Healthy Chicken Wild Rice Soup is a comforting, wholesome bowl filled with tender chicken, nutty wild rice, and a medley of vegetables in a light, creamy broth. It’s the perfect meal for chilly days when you crave something warm but don’t want anything too heavy. Every spoonful feels nourishing and full of cozy flavor.
What makes this soup special is the balance between hearty and light—the wild rice gives it a pleasant bite, while the tender chicken and soft veggies keep it satisfying. It’s easy to make ahead, freezes well, and actually tastes better the next day as the flavors blend together beautifully.
Enjoy it with a slice of crusty bread or a fresh salad, and you’ll have a balanced, delicious meal that’s as comforting as it is good for you.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
These are the ingredients that make this soup rich in flavor and nutrition—and how you can easily adjust them to fit your needs.
Wild Rice: Adds a nutty, chewy texture that gives this soup its signature feel. You can use brown rice or a wild rice blend as a substitute.
Chicken: Boneless, skinless thighs provide the most flavor, but breasts work great for a leaner option. Shredded rotisserie chicken is also a time-saver.
Vegetables: Onion, celery, and carrots form the flavor base. You can add mushrooms, spinach, or kale for extra nutrients.
Broth: Low-sodium chicken broth keeps it light but flavorful. Vegetable broth works too for a vegetarian twist.
Cream or Milk: A touch of half-and-half or light cream gives a velvety texture. Coconut milk is a great dairy-free alternative.
Herbs: Thyme and rosemary bring warmth and aroma. Add bay leaves or parsley for a classic soup flavor.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot or Dutch oven for simmering the soup
- Sharp knife and cutting board for prepping vegetables
- Measuring cups and spoons for accuracy
- Wooden spoon or whisk for stirring
- Tongs or forks for shredding chicken
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use leftover turkey instead of chicken for an easy holiday twist.
- Add mushrooms or spinach for more earthy depth and color.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan or a touch of cheddar for richness.
- Stir in a teaspoon of curry powder or smoked paprika for bold flavor.
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice at the end to brighten the soup.
How to Make Healthy Chicken Wild Rice Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup wild rice, rinsed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt, to taste
- 1 cup light cream or half and half (optional for creaminess)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour or cornstarch (for thickening, optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 45 minutes of simmering. Add an extra 5 to 10 minutes if thickening with cream or starch. Total time: roughly 1 hour from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables
Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion, celery, and carrots, cooking for about 5 to 7 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Add Rice, Chicken, and Broth
Stir in the rinsed wild rice to coat it in the vegetables. Pour in the broth, then add the whole chicken pieces. Sprinkle in thyme, rosemary, pepper, and a pinch of salt. Stir gently and bring to a boil.
3. Simmer Until Tender
Reduce heat to low, cover partially, and simmer for 45 minutes. The chicken should be tender and the wild rice cooked through but slightly chewy.
4. Shred and Return the Chicken
Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the soup, stirring to combine.
5. Make It Creamy (Optional)
If you’d like a creamier version, whisk flour or cornstarch into the cream before adding. Slowly stir the mixture into the soup and simmer for 5 to 10 minutes until thickened.
6. Final Taste and Serve
Taste the soup and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve hot. It pairs perfectly with crusty bread or a crisp side salad.
Pro Tips for Best Texture & Taste
These tricks ensure your soup turns out rich, flavorful, and perfectly balanced every time.
- Use real wild rice—it holds its shape and adds nutty flavor.
- Simmer gently to keep the chicken tender and avoid overcooking.
- Don’t skip the garlic and herbs—they give depth to the broth.
- If freezing, skip the cream and add it when reheating for best texture.
- Let the soup rest 10 minutes before serving for flavors to meld.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, just thaw it completely before cooking. Thawing ensures even cooking and better texture.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Definitely! This soup keeps well for up to 3 days in the fridge and tastes e