Chicken and Wild Rice Soup is one of those comforting recipes that instantly warms your kitchen and your heart.
The moment I start preparing Chicken and Wild Rice Soup, the savory aroma of sautéed vegetables combined with tender chicken and fragrant wild rice fills the air, making the whole house feel cozy.
As I spoon the creamy soup into a bowl, I love how each bite blends the subtle sweetness of carrots, the mild onion flavor, and the earthy notes of wild rice.
Chicken and Wild Rice Soup is a dish that’s not just about taste—it’s about comfort, nostalgia, and the joy of sharing a hearty meal with family and friends.
Making this Chicken and Wild Rice Soup from scratch is incredibly satisfying, and once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s a classic favorite that keeps everyone coming back for more.
Why Chicken and Wild Rice Soup is the Ideal Recipe
I’ve made chicken and wild rice soup countless times, and each batch reminds me why it’s the ultimate comfort meal. First, it’s versatile—you can enjoy it as a light lunch or a hearty dinner.
The combination of protein from the chicken and fiber from the rice makes it filling without feeling heavy. I also appreciate how it’s forgiving; even if I tweak the vegetables or adjust the seasoning, it still comes out delicious.
Key Ingredients in Chicken and Wild Rice Soup Recipe
When I gather the ingredients for this soup, I like to have everything prepped and measured to make the cooking process smooth and stress-free. Here’s what you’ll need:
-2 cups cooked chicken, shredded: I usually use leftover rotisserie chicken for maximum flavor.
-1 box long grain and wild rice mix, including the seasoning packet: The wild rice gives the soup its signature texture.
-½ packet of rice seasoning mix: I use this to control the flavor intensity without overpowering the soup.
-1 12 oz can evaporated milk: Adds a creamy richness while keeping it lighter than heavy cream.
-4-5 cups chicken broth: Adjust depending on your preferred soup thickness.
-½ cup carrots, chopped: Provides sweetness and color.
-½ cup celery, chopped: Adds a mild earthy flavor.
-½ cup onions, diced: The base flavor for our soup.
-1 tsp salt, divided: For seasoning at different stages of cooking.
-½ tsp pepper: To taste.
-½ tsp marjoram: Adds a subtle herbaceous note.
-2 tbsp canola oil: For sautéing the vegetables.
Print
Chicken and Wild Rice Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 45 min
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
Chicken and Wild Rice Soup Recipe is a hearty, creamy soup made with tender shredded chicken, wild rice, carrots, celery, onions, and aromatic herbs, perfect for a comforting and flavorful meal any day of the week.
Ingredients
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 box long grain and wild rice mix-with seasoning packet
½ packet of rice seasoning mix
1 12 oz can evaporated milk
4–5 cups chicken broth
½ cup carrots, chopped
½ cup celery, chopped
½ cup onions, diced
1 tsp salt divided
½ tsp pepper
½ tsp marjoram
2 tbsp canola oil
Instructions
- In a large pot, add the two tbsp. of canola oil and turn heat to medium high. Add carrots, onions, and celery. Season with 1/2 tsp salt. Stir and cook over medium heat for 5-6 minutes, or until veggies are tender.
- Add rice to pot and half the seasoning packet. Add 1/2 the pepper and the marjoram. Stir well. Add evaporated milk and 4 cups of the chicken broth. Turn heat to high and bring to a boil. Once boiling, cover the pot and reduce to medium heat. Let simmer, covered, for 15-20 minutes, or until rice is tender. Stir well to prevent rice sticking to the bottom of the pan.
- Once rice is tender, add the cup of milk and the cooked chicken. Stir well. Add additional chicken broth if too thick and add additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve or continue to let simmer over low until ready to serve. Soup will thicken the longer you let simmer.
- Prep Time: 10 min
- Cook Time: 35 min
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Homamade
For a fun twist during the holiday season or cozy fall evenings, you could pair it with a dessert like my Pumpkin Poke Cake Recipe in 15 Min or a simple meal alongside Chili Dogs Recipe in 30 Min. On busy nights, it complements quick dishes like Easy Chicken Shawarma Sheet Pan Recipe in 30 Min beautifully.
How to Make Chicken and Wild Rice Soup Step-by-Step
Cooking this soup is straightforward, and I always encourage taking your time to let the flavors develop naturally. Here’s how I prepare it:
-In a large pot, add 2 tablespoons of canola oil and heat over medium-high. Toss in the carrots, onions, and celery, and season with ½ teaspoon salt. Stir and cook for 5-6 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and fragrant.
-Add the rice mix to the pot along with half of the seasoning packet. Stir in ½ teaspoon pepper and the marjoram. Mix well to combine everything.
-Pour in the evaporated milk and 4 cups of chicken broth. Increase heat to high and bring to a boil. Once boiling, cover the pot and reduce heat to medium. Let simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the rice is tender.
-After the rice is cooked, stir in the shredded chicken and an additional cup of milk. If the soup is too thick, add extra chicken broth until it reaches your preferred consistency. Adjust salt and pepper as needed.
-Continue to simmer on low if you like a thicker texture. Serve warm and enjoy the comforting, rich flavors of this classic soup.
Chicken and Wild Rice Soup Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 220-250 kcal |
| Protein | 18 g |
| Carbohydrates | 22 g |
| Fat | 9 g |
| Saturated Fat | 2 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sodium | 680 mg |
| Cholesterol | 40 mg |
| Sugars | 3 g |
| Vitamins & Minerals | High in Vitamin A (from carrots) and iron (from chicken) |
Conclusion
Making Chicken and Wild Rice Soup has always been a personal favorite for me. The process, from chopping fresh vegetables to simmering the rice until it’s tender, feels therapeutic. Every time I serve it, the rich aroma and creamy texture never fail to impress family and friends.
It’s a recipe that’s simple to make, deeply satisfying, and perfect for any occasion—whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight dinner or a meal to share during colder months. Once you try it, I’m confident it will become a staple in your kitchen, just as it has in mine.
Looking for inspiration? Visit Elise Chef on Pinterest to explore beautifully curated high-fiber recipes and discover your next healthy habit.