HomeDinnerCrockpot Chicken Wild Rice Soup Recipe

Crockpot Chicken Wild Rice Soup Recipe

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Crockpot Chicken Wild Rice Soup Recipe

Soup is the epitome of comfort food, and Chicken Wild Rice Soup takes it to a whole new level. This recipe is loaded with tender chicken, earthy wild rice, carrots, celery, and a creamy broth. The slow cooker makes it incredibly easy to prepare, letting you set it and forget it, while the ingredients simmer together into a rich, flavorful soup. Whether you’re looking for a cozy dinner, a meal to serve a crowd, or something hearty to bring to a gathering, this Crockpot Chicken Wild Rice Soup fits the bill. It’s satisfying, comforting, and the perfect bowl of warmth on a cold day.

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Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables and Chicken

To start, you’ll need to prepare the vegetables and chicken. If you want a little more depth of flavor, you can sauté the vegetables first, but if you’re short on time, you can skip this step and add them straight to the crockpot.

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  1. Dice the Vegetables:
    Peel and dice the carrots, chop the celery, and dice the onion into small, uniform pieces. Mince the garlic. These vegetables will provide a base for the soup and add texture to the finished dish.
  2. Prepare the Chicken:
    If you’re using boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, you can leave them whole or cut them into larger chunks. The beauty of the slow cooker is that the chicken will cook through and become easily shred-able by the time the soup is done. The chicken will break apart in the soup, giving it that delicious, tender texture.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables (Optional)

While this step is optional, sautéing the vegetables will help to bring out their natural sweetness and add more complexity to the soup. Here’s how to do it:

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  1. Heat a large pan over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil (or butter if preferred). Once the oil is hot, add the diced onions, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are translucent and the vegetables have softened slightly.
  2. Add the garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds, until fragrant. This step will really enhance the flavors.
  3. Once the vegetables are sautéed, transfer them to the slow cooker.

Step 3: Add the Remaining Ingredients to the Crockpot

After preparing the vegetables, it’s time to add everything else to the slow cooker. Here’s what you need to do:

  1. Place the Chicken in the bottom of the slow cooker, followed by the rinsed wild rice.
  2. Add the Vegetables that you sautéed (or added raw if you skipped the sauté step), along with any remaining ingredients such as garlic, bay leaf, thyme, and rosemary.
  3. Pour in the Broth: Add the 6 cups of chicken broth. If you like a more intense flavor, you can use bone broth for added richness. Season with salt and pepper to taste (you can always adjust the seasoning later, so start with a pinch of salt and a few cracks of pepper).
  4. Stir the mixture to combine everything.

Step 4: Slow Cook the Soup

Now that everything is in the slow cooker, it’s time to let the crockpot do its magic!

  1. Cover the Crockpot and set it to low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The wild rice should be fully cooked and tender by the time the soup is ready. The chicken will cook through and become tender, making it easy to shred.

Step 5: Shred the Chicken

Once the soup is done cooking, you’ll need to shred the chicken. It will be so tender that it will practically fall apart on its own. Here’s how to do it:

  1. Remove the Chicken: Use tongs or a slotted spoon to remove the chicken breasts or thighs from the crockpot. Place them on a cutting board.
  2. Shred the Chicken: Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Alternatively, you can chop it with a sharp knife if you prefer larger pieces of chicken.
  3. Return the Chicken to the Soup: Once the chicken is shredded, add it back to the slow cooker.

Step 6: Add the Cream

To give the soup its signature creamy texture, you’ll want to add the heavy cream (or half-and-half if you want a lighter version). You can also adjust the amount of cream based on how rich and creamy you want the soup to be. Stir the cream into the soup and allow it to heat through for a few minutes.

Step 7: Final Seasoning Adjustments

Once the cream is mixed in, give the soup a final taste to see if it needs any additional seasoning. Add more salt, pepper, or a splash of lemon juice to brighten up the flavor. The lemon juice is optional, but it helps to cut through the richness of the creamy broth and balance the flavors.

Step 8: Serve and Garnish

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with some fresh parsley or thyme for color and an extra pop of flavor. You can also top the soup with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese or a few cranks of black pepper for added richness.

Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Chicken Wild Rice Soup

1. Chicken Choices:

  • You can use chicken breasts or chicken thighs in this recipe. Thighs are more flavorful and tend to stay more tender in the slow cooker, while chicken breasts can be leaner. Both work beautifully, so use whichever you prefer.
  • If you prefer a shortcut, rotisserie chicken can be added at the end after the soup has finished cooking. Simply shred it and stir it in with the cream.

2. Wild Rice:

  • Wild rice can take longer to cook than white rice, which is why it works so well in the slow cooker. If you prefer a softer, more broken-down rice, you can cook it separately and add it to the soup after the slow cooking time.
  • You can also try a wild rice blend with other types of rice for different textures and flavors.

3. Make it Lighter:

  • If you’re looking to make a lighter version of this soup, use low-fat milk or half-and-half instead of heavy cream. You can also use low-sodium chicken broth to keep the sodium levels in check.

4. Add More Veggies:

  • Feel free to sneak in other veggies for added nutrition, such as spinach, kale, or peas. Add them during the last 30 minutes of cooking so they don’t become too soft.

5. Freezing Leftovers:

  • This soup freezes wonderfully! Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and then warm it in a pot on the stove. You might want to add a bit of broth or water to loosen the soup after freezing.

Possible Variations

  1. Vegan or Vegetarian Version:
    • To make this soup vegetarian or vegan, simply omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add tofu, tempeh, or beans (like chickpeas or white beans) for protein. Use coconut milk or cashew cream in place of the heavy cream.
  2. Spicy Chicken Wild Rice Soup:
    • If you like heat, add some diced green chilies, jalapeños, or a dash of hot sauce to the soup. You could also sprinkle some red pepper flakes for a kick of spice.
  3. Smoky Flavor:
    • Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a few drops of liquid smoke for a smoky depth of flavor that pairs well with the wild rice.
  4. Lemon Chicken Wild Rice Soup:
    • Add a squeeze of lemon juice and a bit of lemon zest at the end to give the soup a fresh, zesty finish that brightens up the creamy base.

Serving Suggestions:

While the Crockpot Chicken Wild Rice Soup is hearty and filling on its own, pairing it with a few side dishes can elevate the meal. Here are some great options:

1. Fresh Breads:

  • Crusty French Bread or Sourdough: Perfect for dipping into the creamy soup. You can also toast slices and serve them with a little garlic butter for added flavor.
  • Garlic Bread: A classic pairing with any creamy soup. The crunchy, garlicky bread complements the rich, creamy soup perfectly.

2. Salad Options:

  • Simple Side Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette helps balance the richness of the soup. Consider adding a few slices of avocado or roasted nuts for extra texture.
  • Caesar Salad: For a more indulgent side, a crisp Caesar salad with parmesan and croutons adds some crunch and a nice contrast to the soup’s smooth texture.
  • Coleslaw: A tangy, crunchy coleslaw can be a great addition, especially if you like a bit of brightness to balance the creaminess of the soup.

3. Fruit Side Dishes:

  • A light, refreshing fruit salad with a mix of seasonal fruits such as apples, grapes, pears, and citrus adds a burst of sweetness that complements the savory soup.

Make It a Meal:

You can easily turn this soup into a full, comforting meal by adding some extra protein or sides:

  • Chicken Wild Rice Soup and Grilled Cheese: A classic combo! Pair the soup with a gooey grilled cheese sandwich for a nostalgic, comforting meal.
  • Baked Potatoes: A baked potato served on the side, topped with butter, sour cream, chives, or even bacon bits, is a great option to make the meal even heartier.

Troubleshooting:

1. Wild Rice Not Cooking Fully:

Wild rice can sometimes take longer than expected to cook in a slow cooker, especially depending on the type or brand you use. Here’s what you can do:

  • Check the rice: If the rice isn’t fully cooked at the end of the cooking time, just give it a little more time. Leave the soup on low for another 30 minutes to 1 hour and check again.
  • Alternative method: If you’re in a hurry and find that the rice needs more time than the slow cooker can provide, you can pre-cook the rice separately before adding it to the soup.

2. Soup Too Thick:

If the soup becomes too thick after cooking or sitting for a while, just add more chicken broth or water to thin it out to your desired consistency. Stir well and let it heat through.

3. Soup Too Thin:

If your soup is too thin or watery, you can thicken it by making a slurry (a mixture of flour and water). In a small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of flour with 2 tablespoons of water, then add it to the soup and stir well. Let the soup cook for another 20-30 minutes to thicken. Alternatively, you can use cornstarch instead of flour for a gluten-free option.

Additional Variations and Customizations:

While this recipe is fantastic as written, you can easily customize it to suit your tastes or dietary preferences. Here are a few ideas for variations:

1. Add More Vegetables:

You can sneak in more veggies for added nutrients and flavor. Consider adding:

  • Spinach or Kale: Stir in some fresh spinach or kale during the last 30 minutes of cooking. They’ll wilt down nicely and add a boost of vitamins.
  • Parsnips or Sweet Potatoes: Both of these root vegetables would add a touch of sweetness and more texture to the soup. Add them at the same time as the carrots and celery for optimal cooking.
  • Mushrooms: Sauté some sliced mushrooms in olive oil before adding them to the soup for a deeper, earthy flavor.

2. Switch up the Protein:

If you prefer not to use chicken or want to make a different version, try:

  • Turkey: Use ground or shredded turkey as a lean alternative to chicken. This can work particularly well around the holidays or for leftover turkey.
  • Sausage: Adding a bit of Italian sausage or chicken sausage (either spicy or mild) can add some zest to the soup.
  • Tofu or Tempeh: For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with cubed tofu or tempeh. Tofu will absorb the flavors of the broth while maintaining its firm texture.

3. Make It Spicy:

For those who love a bit of heat, add:

  • Jalapeños: Slice and add fresh or pickled jalapeños during cooking for extra spice.
  • Cayenne Pepper: Stir in a pinch or more of cayenne pepper to the soup for an added kick.
  • Hot Sauce: Drizzle your favorite hot sauce, such as sriracha or Frank’s RedHot, into the soup before serving to adjust the heat level.

4. Change the Creaminess:

  • Coconut Milk: For a dairy-free version, swap out the heavy cream for coconut milk. It will give the soup a slightly different flavor but still keep it creamy and rich.
  • Cream Cheese: For an ultra-creamy version, add a few tablespoons of cream cheese in place of or in addition to the heavy cream.

Healthier Substitutions:

If you’re looking to lighten up the recipe without sacrificing flavor, here are a few healthier swaps:

  • Low-fat milk or half-and-half: Swap the heavy cream with low-fat milk or half-and-half for a lighter version of the soup. You can still achieve a creamy texture, but with fewer calories.
  • Greek Yogurt: For a healthier creamy texture, stir in a dollop of Greek yogurt after cooking. It adds creaminess and a tangy flavor while also boosting the protein content.
  • Cauliflower Rice: For a lower-carb alternative to wild rice, try using cauliflower rice. You can add it during the last 30 minutes of cooking or stir it in when the soup is done.

Conclusion

This Crockpot Chicken Wild Rice Soup is a perfect comfort food that’s both filling and nourishing. With its creamy, hearty base and tender chicken, it’s sure to warm you up on even the coldest days. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, and the slow cooking process allows the flavors to develop beautifully over time.

Feel free to customize the soup to suit your preferences and dietary needs, whether you want to make it lighter, add more vegetables, or experiment with different proteins. Plus, this soup is incredibly easy to make, and it makes wonderful leftovers or can be frozen for future meals.

Make this soup for dinner tonight and enjoy a warm bowl of comfort, all with minimal effort. It’s the perfect way to feed your family or impress guests with a delicious, homemade dish that’s both hearty and healthy.

The Crockpot Chicken Wild Rice Soup is a versatile and comforting dish that can be customized to suit various tastes and dietary preferences. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a cozy weekend meal, or as a meal prep option for the week ahead, this soup is sure to please. The slow-cooking method allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a rich, creamy soup that’s hearty enough to stand on its own.

With plenty of room for modifications—whether you want to add more vegetables, make it spicier, or switch up the protein—this recipe is truly adaptable. Plus, it’s easy to store and freeze, so you can enjoy it for several days or even longer. Whether you’re serving it with a side of crusty bread, a light salad, or even on its own, this Chicken Wild Rice Soup is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.

Yield: 6

Crockpot Chicken Wild Rice Soup Recipe

Crockpot Chicken Wild Rice Soup Recipe

Soup is the epitome of comfort food, and Chicken Wild Rice Soup takes it to a whole new level. This recipe is loaded with tender chicken, earthy wild rice, carrots, celery, and a creamy broth. The slow cooker makes it incredibly easy to prepare, letting you set it and forget it, while the ingredients simmer together into a rich, flavorful soup. Whether you're looking for a cozy dinner, a meal to serve a crowd, or something hearty to bring to a gathering, this Crockpot Chicken Wild Rice Soup fits the bill. It’s satisfying, comforting, and the perfect bowl of warmth on a cold day.

Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 6 hours

Ingredients

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (cut into chunks)
  • 1 cup wild rice (rinsed)
  • 4 cups chicken broth (low-sodium preferred)
  • 1 cup carrots (diced)
  • 1 cup celery (diced)
  • 1 medium onion (diced)
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1/2 tsp dried rosemary
  • 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper (adjust to taste)
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Add ingredients to the crockpot: Place the chicken, wild rice, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, pepper, and bay leaf into the crockpot. Pour in the chicken broth.
  2. Cook on low: Cover and cook on low for 6 hours, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked. Once done, remove the chicken and shred it using two forks.
  3. Make the creamy soup base: After shredding the chicken, return it to the crockpot. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the heavy cream and cornstarch (if using) to create a smooth mixture. Stir this into the crockpot and cook for an additional 30 minutes to thicken the soup.
  4. Taste and adjust: Taste the soup and adjust seasoning if needed, adding more salt, pepper, or herbs to your liking.
  5. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.

Notes

  • Wild Rice Cooking Time:
    Wild rice typically takes longer to cook than other types of rice. This recipe’s slow cooker method ensures that it cooks perfectly over several hours. If using other types of rice, adjust the cooking time accordingly.
  • Chicken Options:
    You can use either boneless, skinless chicken breasts or chicken thighs. Chicken thighs are more flavorful and will stay more tender in the slow cooker, while chicken breasts are leaner.
    If you prefer shredded rotisserie chicken, you can add it after cooking. Just stir it in along with the cream for a quicker prep option.
  • Sautéing Vegetables:
    Sautéing the vegetables before adding them to the slow cooker adds depth to the flavor, but it’s completely optional. You can skip this step and add the vegetables directly to the slow cooker if you're short on time.
  • Cream Alternatives:
    You can use half-and-half, low-fat milk, or coconut milk in place of the heavy cream for a lighter version. For a dairy-free option, use coconut milk and vegetable broth.
    Greek yogurt can also be used at the end of cooking for creaminess while adding some tang and protein.
  • Add-ins and Variations:

    Feel free to add more vegetables like spinach, kale, or peas during the last 30 minutes of cooking for extra nutrients.
    For a spicy kick, add jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or your favorite hot sauce.
  • Adjusting Consistency:
    If the soup is too thick, you can add extra chicken broth or water to thin it out to your preferred consistency. If it's too thin, you can thicken it with a cornstarch slurry (mix 1-2 tbsp cornstarch with a little cold water and stir it into the soup).
  • Serving Suggestions:
    Pair this soup with a side of crusty bread, garlic bread, or a simple side salad for a well-rounded meal.
    Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme, and top with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for added flavor.

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