Quick Chicken Wild Rice

A comforting, hearty soup featuring tender chicken, nutty wild rice, and fresh vegetables in a savory broth—perfect for a cozy meal any night of the week.

Leftover rotisserie chicken works well for this recipe. For a dairy free version omit the cream. Add a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness or toss in baby spinach during the last few minutes of cooking for extra greens.

Ingredients

• Proteins: 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
• Grains: 3/4 cup uncooked wild rice blend
• Vegetables: 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 medium yellow onion, diced, 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced, 2 celery stalks, sliced, 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Liquids: 6 cups low sodium chicken broth
• Dairy (optional): 1/2 cup heavy cream or half and half (optional, for a creamy version)
• Herbs & Seasonings: 1 teaspoon dried thyme, 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary, 1 bay leaf, Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste, 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1:

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 4 5 minutes until vegetables are softened.

Step 2:

Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 3:

Add wild rice blend, chicken broth, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 20 25 minutes, or until rice is tender.

Step 4:

Stir in cooked chicken and simmer for an additional 5 minutes, until heated through.

Step 5:

(Optional) For a creamy soup, add the heavy cream or half and half and heat gently without boiling.

Step 6:

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove bay leaf.

Step 7:

Ladle soup into bowls, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve hot.

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Serve with crusty bread for a heartier meal.

Required Tools

Large soup pot, Chefs knife, Cutting board, Wooden spoon, Ladle

Allergen Information

Contains Dairy (if using cream or half and half). Naturally gluten free; ensure broth and other packaged ingredients are gluten free if sensitive.

Nutritional Information

Calories: 320, Total Fat: 11 g, Carbohydrates: 29 g, Protein: 26 g

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This soup is both comforting and versatile, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep.

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ Can I use leftover chicken?

Yes, leftover rotisserie chicken works perfectly, saving time and adding great flavor.

→ Is wild rice necessary or can I substitute it?

Wild rice adds a distinctive nutty texture, but brown rice or other grains can be used if preferred.

→ How do I make this without dairy?

Simply omit the heavy cream or half-and-half for a naturally dairy-free version without sacrificing flavor.

→ Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Baby spinach, peas, or corn can be stirred in during the last few minutes for added color and nutrition.

→ What herbs complement this dish best?

Dried thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf provide a savory base, while fresh parsley adds brightness as garnish.