Chicken Wild Rice Soup is the kind of meal that feels like a warm blanket on a cold day. While traditional versions are often laden with heavy cream and minimal vegetables, our “Veggie Heavy” version flips the ratio. We pack the pot with carrots, celery, kale, and mushrooms, making the nutrient-dense wild rice and lean chicken the stars of a balanced, hearty bowl.
Wild rice is actually a semi-aquatic grass, not a grain, and it has a wonderful nutty flavor and chewy texture that holds up beautifully in soup. It doesn’t get mushy like white rice, meaning this soup reheats perfectly for lunch all week long.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Nutrient Density
By using wild rice, you are getting a complete protein (unusual for grains!) and high fiber. Combined with the medley of vegetables, this soup is a powerhouse of vitamins A, C, and K. It’s immune-boosting comfort food at its finest.
Creamy but Light
We use a “slurry” of milk and cornstarch or a splash of half-and-half rather than heavy whipping cream. This gives you the creamy, opaque broth you crave without the high saturated fat content of a chowder.
Ingredients
- 1 cup wild rice blend, uncooked
- 1 lb chicken breast, cooked and shredded
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 whole onion, diced
- 2 cups kale, chopped
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk (or half-and-half)
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
Instructions
- Sauté onion, carrots, celery, and mushrooms in a pot.
- Add broth, thyme, and rinsed rice. Simmer covered 45-50 mins.
- Whisk cornstarch into milk. Stir into soup to thicken.
- Add chicken and kale. Simmer 5-10 mins uncovered.
- Season with salt and pepper. Serve.
Ingredient Highlights & Substitutions
Essential Ingredients
Wild Rice Blend: A pure wild rice takes longer to cook, so a blend (wild rice + brown rice) is often more convenient and textural.
Mirepoix: Onion, carrots, and celery are the flavor foundation.
Mushrooms: Essential for that earthy, savory depth that pairs so well with wild rice.
Kale: A hearty green that adds texture and nutrition.
Chicken: Cooked shredded breast or rotisserie chicken.
Smart Substitutions
For a dairy-free version, use a can of coconut milk or cashew cream—the nutty flavor complements the rice perfectly. You can swap kale for spinach, but add it at the very end. Turkey is a great substitute for chicken, especially after Thanksgiving!
If you are a fan of hearty soups, you might also like this Sausage & Tortellini Soup for another veggie-loaded option.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prep Phase
Rinse your rice thoroughly. Chop onions, carrots, celery, and mushrooms. Shred your chicken.
Cooking Phase
In a large soup pot, sauté the onion, carrots, and celery in butter or oil until soft (about 5-7 minutes). Add the mushrooms and garlic, cooking for another 3 minutes.
Add the chicken broth, dried thyme, and the rinsed wild rice. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 40-50 minutes. (Wild rice takes time!). Check that the rice is tender and has “burst” open.
To Thicken: Whisk the cornstarch into the milk until smooth. Stir this into the simmering soup.
Add the cooked chicken and chopped kale. Simmer uncovered for 5-10 minutes until the soup thickens slightly and kale is tender. Season with salt and plenty of black pepper.
Pro Tips for Perfect Results
Technique Secrets
Rinse the Rice: Wild rice can be dusty. Rinsing it ensures a clean broth.
Don’t Rush the Rice: Undercooked wild rice is hard and gets stuck in your teeth. Let it cook until the grains split open to reveal the white interior.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Adding the milk too early. Dairy can curdle if boiled for 45 minutes. Always add the creamy element after the rice is fully cooked, just to heat it through.
| Ingredient | Nutritional Role | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|
| Wild Rice | Fiber & Antioxidants | Nutty/Earthy |
| Mushrooms | Vitamin D & Umami | Savory |
| Carrots/Kale | Vitamins A & K | Sweet/Fresh |
| Chicken | Lean Protein | savory |
Serving Ideas & Pairings
Presentation & Plating
Serve with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or thyme.
Pairing Suggestions
A slice of whole-grain bread or a crusty roll is perfect for dipping.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use instant rice?
Yes, but add it at the end. The texture won’t be as chewy or satisfying.
Can I freeze it?
Yes, this soup freezes very well. You may need to add a splash of water when reheating as the rice will absorb liquid.
Conclusion
Chicken Wild Rice Soup (Veggie Heavy) is a wholesome, filling meal that proves comfort food can be good for you. It’s perfect for meal prep, keeping you warm and nourished throughout the week.
