The comfort of homemade soup never goes out of style, and this Chicken and Wild Rice Soup is no exception. A velvety blend of tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and chewy wild rice, all brought together with a creamy broth, makes this a standout meal for any night of the week. It’s a true balance of cozy flavor and satisfying texture.
Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner or a make-ahead meal to reheat on busy days, this soup delivers both convenience and comfort. Plus, it’s versatile enough to dress up with herbs or serve as-is. Pair it with crusty bread or a side salad for a full, nourishing meal that warms the soul.
Full Recipe:
-
1 tablespoon butter
-
1 small onion, chopped
-
1 stalk celery, chopped
-
1 (8 ounce) package sliced mushrooms
-
1 teaspoon minced garlic
-
1 cup wild rice, cooked
-
2 cups cooked, chopped chicken
-
1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
-
2 cups chicken broth
-
½ cup half-and-half cream
-
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
-
In a large pot over medium heat, melt butter and sauté onion and celery until tender, about 5 minutes.
-
Add mushrooms and garlic, sauté for another 5–7 minutes until mushrooms are softened.
-
Stir in cooked wild rice and chopped chicken.
-
Pour in cream of mushroom soup and chicken broth, stirring until combined.
-
Bring to a gentle simmer, reduce heat and cook for 10 minutes.
-
Stir in half-and-half cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
-
Simmer another 5 minutes until heated through. Serve warm.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
The Appeal of Chicken and Wild Rice Soup
What makes Chicken and Wild Rice Soup so appealing is its versatility and crowd-pleasing nature. It’s comforting enough to serve on a rainy day, yet elegant enough to be part of a holiday meal. The wild rice adds a slightly earthy and chewy texture that distinguishes this soup from others like classic chicken noodle or creamy mushroom varieties. It’s a one-pot wonder that’s easy to prepare and can feed a family or be saved for multiple meals through the week. The creamy base, often made with a blend of broth and dairy or non-dairy alternatives, brings all the flavors together in a velvety finish.
Nutritional Highlights
This soup is rich in protein from the chicken and contains essential fiber and nutrients from the wild rice. Wild rice is known for its high levels of antioxidants and B vitamins, and it’s lower in calories than many traditional grains. Depending on the recipe variation, this soup can be made lighter by using low-fat dairy or even coconut milk. Vegetables such as carrots, celery, onions, and mushrooms add both nutrition and depth of flavor. It’s a wholesome option for anyone looking for a balanced, comforting meal.
Origins and Evolution
While the exact origin of Chicken and Wild Rice Soup is hard to pinpoint, its roots are closely tied to Midwestern cuisine in the United States, especially in Minnesota, where wild rice is a native grain and deeply valued ingredient. Over time, this soup has evolved to include a variety of ingredients and preparation styles—from creamy versions to brothy renditions, from stovetop recipes to slow-cooked and Instant Pot adaptations. It continues to be a popular recipe in cookbooks, restaurants, and family kitchens alike.
Why You’ll Love This Soup
There are many reasons this soup has become a household favorite. First, it’s incredibly satisfying and filling without being overly heavy. It’s also highly customizable: you can use rotisserie chicken for a quick meal, swap in brown rice for wild rice, or add extra veggies depending on what you have in your fridge. It reheats beautifully, making it ideal for meal prep or leftovers. Most importantly, it delivers deep flavor and creamy texture with minimal effort.
Tips for Success
To get the best texture, it’s recommended to cook the wild rice separately or rinse it well before adding it to the soup. This ensures the rice maintains its bite and doesn’t turn mushy. Use high-quality chicken broth for a richer taste, and don’t skip the garlic or sautéing the onions—these small steps build the base of flavor that takes the soup from ordinary to exceptional. If you’re making a dairy-free version, opt for full-fat coconut milk or almond milk with a touch of cornstarch for thickening.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overcooking the wild rice can lead to a mushy texture that detracts from the soup’s overall appeal. Similarly, adding the cream too early or boiling it can cause curdling. To avoid this, stir in the cream towards the end of cooking and allow it to gently warm. Using under-seasoned broth can also result in a bland flavor, so be sure to taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Lastly, overcrowding the pot with too many ingredients at once can reduce cooking efficiency and flavor development.
Variations of the Recipe
There are numerous ways to tweak this classic soup to suit dietary needs and taste preferences. For a gluten-free version, ensure all your soup bases and thickeners are certified gluten-free. To make it vegetarian, simply omit the chicken and use vegetable broth—adding beans or tofu can help boost protein. You can also add kale or spinach for an extra nutrient punch or toss in some diced sweet potatoes for sweetness and texture. For a spicier twist, a dash of chili flakes or cayenne can be stirred in at the end.
Serving Suggestions
This soup pairs beautifully with fresh crusty bread, garlic toast, or even a simple green salad for a lighter accompaniment. If you’re serving it for a dinner party or gathering, you can offer toppings like crispy bacon bits, shredded cheddar, or fresh herbs like thyme and parsley for guests to customize their bowls. It’s also fantastic in a bread bowl for an extra-cozy meal presentation.
Storage and Meal Prep
One of the greatest perks of Chicken and Wild Rice Soup is its suitability for meal prep. It stores well in the refrigerator for up to 4–5 days and can also be frozen in airtight containers for up to 2 months. When reheating, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to prevent separation of the cream. If the soup thickens too much in the fridge, a splash of broth or milk can bring it back to the perfect consistency.
Pairing Ideas
Complement this rich and hearty soup with a refreshing side like a citrus-dressed salad or a tangy vinaigrette coleslaw to balance the creaminess. A light white wine such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc also pairs nicely with the dish, as does a sparkling water infused with lemon or herbs. For dessert, a crisp fruit tart or vanilla pudding offers a sweet, gentle finish after the savory richness of the soup.
Health Benefits
This soup can be a nourishing meal choice, especially when made with whole, fresh ingredients. Chicken is a lean source of protein and can help with muscle repair and satiety. Wild rice is low in fat and contains a good amount of fiber, which supports digestion. By using light cream or plant-based alternatives, you can further reduce the calorie content while maintaining the creamy texture. Vegetables add a range of vitamins and minerals, making this a well-rounded dish that fits into a healthy lifestyle.
Who This Recipe Is For
This dish is perfect for busy parents looking for an easy weeknight meal, college students learning to cook, or seasoned home chefs seeking a go-to comfort recipe. It’s approachable for beginners yet satisfying for foodies who appreciate layered, earthy flavors. It’s also a popular choice for potlucks, meal trains, and recovering friends or family members who need something warm, wholesome, and easy to digest.
Conclusion
Chicken and Wild Rice Soup is more than just a warm bowl of comfort—it’s a dish filled with history, flavor, and flexibility. From its Midwestern roots to its current place in modern kitchens around the world, it’s a testament to how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special. Whether you stick to the classic or make it your own, this soup is a reliable, delicious, and comforting meal that belongs in everyone’s recipe collection. It’s not just a soup—it’s a tradition, a cozy night in, and a nourishing moment all in one.
