why make this recipe
Crockpot Chicken and Wild Rice Soup is a cozy dish perfect for any time of year. It’s easy to make, requires minimal effort, and warms you up on chilly days. This soup is a great way to use simple ingredients to create a hearty meal that the whole family will enjoy. Plus, cooking it in a crockpot allows the flavors to meld beautifully while you go about your day.
how to make Crockpot Chicken and Wild Rice Soup
Ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken breasts
- 1 cup wild rice
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp thyme
- 1 tsp parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- In a crockpot, combine chicken breasts, wild rice, onion, carrots, celery, chicken broth, garlic, thyme, and parsley.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours until chicken is cooked through and wild rice is tender.
- Remove the chicken, shred it, and return it to the soup.
- Stir in heavy cream and heat through before serving.
how to serve Crockpot Chicken and Wild Rice Soup
Serve the soup hot in bowls. You can add fresh herbs on top for extra flavor and a sprinkle of pepper. Pair it with crusty bread or a simple salad on the side for a complete meal. Enjoy it with family and friends for a comforting dining experience.
how to store Crockpot Chicken and Wild Rice Soup
To store leftover soup, allow it to cool completely. Then, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep well in the fridge for 3-4 days. If you want to store it for a longer time, you can freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers. It should stay good for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it on the stove or in the microwave.
tips to make Crockpot Chicken and Wild Rice Soup
- Make sure to use wild rice specifically, as it adds a unique texture and flavor.
- For a creamier soup, add a bit more heavy cream at the end.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms or peas based on your preference.
- Adjust the seasonings to your taste; you can add more herbs or a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.
variation
You can turn this soup into a hearty chicken and wild rice casserole by adding cheese on top before placing it in the oven. Alternatively, if you’re looking to make it lighter, you can replace the heavy cream with milk or leave it out altogether for a broth-based soup.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just be sure to increase the cooking time slightly if you use them.
2. What can I substitute for wild rice?
You can substitute wild rice with brown rice or even quinoa, but cooking times may vary, so keep an eye on it.
3. Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free chicken broth. Always check the ingredient labels.
4. Can I make this soup in advance?
Absolutely! This soup is perfect for meal prep. You can make it a day or two in advance, and the flavors will deepen over time.
5. How do I make this soup spicier?
To add some heat, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or diced jalapeños while cooking.
Crockpot Chicken and Wild Rice Soup
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breasts Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts.
- 1 cup wild rice Wild rice adds a unique texture.
- 1 onion, diced Adds sweetness and depth.
- 2 carrots, diced For color and sweetness.
- 2 stalks celery, diced Adds crunch and flavor.
- 4 cups chicken broth Use low-sodium if desired.
- 1 cup heavy cream For creaminess.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Enhances flavor.
- 1 tsp thyme Dried thyme works well.
- 1 tsp parsley Fresh or dried.
- Salt and pepper to taste Adjust according to preference.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a crockpot, combine chicken breasts, wild rice, onion, carrots, celery, chicken broth, garlic, thyme, and parsley.
- Season with salt and pepper.
Cooking
- Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours until chicken is cooked through and wild rice is tender.
- Remove the chicken, shred it, and return it to the soup.
- Stir in heavy cream and heat through before serving.