhances the soup base with aromatic sweetness.
Wild Rice: This unique rice variety gives the soup a nutty flavor and chewy texture.
Chicken Broth: Forms the soup’s savory base; homemade or store-bought both work well.
Heavy Cream: Emulsifies the ingredients and adds a luscious, creamy texture to the soup.
Garlic: Adds depth; don’t hesitate to increase for an extra kick!
Thyme: Fresh or dried thyme offers a wonderful herbal note.
Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste.

How to Make Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions, carrots, and celery, cook for about 5 minutes until softened.
Add minced garlic; stir for another minute until fragrant.
Include diced chicken breast; cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
Sprinkle in wild rice and dried thyme, then pour in chicken broth; bring to a boil.
Reduce heat, cover, and let simmer for about 30 minutes until the rice is tender.
Stir in heavy cream, and season with salt and pepper. Let simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Tips for Making Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables enhance the overall taste and health benefits of your soup.
Adjust the Cream: For a lighter soup, reduce the amount of heavy cream or substitute half-and-half.
Chicken Variation: Rotisserie chicken or leftover turkey can be used for a quicker alternative.

Make-Ahead Instructions

Prep the vegetables and proteins in advance and store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator.
You can also cook the soup a day before, cool it completely, and refrigerate it for a streamlined dinner on busy nights.

Storing Leftovers

Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through.

Freezing Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup

Let the soup cool completely, then portion into airtight containers or freezer bags, removing excess air.
Label and date the containers, and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup

Place the soup in a pot over low heat, stirring gently until warmed through.
If using the microwave, heat in intervals, stirring between until hot.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with crusty bread or soft dinner rolls for dipping.
Pair with a simple side salad for a complete meal.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of wild rice?

Yes, but adjust the cooking time as brown rice typically takes longer to cook than wild rice.

How do I store leftover soup?

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Can I make this soup a vegetarian option?

Yes, substitute the chicken with mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

What goes well with this soup?

This soup pairs wonderfully with garlic bread or a fresh garden salad.

Can I use frozen vegetables in this recipe?

Absolutely! Just add them in the last 10 minutes of cooking to ensure they’re heated through.

Did you love this recipe?

Please leave a 5-star rating and review below!

FOLLOW ME ON PINTEREST!

Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup – Family Style

Table of Contents