When You Want Something Creamy, Cozy, and Deeply Satisfying
There’s something magical about a pot of creamy chicken and wild rice soup simmering on the stove. It’s the kind of dinner that feels like a warm blanket—perfect for chilly evenings, slow weekends, or whenever you’re craving a restaurant-style comfort meal at home. Inspired by cream of chicken and wild rice soup and that famous copycat Panera chicken wild rice soup, this version is rich, hearty, and surprisingly simple.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Chicken & Wild Rice Soup
- Ultra-creamy without being heavy
- Hearty and filling thanks to wild rice
- Perfect for crockpot or Instant Pot adaptations
- Cozy, comforting, and family-approved
- Tastes like a copycat restaurant favorite
Ingredients Overview (What Makes It So Good)
- Chicken: Boneless chicken breast or thighs for tender bites
- Wild rice: Nutty, chewy, and perfect for hearty soup nights
- Vegetables: Onion, carrot, celery, and mushrooms for depth
- Garlic & herbs: Thyme and bay leaf add warmth
- Chicken broth: The savory base
- Cream & milk: Creates that signature creamy texture
- Butter & flour: For a simple roux that thickens beautifully
- Salt & pepper: Adjust to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions (Easy & Foolproof)
- Cook the aromatics
In a large pot, sauté onion, carrot, celery, and mushrooms in butter until soft. Add garlic and herbs. - Add chicken & broth
Stir in chicken and chicken broth. Bring to a gentle simmer. - Cook the wild rice
Add wild rice, cover, and simmer until tender (this takes longer than regular rice). - Make it creamy
Stir in milk and cream, then add a simple flour slurry or roux to thicken. - Finish & season
Remove bay leaf, adjust seasoning, and let the soup gently thicken before serving.
Pro Tips & Variations
- Crockpot chicken and wild rice soup: Cook everything except dairy on LOW 6–7 hours, add cream at the end
- Instant Pot: Pressure cook chicken, rice, broth, and veggies, then stir in cream
- Extra flavor: Add a splash of white wine or Dijon mustard
- Dairy-light option: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream
- Storage: Soup thickens as it sits—add broth when reheating
Serving Suggestions
- Warm crusty bread or dinner rolls
- Side salad with vinaigrette
- Roasted vegetables for a complete meal
FAQ: Chicken Wild Rice Soup
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes—add it after the rice is cooked to avoid drying it out.
Is wild rice really rice?
Technically no—it’s a grain, which is why it adds such great texture.
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, but freeze before adding cream for best texture.
Ready to Cozy Up?
This creamy chicken & wild rice soup is perfect for relaxed dinners, meal prep, or impressing guests with minimal effort. Try it once, and it just might become your go-to comfort soup. Leave a comment if you make it—and don’t forget to save it for your next cozy night in 🍲