Chicken Wild Rice Soup

This Chicken Wild Rice Soup is a hearty and flavorful dish perfect for cold weather or meal prep. Packed with nutritious vegetables, tender chicken breast, and earthy wild rice, this soup is both comforting and filling. The combination of fresh herbs like thyme, and hearty ingredients like mushrooms and white beans, creates a rich and savory flavor profile. Whether you’re looking for a cozy dinner or a healthy lunch, this soup can be made in one pot, making it easy to prepare and clean up. It’s also freezer-friendly, allowing you to enjoy it for weeks after cooking. If you’re looking for a nutritious, delicious, and easy-to-make meal, this Chicken Wild Rice Soup is an excellent option for the whole family.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery ribs, diced
• 16 ounces mushrooms, sliced
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
• 1 teaspoon salt, divided
• ½ teaspoon black pepper, divided
• 1 cup wild rice mix (uncooked)
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
• 1 can white beans, rinsed and drained

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, celery, mushrooms, and thyme. Season with ½ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally for 8-10 minutes, until the vegetables soften and the mushrooms release their moisture.
2. Add the wild rice and toast for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it releases a nutty aroma. Pour in the chicken broth and add the chicken breasts. Bring the mixture to a boil. Season with the remaining salt and pepper. Reduce the heat to a simmer, cover the pot, and cook for 30 minutes.
3. Remove the chicken from the pot and set it on a cutting board. Shred the chicken using two forks.
4. Continue cooking the soup for an additional 15 minutes until the rice is tender. Return the shredded chicken to the pot and stir to combine.
5. In a blender, combine the white beans and 1 cup of water. Process until smooth. Add the blended bean mixture to the soup, stir, and cook for another 5 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary before serving.

To Freeze: If you wish to freeze the soup for later, allow it to cool to room temperature. Then, pack the soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving about 1 inch of space at the top for expansion. Seal tightly and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to use, defrost the soup overnight in the fridge. Reheat in a pot and bring to a boil before serving.

---

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Chicken Wild Rice Soup is a comforting, hearty dish that combines tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and a mix of vegetables with the nutty flavor of wild rice. It’s a filling and healthy option, perfect for a chilly day or when you need a nourishing meal. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and can be frozen for later use, making it ideal for meal prep.

Tips

• For a creamier texture, you can blend some of the soup with an immersion blender before adding the bean mixture.
• Make sure to use boneless, skinless chicken breasts to avoid excess fat, but you can substitute chicken thighs for a richer flavor.
• Keep an eye on the rice while it cooks; if it absorbs too much liquid, add more chicken broth as needed.

Variations and Substitutions

• Vegetarian: Skip the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can add extra beans or tofu for protein.
• Dairy-Free: This soup is naturally dairy-free, but if you’d like a creamier version, consider adding coconut milk.
• Add Greens: Add spinach or kale during the last 5 minutes of cooking for extra color and nutrients.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice or a rice blend, though the cooking time may vary. Wild rice takes longer to cook, so if you choose another type of rice, be sure to adjust the cooking time.

Can I use cooked chicken instead of raw?
Yes, you can use shredded rotisserie chicken or any leftover cooked chicken. Add it in after the rice is fully cooked and skip the step where you cook the chicken in the broth.

How long will this soup last in the fridge?
The soup will last in the fridge for up to 4 days. Store it in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Serving

Serve this soup with a warm slice of crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner or as a hearty lunch. You can also top it with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a dollop of sour cream for extra flavor.

Suggestions

• For extra flavor: Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme just before serving.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce if you like a bit of heat in your soup.
• Meal prep: Make a big batch and store it in individual portions for easy lunches throughout the week.