If you are on the hunt for a comforting, nourishing bowl that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, let me introduce you to my absolute favorite: this Healthy Chicken Wild Rice Soup Recipe. It’s a delightful combination of tender chicken, hearty wild rice, and a colorful medley of fresh vegetables, all simmered together in a fragrant broth that’s rich without being heavy. Trust me, this soup is not only deeply satisfying but also packed with wholesome ingredients that make every spoonful a celebration of balance and flavor. Whether you’re looking to cozy up after a long day or want a meal that feels both hearty and healthy, this recipe brings it all to the table with a loving touch.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is the secret to making this soup shine. Each element here plays an essential role, from adding texture and earthiness to building layers of flavor and visual appeal. Plus, they’re all simple, accessible, and wholesome, which makes gathering them a breeze before you get cooking.
- 1.5 pounds raw chicken pieces: Using breasts, drumsticks, or cut-up whole chicken adds versatile protein and depth of taste.
- 1 large onion, finely chopped: Brings natural sweetness and a savory base to the broth.
- 2 large garlic cloves, minced: Infuses the soup with aromatic warmth and a subtle spicy kick.
- 2 large carrots, coarsely chopped: Adds a gentle sweetness and bright color to the mix.
- 3 large celery stalks, diced: Contributes a fresh, crisp texture and classic soup flavor.
- 2 large potatoes, diced: Provides comforting starchiness and helps thicken the broth slightly.
- ½ cup dried or 2 cups fresh brown mushrooms, sliced: Brings umami richness and a meaty texture that complements the chicken beautifully.
- 1 ½ cups wild rice: Offers nutty flavor and chewy bite that makes the soup hearty and satisfying.
- 7 cups water or low sodium chicken broth: Forms the nourishing broth base while controlling saltiness.
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme: Adds an herbal note that lifts the entire soup.
- 1 tablespoon prepared mustard: Introduces a subtle tang that balances the flavors.
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder: Enhances the garlic flavor with extra depth.
- 1 ¾ teaspoons salt: Seasons the soup perfectly to enhance all ingredients.
- Ground black pepper, to taste: For a slight heat and complexity.
- 2 cups whole milk: Creates a creamy texture without overpowering the broth.
- Small bunch parsley, finely chopped: Adds fresh brightness right before serving.
- 1 tablespoon butter (for stovetop only): Rounds out the flavor and enriches the mouthfeel.
How to Make Healthy Chicken Wild Rice Soup Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Vegetables
Start by rinsing the chicken pieces and patting them dry. In a large pot, place the chicken along with the chopped onion, minced garlic, carrots, celery, and potatoes. Add the mushrooms now if you’re using dried, as they need time to rehydrate and soften. Pour in your water or chicken broth to cover everything completely. This fresh start allows the flavors to meld together beautifully from the beginning.
Step 2: Simmer with Wild Rice and Seasonings
Bring the pot to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer. Add the wild rice along with dried thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This is where the magic happens—slow cooking lets the rice absorb the broth’s aroma and releases its nutty flavor, while the seasonings enhance the natural savoriness of the chicken and vegetables. Simmer uncovered for about an hour, stirring occasionally.
Step 3: Remove Chicken, Shred, and Return
Once the chicken is tender and cooked through, carefully remove the pieces from the broth. Let them cool enough to handle, then shred the meat, discarding bones and skin if used. Return the shredded chicken back to the pot, stirring gently to distribute it evenly. This step gives the soup that hearty, satisfying quality that feels like a true homemade meal.
Step 4: Finish with Milk, Mustard, and Parsley
Lower the heat and stir in the whole milk and prepared mustard. If cooking on the stovetop, add butter now for extra richness. Allow the soup to warm without boiling to avoid curdling the milk. Finish by folding in the finely chopped parsley—it brings a fresh, vibrant lift that balances the creamy texture perfectly. Now your Healthy Chicken Wild Rice Soup Recipe is ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Healthy Chicken Wild Rice Soup Recipe
Garnishes
To take this soup to the next level, consider garnishing with a sprinkle of extra fresh parsley or a few cracked black peppercorns. A small drizzle of good-quality olive oil or a dollop of Greek yogurt can also add a lovely creaminess and visual appeal, making each bowl not just delicious but inviting to the eye.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty whole-grain bread or a simple mixed green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette. The bread lets you soak up every bit of the flavorful broth, while the salad adds a refreshing crispness that complements the heartiness of the soup perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a cozy dinner party, serve the soup in rustic stoneware bowls and place a small side of herb-infused olive oil for dipping. You can also ladle the soup into hollowed-out bread bowls for an irresistible, rustic presentation that’s both practical and charming. Adding a sprinkle of toasted nuts or seeds on top gives a wonderful crunch and subtle earthiness.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your Healthy Chicken Wild Rice Soup Recipe, store any leftovers in airtight containers and refrigerate promptly. The flavors tend to deepen overnight, making the next-day meal even tastier. It’s best consumed within 3 to 4 days to keep the vegetables fresh and the milk rich.
Freezing
You can absolutely freeze this soup for longer storage. For best results, freeze it before adding the milk and parsley, as dairy can sometimes separate when frozen. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then stir in fresh milk and parsley upon reheating.
Reheating
Reheat the soup gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to avoid scorching and to keep the milk creamy. Avoid boiling once milk is added to maintain the perfect texture. If the soup thickens too much upon standing, simply add a splash of water or broth to loosen it back up.
FAQs
Can I use white rice instead of wild rice?
Absolutely! White rice will cook faster and soften more, giving you a different texture. Wild rice adds a nuttier taste and chewier bite, but white rice is a fine substitute if needed. Just reduce cooking time slightly to avoid mushiness.
Is this soup suitable for freezing with the milk included?
It’s better to freeze the soup before adding milk. Dairy can separate or change texture after freezing. Add fresh milk when reheating for the creamiest final result.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes! Combine all ingredients except milk and butter, then cook on low for 6-8 hours. Add milk and butter at the end and warm through gently before serving.
What type of chicken pieces work best?
Using a mix of breast and drumsticks or a whole cut-up chicken gives you the best flavor and texture. Dark meat provides richness, while breasts keep it lean. Feel free to use boneless or bone-in, depending on your preference.
How can I make this soup vegan or vegetarian?
Replace chicken with tofu or additional mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Swap milk for a plant-based alternative like oat or cashew milk and skip the butter or use vegan butter.
Final Thoughts
I truly believe this Healthy Chicken Wild Rice Soup Recipe is one of those rare gems that feels like both comfort food and a nourishing meal. It’s the kind of dish you’ll want to make again and again, whether to feed family or impress friends with your cooking. Give it a go—you might just discover your new go-to soup that warms your heart and satisfies your soul all at once.
Print
Healthy Chicken Wild Rice Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 7 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Healthy Chicken Wild Rice Soup is a comforting and nutritious meal featuring tender chicken, wholesome wild rice, and a medley of fresh vegetables simmered to perfection in a flavorful broth. Ideal for a cozy dinner, this soup balances heartiness with health-conscious ingredients, making it a perfect choice for a nourishing and satisfying dish.
Ingredients
Chicken and Broth
- 1.5 pounds any raw chicken pieces (breasts, drumsticks, or cut-up whole chicken)
- 7 cups water or low sodium chicken broth
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 large garlic cloves, minced
- 2 large carrots, coarsely chopped
- 3 large celery stalks, diced
- 2 large potatoes, diced
- ½ cup dried mushrooms or 2 cups fresh brown mushrooms, sliced
- Small bunch parsley, finely chopped
Rice and Seasonings
- 1 ½ cups wild rice
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 tablespoon prepared mustard
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 ¾ teaspoons salt
- Ground black pepper, to taste
Dairy and Fats
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 tablespoon butter (for stovetop only)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken and Vegetables: Begin by placing the raw chicken pieces into a large pot. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, carrots, celery, potatoes, and mushrooms into the pot with the chicken, setting a flavorful base for your soup.
- Add Rice, Broth, and Seasonings: Pour in the wild rice and the 7 cups of water or low sodium chicken broth. Stir in dried thyme, prepared mustard, garlic powder, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Mix gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Cook the Soup: Bring the soup mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook gently for about 1 hour and 5 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice and vegetables are tender.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the cooked chicken pieces, shred or cut them into bite-sized pieces, then return them to the pot. Stir in the whole milk and butter (if cooking stovetop), and sprinkle finely chopped parsley for freshness. Adjust seasoning to taste and heat through before serving.
Notes
- You can use any cut of raw chicken; bone-in pieces add more flavor.
- Dried mushrooms provide deeper flavor, but fresh mushrooms are a great alternative.
- Low sodium broth helps control salt content; adjust salt to your preference.
- For a creamier soup, use whole milk and butter as indicated.
- Wild rice can be substituted with brown rice if preferred, though cooking times may vary.
- Stir occasionally during cooking to prevent rice from sticking to the pot.
