This version of Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup stands out as the best because I’ve perfected the ideal balance between rich, creamy texture and deep, savory flavor. The wild rice adds a nutty, hearty texture that contrasts beautifully with the tender chicken and herbs and spices. Plus, I’ve made the recipe easy to follow so it comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy families who want a homemade meal without the hassle. It’s nourishing, satisfying, and delicious—everything you want in a comforting bowl of soup.

Two bowls of creamy chicken and rice soup garnished with chopped herbs on a white surface, accompanied by slices of bread and salt and pepper shakers.

Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup Recipe

Nothing beats a piping hot bowl of chicken soup on a cold winter night, especially if it’s this chicken soup. This recipe has an herb-infused, velvety smooth, and creamy broth made with a simple buttery roux. But what makes this soup so special is the nutty wild rice, which adds an earthy flavor and extra texture.

With the classic combination of diced onions, carrots, and celery, this is not just an average soup; it’s a complete meal in a bowl. It’s filled with warm and cozy flavors, a wonderful creamy texture, and plenty of nutrients. It’s one of those soups you’ll want to make all year around.

If you love this chicken soup recipe, you should also try this homemade Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup and this Chicken Pot Pie Soup and my slow cooker chicken and rice soup.

Why We Love This Recipe

Delicious recipe – comforting flavors and creamy textures make this such a satisfying and delicious soup.
Complete meal in a bowl – this soup has everything you need for a complete meal.
Meal prep – it freezes really well, allowing you to make a double batch and save some for later.

Ingredients

Wild rice – cook it according to package directions, including the seasoning packet.
Butter – adds a delicious richness to the soup.
White or yellow onion, carrots, and celery- diced into small pieces and sauteed until tender.
Garlic – fresh garlic cloves, minced, gives the soup tons of flavor.
Dried thyme, dried rosemary dried sage, bay leaves – we used dried herbs, but feel free to use fresh herbs if you prefer.
Salt and black pepper – add to taste while the soup is simmering.
All-purpose flour – necessary to thicken the soup to a creamy consistency.
Chicken broth – you can use regular or low-sodium broth.
Half-and-half – you can use heavy cream for a richer broth.
Cooked and diced or shredded chicken – you can boil, roast, or cook it in the Instant Pot.
Chopped fresh parsley – added for garnish, but you can also use other fresh herbs or sliced green onions.

For the exact ingredients, please see the recipe card below.

How to Make Homemade Chicken and Rice Soup

Step One: Prepare the Rice

In a separate pot, cook the wild rice mix according to the package instructions. Once cooked, set it aside.

Step Two: Sautee the Vegetables

A stick of butter sits in the center of a large, round, green-handled pot on a marble countertop.

A pot on a marble surface containing diced onions, sliced celery, and julienned carrots being sauteed in oil. A wooden spoon, minced garlic, and herbs are nearby.

In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt butter over medium-low heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 3-5 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened.

Step Three: Add the Herbs

A pot on a marble counter containing chopped carrots, celery, onions, and several spices being sautéed. A bowl of flour and a wooden spoon are also visible nearby.

Add the garlic, dried thyme, dried rosemary, dried sage, salt, and black pepper to the sautéed vegetables. Stir to combine, and let the herbs release their aroma for about 1 minute.

Step Four: Make the Broth

A green cast iron pot on a marble surface contains chopped vegetables and a mound of flour. A wooden spoon and a jar of yellow liquid are visible in the background.

A hand stirring broth with a wooden spoon in a green-handled pot on a marble countertop.

In the same pot, add the all-purpose flour and whisk continuously to form a smooth roux. Cook the flour mixture for 2-3 minutes, or until the roux is lightly golden.
Slowly pour the chicken broth into the soup pot while stirring to avoid lumps. Add the half-and-half. Continue to stir until the mixture slightly thickens.

Step Five: Add the Chicken and Simmer

A green pot filled with creamy soup, garnished with shredded chicken and two bay leaves, on a marble countertop. A wooden spoon is placed to the right.

Stir in the cooked chicken, cooked wild rice blend, and bay leaves.
Let the soup simmer over medium heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until it reaches your desired consistency. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking or burning.

Step Six: Adjust the Seasonings and Serve

A pot of creamy soup with visible chunks of vegetables and herbs, placed on a marble countertop next to a wooden spoon and a striped kitchen towel.

Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed. Remove each bay leaf from the soup.
Ladle the creamy chicken and wild rice soup into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley

Easy Chicken and Rice Soup Variation and Add-ins

Chicken – you can use leftover chicken, rotisserie chicken, boiled or baked boneless skinless chicken breasts, or chicken thighs.
Broth – If you don’t have half and half, you can make a lighter broth by using whole milk, almond milk, or coconut milk. For a thicker and richer broth, you can use chicken stock and add cream cheese to the broth.
Herbs -You can add some fresh tarragon, basil, and chives if you prefer.
Noodles – turn this recipe into creamy chicken noodle soup by swapping the rice for egg noodles, pasta shells, or other favorite types of pasta.
Heat level – If you like a little heat, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or a dash of hot sauce.

Close-up of a wooden spoon scooping creamy chicken soup with visible ingredients like shredded chicken, carrots, celery, and herbs.

Tips for the Best Version of This Soup

Cooking the wild rice separately helps control its texture and prevents it from becoming too mushy in the soup. Just follow the package instructions for cooking.
If the consistency of the soup becomes too thick, you can thin it with a bit more chicken broth or water. If it’s too thin, let it simmer a bit longer to thicken.
If using leftover cooked chicken, make sure it has not been seasoned with strong herbs or spices that compete with the ones in the soup.

How Should I Store the Leftover Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup?

Store the leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Even though this is a creamy chicken soup, it freezes well for up to a couple of months.

Can I Use a Different Type of Rice?

While wild rice is traditional for this creamy chicken rice soup recipe, you can use other types of rice, like brown rice or long grain white rice, if preferred. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Can I Add Other Vegetables to the Soup?

Certainly! You can customize this creamy soup by adding other fresh vegetables like mushrooms, peas, or spinach for added flavor and nutrition.

Can I Use Raw Chicken in this Recipe?

The soup only simmers for a few minutes, so the chicken needs to be cooked to ensure it’s safe to eat.

Can I Make this Chicken Wild Rice Soup in a Slow Cooker?

Absolutely. Just sauté the veggies, then add them with the other ingredients to the crock pot.

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Categories:

American, Chicken, Chicken, Food, Main Courses, One Pan, Soups,

Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup

Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup Recipe

Why We Love This Recipe

Ingredients