This Crock Pot Chicken and Wild Rice Soup is the ultimate comfort food, blending tender chicken, hearty wild rice, and a medley of fresh vegetables. Enhanced by savory dried herbs and a touch of butter, it delivers a rich, satisfying flavor perfect for chilly days or when craving something warm and nourishing. Gluten-free and meal-prep friendly, this recipe is a versatile and wholesome addition to your menu.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breasts
- 1 small onion or large shallot, minced
- 2 carrots, thinly sliced (~1 cup)
- 2 stalks celery, thinly sliced
- 2 garlic cloves, pressed or minced
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon dried ground sage
- Small pinch dried rosemary, crushed between your fingers
- 1 large or 2 small bay leaves
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 3/4 cup wild blend rice (Lundberg Farms recommended)
Directions
- Add all ingredients into a 6-quart crock pot and stir well.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 4 hours, or until the chicken breasts are cooked through and the rice is tender.
- Remove the chicken from the crock pot, shred it using a fork, and stir the shredded chicken back into the soup.
- Serve hot. The soup will thicken slightly as it cools.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 4 hours
Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 395 kcal per serving
- Servings: 6 servings
This hearty and customizable recipe is sure to become a family favorite, offering warmth, flavor, and nutrition in every bowl!
A Heartwarming Delight: Crock Pot Chicken and Wild Rice Soup
When the temperatures drop, there’s something undeniably comforting about a warm, hearty bowl of soup. Among the many recipes that capture the essence of comfort food, Crock Pot Chicken and Wild Rice Soup stands out as a classic favorite. This recipe isn’t just about flavor; it’s a wholesome, gluten-free meal that brings together tender chicken, robust wild rice, and a medley of fresh vegetables in a savory broth. Perfect for meal prepping or a cozy family dinner, this soup is sure to be a staple in your culinary repertoire.
Why This Soup Stands Out
The Crock Pot Chicken and Wild Rice Soup isn’t just another soup recipe; it’s an experience in every spoonful. It boasts a blend of hearty and healthy ingredients that make it both satisfying and nutritious. Here are some key highlights that make this dish a standout:
- Versatile Comfort Food: Whether you’re serving it on a snowy evening or enjoying it as a midday pick-me-up, this soup adapts to any occasion. Its rich and satisfying flavors feel like a warm hug in a bowl.
- Gluten-Free Goodness: For those with dietary restrictions, this recipe is a win. It’s naturally gluten-free, making it accessible without compromising on taste or texture.
- Effortless Cooking: The crock pot method simplifies the cooking process. All you need to do is add the ingredients, set the timer, and let the slow cooker work its magic. It’s perfect for busy days when you want a nutritious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with lean chicken, vegetables, and wild rice, this soup offers a well-balanced nutritional profile. It’s high in protein, fiber, and essential vitamins, making it a wholesome option for the entire family.
- Customizable to Your Taste: While the recipe is already delightful, it’s incredibly adaptable. Add more herbs for extra aroma, toss in additional vegetables for variety, or make it creamier with a splash of dairy or coconut milk.
The Star Ingredients
The success of this soup lies in its carefully chosen ingredients, each bringing a unique element to the dish:
- Chicken Breasts: Lean, protein-packed, and easy to shred, chicken breasts absorb the flavors of the broth beautifully.
- Wild Rice: Known for its nutty flavor and chewy texture, wild rice adds heartiness and substance to the soup, making it a filling meal.
- Vegetables: The combination of carrots, celery, and onion provides a classic mirepoix base, contributing depth and sweetness to the broth.
- Herbs and Spices: Dried thyme, sage, rosemary, and bay leaves elevate the soup with earthy and aromatic notes, while garlic and butter round out the flavor profile.
- Chicken Broth: A rich, savory base ties everything together, delivering a satisfying umami punch.
Health Benefits of Crock Pot Chicken and Wild Rice Soup
This recipe isn’t just delicious—it’s also packed with health benefits:
- High in Protein: Chicken provides essential amino acids that support muscle growth and repair.
- Rich in Fiber: Wild rice and vegetables contribute dietary fiber, aiding digestion and promoting a feeling of fullness.
- Low in Fat: With a controlled amount of butter and lean chicken, the soup remains light yet satisfying.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Carrots offer beta-carotene, celery adds antioxidants, and garlic is known for its immune-boosting properties.
Meal Prep and Storage Tips
This soup is a meal prepper’s dream. You can make it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how:
- Storage: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days.
- Freezing: This soup freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving a bit of room for expansion, and store for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm the soup on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water if it has thickened too much.
Creative Twists to Try
While the base recipe is exceptional, there’s room to experiment:
- Creamy Variation: Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream or coconut milk during the last 15 minutes of cooking for a luscious, creamy texture.
- Vegetarian Option: Swap chicken with chickpeas or tofu and use vegetable broth for a vegetarian-friendly version.
- Add Greens: Incorporate fresh spinach or kale during the last 10 minutes of cooking for added nutrition.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce for a subtle heat.
Occasions to Serve
This soup fits seamlessly into various occasions:
- Family Dinners: Its comforting flavors make it a hit with kids and adults alike.
- Meal Prep Sessions: Batch-cook this soup to save time and effort during busy weeks.
- Gatherings: Serve it as a starter for casual get-togethers or holiday feasts.
- Healing Comfort: Feeling under the weather? This soup is soothing, easy to digest, and packed with nutrients.
Conclusion: A Soup for the Soul
Crock Pot Chicken and Wild Rice Soup is more than just a recipe; it’s a bowl of warmth, flavor, and nourishment. Its combination of tender chicken, hearty wild rice, and vibrant vegetables creates a harmonious medley that satisfies both the palate and the soul. The ease of preparation in a crock pot makes it accessible to cooks of all skill levels, while its customizable nature ensures it can cater to a variety of tastes and dietary needs.
Whether you’re looking for a reliable meal prep option, a comforting dinner for your family, or a dish to serve at a gathering, this soup checks all the boxes. One taste, and it’s likely to become a cherished favorite in your kitchen. With its balance of convenience, nutrition, and deliciousness, Crock Pot Chicken and Wild Rice Soup is a recipe that truly delivers on all fronts. So, grab your crock pot and prepare to enjoy the ultimate comfort food!
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Crock Pot Chicken and Wild Rice Soup
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
Description
This Crock Pot Chicken and Wild Rice Soup is the ultimate comfort food, blending tender chicken, hearty wild rice, and a medley of fresh vegetables. Enhanced by savory dried herbs and a touch of butter, it delivers a rich, satisfying flavor perfect for chilly days or when craving something warm and nourishing. Gluten-free and meal-prep friendly, this recipe is a versatile and wholesome addition to your menu.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breasts
- 1 small onion or large shallot, minced
- 2 carrots, thinly sliced (~1 cup)
- 2 stalks celery, thinly sliced
- 2 garlic cloves, pressed or minced
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon dried ground sage
- Small pinch dried rosemary, crushed between your fingers
- 1 large or 2 small bay leaves
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 3/4 cup wild blend rice (Lundberg Farms recommended)
Instructions
- Add all ingredients into a 6-quart crock pot and stir well.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 4 hours, or until the chicken breasts are cooked through and the rice is tender.
- Remove the chicken from the crock pot, shred it using a fork, and stir the shredded chicken back into the soup.
- Serve hot. The soup will thicken slightly as it cools.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 395 kcal per serving