Name: Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: PT-489125H8M56S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3/4 cup uncooked wild rice blend; 1 cup chopped yellow onion; 1 cup diced carrots; 1 cup diced celery; 7 Tbsp butter, divided; 1 large garlic clove, minced; 4 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 1/4 tsp each dried thyme, marjoram, sage, and rosemary; Salt and ground black pepper to taste; 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1 1/2 cups milk; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1 tsp lemon zest

Warm up with a comforting bowl of creamy chicken and wild rice soup! This hearty dish is not only delicious but also easy to make, making it perfect for cozy nights in or even meal prep for the week ahead.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

Great flavors that blend perfectly together
Quick and easy prep time for a satisfying meal
Perfect for meal prep, making it a convenient option for busy days

Ingredient Notes:

Uncooked wild rice blend adds a nutty flavor and chewy texture to the soup.
Yellow onion, carrots, and celery provide a delicious base for the soup.
Butter adds richness, while garlic and a blend of herbs add depth of flavor.
Chicken broth, boneless chicken breasts, flour, milk, and heavy cream create a creamy and satisfying soup.
Lemon zest adds a refreshing citrus note.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

In a large pot, melt butter and sauté onion, carrots, and celery until softened.
Add garlic, herbs, salt, and pepper, stirring for a minute.
Stir in chicken broth and wild rice blend, bringing to a boil.
Reduce heat, cover, and simmer until rice is tender.
In a separate skillet, cook chicken until no longer pink, then shred and set aside.
In the pot, whisk together flour and milk until smooth, then stir in heavy cream.
Add chicken back to the pot, simmer until heated through, and finish with lemon zest.
Serve hot and enjoy the creamy goodness!

Helpful Tips:

For a thicker soup, blend a portion of the soup before adding the chicken.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Swap chicken for turkey or add in extra veggies for a twist on the classic recipe.

Expert Tips for the Best Results:

Use a mix of fresh and dried herbs for a more robust flavor profile.
Allow the soup to cool slightly before serving to let the flavors meld.
Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for an extra touch of flavor.

Serving Suggestions:

Pair this soup with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal. A glass of white wine or a hot cup of tea complements the creamy richness of the soup.

Storage and Reheating Tips:

To store leftovers, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use cooked chicken instead of raw? Yes, simply shred cooked chicken and add it in during the final steps of the recipe.
Can I use a different type of rice? While we recommend wild rice for its unique flavor, you can use any type of rice you prefer.
Can I make this soup ahead of time? Absolutely! This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.

Conclusion:

Creamy chicken and wild rice soup is a comforting and satisfying meal that is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Give it a try and let us know what you think! Enjoy!