Chicken and Wild Rice Soup – The Best Comforting & Hearty Recipe

Introduction to Chicken and Wild Rice Soup

Few dishes bring the same level of comfort as a warm bowl of chicken and wild rice soup. This classic soup combines tender chicken, nutty wild rice, and a medley of vegetables in a rich, savory broth. Whether you enjoy it creamy or light, it’s a go-to meal for cold nights, busy weekdays, or when you need a nourishing dish to boost your energy.

Not only is this soup delicious, but it’s also packed with nutrients. Wild rice is a powerhouse of protein, fiber, and antioxidants, making it a healthier alternative to white rice. Plus, with its deep, earthy flavor, wild rice adds a unique texture that pairs perfectly with juicy chicken and aromatic herbs.

In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about making the perfect chicken and wild rice soup. From traditional stovetop recipes to quick Instant Pot versions, we’ll cover:

• The best ingredients for a flavorful soup
• Creamy vs. non-creamy variations
• A homemade version of Panera’s famous Chicken and Wild Rice Soup
• Quick and easy methods for busy cooks
• Answers to frequently asked questions

Ready to make the ultimate homemade chicken and wild rice soup? Let’s dive in!

What Makes Chicken and Wild Rice Soup Special?

A Comfort Food Favorite

Chicken and wild rice soup is the definition of comfort food. It’s warm, hearty, and full of nourishing ingredients that make it both satisfying and healthy. Unlike traditional chicken noodle soup, this dish has a heartier texture due to the chewy wild rice, which soaks up the broth and enhances the soup’s flavor.

The Unique Flavor of Wild Rice

Wild rice is not technically rice but a nutrient-rich grain harvested from aquatic grasses. It has a robust, slightly smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with the richness of chicken and broth. It’s also packed with fiber, protein, and antioxidants, making it a more nutritious option than regular white or brown rice.

Why This Soup Is Perfect for Any Occasion

This soup is incredibly versatile—you can make it creamy for a rich, indulgent texture, or keep it light and broth-based for a healthier option. It’s also a great make-ahead meal, as the flavors continue to deepen when stored in the fridge. Plus, it freezes well, so you can always have a comforting meal on hand.

Ingredients for the Best Chicken and Wild Rice Soup

To make the best chicken and wild rice soup, you need a well-balanced combination of flavors and textures. Whether you prefer a creamy or broth-based version, choosing the right ingredients is essential for a rich and hearty soup.

Key Ingredients Breakdown

Here’s a closer look at the essential ingredients for a classic chicken and wild rice soup:

1. Chicken

• Best Choice: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (thighs add more flavor due to their higher fat content).
• Alternative: Rotisserie chicken for convenience—just shred and add it at the end of cooking.

2. Wild Rice

• Best Choice: 100% wild rice, which has a nutty flavor and chewy texture.
• Alternative: Wild rice blends (though they cook faster and may not have the same depth of flavor).

3. Vegetables (Mirepoix: Carrots, Celery, Onion)

• Best Choice: Freshly diced onions, carrots, and celery add aromatic sweetness and depth.
• Alternative: Frozen mirepoix mix for a quicker prep time.

4. Garlic

• Adds a bold, rich flavor. Use fresh minced garlic for the best taste, but garlic powder works in a pinch.

5. Mushrooms (Optional but Recommended)

• Adds umami and richness to the broth.
• Best Choice: Baby bella (cremini) mushrooms for a deeper flavor.

6. Broth

• Best Choice: Homemade or low-sodium chicken broth for a clean, deep flavor.
• Alternative: Vegetable broth for a vegetarian-friendly version.

7. Herbs and Seasonings

• Fresh rosemary & thyme – enhance the earthiness of the wild rice.
• Bay leaves – add a subtle depth of flavor.
• Salt & black pepper – balance and enhance all other flavors.

8. Creamy vs. Non-Creamy Options

• For a Creamy Version:
  • Whole milk or half-and-half for richness.
  • Heavy cream for an indulgent texture.
  • Cornstarch slurry (mix cornstarch with water) for a thick, creamy consistency without dairy.
• For a Non-Creamy Version:
  • Simply omit cream and let the starch from wild rice naturally thicken the broth.
  • Coconut milk works as a dairy-free alternative.

9. Leafy Greens (Optional but Healthy)

• Best Choice: Baby spinach or kale for added vitamins and texture.

Variations for Different Dietary Preferences

• Gluten-Free: Use a cornstarch slurry or gluten-free flour instead of all-purpose flour.
• Dairy-Free: Replace dairy with coconut milk or almond milk.
• Low-Carb/Keto: Swap wild rice for cauliflower rice (add it in the last few minutes of cooking).
• Vegetarian/Vegan: Use vegetable broth and swap the chicken for chickpeas or tofu.

With the right ingredients, you can customize chicken and wild rice soup to fit your taste and dietary needs.

How to Make Chicken and Wild Rice Soup

Now that we’ve covered the essential ingredients, let’s go step by step on how to make chicken and wild rice soup. This soup is easy to prepare and can be cooked using different methods, depending on your time and preference.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare Your Ingredients

• Dice the onion, carrots, and celery (mirepoix).
• Mince the garlic.
• Rinse and drain the wild rice.
• If using fresh rosemary and thyme, chop them finely.
• Cut the chicken into large chunks (if cooking from raw) or shred pre-cooked chicken.

2. Stovetop Method (Classic & Flavorful)

The stovetop method allows the flavors to develop deeply while keeping the chicken tender.

Instructions:

1. Sauté the Aromatics
   • Heat 2 tbsp butter or olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
   • Add onion, carrots, and celery, sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
   • Stir in the garlic and cook for another 1 minute.
2. Add Flour for a Slightly Thickened Broth(Skip if making a non-creamy version)
   • Sprinkle ¼ cup all-purpose flour over the vegetables.
   • Stir continuously for 1 minute to cook out the raw flour taste.
3. Add Chicken and Broth
   • Slowly pour in 6 cups of chicken broth, stirring to avoid lumps.
   • Add the wild rice, chicken breasts, mushrooms, rosemary, thyme, and bay leaves.
   • Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 40-45 minutes (or until the wild rice is tender).
4. Shred the Chicken
   • Remove the chicken and shred it using two forks.
   • Return the shredded chicken to the pot and stir.
5. Make It Creamy (Optional)
   • Stir in 1 cup of milk, half-and-half, or coconut milk.
   • If you want it thicker, mix 2 tbsp cornstarch with 3 tbsp cold water and stir it into the soup. Simmer for 5 minutes until thickened.
6. Season and Serve
   • Remove bay leaves, add salt & pepper to taste, and stir in chopped spinach or kale (optional).
   • Serve hot and enjoy!

3. Instant Pot Method (Quick & Easy)

Using a pressure cooker speeds up the process while still delivering deep flavors.

Instructions:

1. Sauté the Vegetables
   • Set the Instant Pot to Sauté mode. Heat butter or oil and add onions, carrots, celery, and garlic. Cook for 5 minutes.
2. Add Ingredients & Cook
   • Add wild rice, raw chicken, mushrooms, herbs, and broth.
   • Close the lid, set the valve to “Sealing,” and pressure cook on High for 30 minutes.
   • Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then do a quick release.
3. Shred Chicken & Add Cream (Optional)
   • Open the lid, shred the chicken, then stir in milk or coconut milk (if making creamy).
4. Finish & Serve
   • Remove bay leaves, adjust seasoning, and serve hot.

4. Slow Cooker Method (Set It & Forget It)

Perfect for meal prepping, this method lets the soup cook slowly for maximum flavor.

Instructions:

1. Combine Everything in the Slow Cooker
   • Add chicken, wild rice, broth, veggies, mushrooms, herbs, and spices.
   • Cover and cook on Low for 6-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours.
2. Shred the Chicken
   • Remove the chicken, shred it, and return it to the slow cooker.
3. Add the Creamy Element (Optional)
   • Stir in 1 cup of milk or a cornstarch slurry.
4. Serve
   • Remove bay leaves, adjust seasoning, and serve warm.

Which Method Is Best for You?

Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup Recipe

If you love rich, velvety soups, then a creamy chicken and wild rice soup is the perfect comfort food. Unlike traditional broth-based versions, this variation adds a smooth, luxurious texture without overpowering the natural flavors of chicken and wild rice.

How to Achieve the Perfect Creamy Texture

The key to a perfectly creamy chicken and wild rice soup lies in the ingredients and techniques used to thicken the broth. Here are the best methods to achieve a creamy consistency:

1. Heavy Cream or Half-and-Half (Traditional & Richest Option)

• Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream or half-and-half at the end of cooking.
• Simmer for 5 minutes until it blends into the soup.

2. Whole Milk (Lighter Creaminess)

• Use 1 to 2 cups of whole milk for a lighter, less rich version.
• If needed, add a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water) to thicken.

3. Roux (Flour & Butter Base for Thickening)

• In a separate pan, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat.
• Whisk in 2 tbsp all-purpose flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until golden brown.
• Slowly whisk in 1 cup of milk and stir until thick. Add this mixture to the soup for a creamy texture.

4. Dairy-Free Option: Coconut Milk or Cashew Cream

• For a dairy-free version, use coconut milk or blended cashew cream.
• This provides a silky texture while keeping the soup completely plant-based.

Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp butter or olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 1 cup wild rice, rinsed
• 8 oz baby bella mushrooms, sliced (optional)
• 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
• 1 tsp fresh thyme (or ½ tsp dried)
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 cup heavy cream or whole milk (or dairy-free substitute)
• 2 cups fresh baby spinach or kale, chopped
• Salt & black pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Sauté the Aromatics
   • In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat.
   • Add onions, carrots, celery, and garlic; sauté for 5 minutes until softened.
2. Make a Roux(for extra creaminess, optional)
   • Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring continuously.
3. Add Broth and Chicken
   • Slowly pour in chicken broth, stirring to prevent lumps.
   • Add wild rice, chicken, mushrooms, rosemary, thyme, and bay leaves.
4. Simmer Until Rice is Tender
   • Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 40-45 minutes.
   • Stir occasionally to prevent rice from sticking.
5. Shred the Chicken
   • Remove chicken, shred with two forks, then return it to the pot.
6. Add the Creamy Element
   • Stir in cream, milk, or coconut milk.
   • If needed, mix 1 tbsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp water and stir it in for extra thickness.
7. Final Touches
   • Remove bay leaves and stir in baby spinach or kale.
   • Add salt & black pepper to taste.
8. Serve & Enjoy!
   • Ladle into bowls and enjoy with crusty bread or crackers.

Alternative Ingredients for a Lighter Version

Chicken Wild Rice Soup Without Cream

If you prefer a lighter, broth-based soup, you can enjoy chicken and wild rice soup without cream while still getting a rich, comforting flavor. This version is healthier, dairy-free, and lower in calories, making it a great option for those watching their diet or avoiding dairy.

How to Make Chicken Wild Rice Soup Without Cream

The key to making a delicious non-creamy wild rice soup is to build a deep, savory broth. Since we’re skipping dairy, we’ll focus on herbs, aromatics, and natural thickeners to add texture and depth.

Ingredients for a Non-Creamy Chicken Wild Rice Soup

• 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 1 cup wild rice, rinsed
• 8 oz baby bella mushrooms, sliced (optional)
• 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
• 1 tsp fresh thyme (or ½ tsp dried)
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 tbsp soy sauce (adds umami depth)
• 2 tsp lemon juice (for brightness)
• 2 cups fresh baby spinach or kale, chopped
• Salt & black pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Sauté the Vegetables
   • Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
   • Add onions, carrots, and celery and sauté for 5 minutes until softened.
   • Stir in garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
2. Build the Broth
   • Pour in chicken broth and add chicken breasts, wild rice, mushrooms, herbs, bay leaves, and soy sauce.
   • Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 40-45 minutes.
3. Shred the Chicken
   • Remove the chicken, shred it with two forks, and return it to the pot.
4. Enhance the Flavor
   • Stir in lemon juice for brightness and adjust salt & pepper as needed.
5. Add Greens & Serve
   • Remove bay leaves and stir in baby spinach or kale.
   • Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers.

Tips for a More Flavorful Broth

• Roast the chicken before adding it to the soup for a richer flavor.
• Use homemade chicken broth for the best taste.
• Add extra herbs like oregano or basil for a deeper aroma.
• Simmer longer (up to an hour) for more infused flavors.

Why Choose a Broth-Based Wild Rice Soup?

Lighter & Healthier: Fewer calories and fat without cream.
Dairy-Free & Gluten-Free: Perfect for dietary restrictions.
Easy to Freeze: The broth-based soup holds up better when frozen compared to creamy versions.

Chicken and Wild Rice Soup Inspired by Panera

If you love Panera Bread’s Chicken and Wild Rice Soup, you’ll be excited to know that you can make a copycat version at home. This soup is known for its creamy, slightly thickened broth, tender chicken, wild rice blend, and a savory mix of herbs and spices. The best part? You can tweak it to match your personal taste while keeping it just as comforting and delicious.

What Makes Panera’s Chicken and Wild Rice Soup Special?

Mild yet rich flavor: The broth is creamy but not overly thick.
Wild rice blend: Unlike 100% wild rice, Panera uses a mix of wild and long-grain rice.
Subtle seasoning: A mix of garlic, onion, parsley, and turmeric gives it a signature flavor.
No mushrooms: Unlike some homemade versions, Panera’s soup is mushroom-free.

Ingredients for Copycat Panera Chicken and Wild Rice Soup

• 2 tbsp butter or olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 1 cup wild rice blend (not pure wild rice)
• 1/2 tsp turmeric (for color and subtle warmth)
• 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
• 1 tsp dried parsley (or 1 tbsp fresh parsley)
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 cup half-and-half or whole milk
• Salt to taste

How to Make Panera-Style Chicken and Wild Rice Soup

1. Sauté the Aromatics
   • In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat.
   • Add onions, carrots, and celery, sautéing for 5 minutes until soft.
   • Stir in garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
2. Make the Roux (For a Creamy Texture)
   • Stir in flour and mix well for 1-2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste.
3. Add Broth and Chicken
   • Slowly pour in chicken broth, stirring to prevent lumps.
   • Add chicken breasts, wild rice blend, turmeric, black pepper, parsley, and bay leaves.
   • Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat, cover, and let simmer for 40 minutes until rice is tender.
4. Shred the Chicken
   • Remove chicken, shred with two forks, then return to the pot.
5. Add the Creamy Element
   • Stir in half-and-half or whole milk, letting it warm up for 5 minutes.
6. Final Adjustments & Serve
   • Remove bay leaves and season with salt to taste.
   • Serve hot with bread or crackers.

How to Make It Even More Like Panera’s

Use a wild rice blend, not pure wild rice – This keeps the texture soft.
Don’t over-season – The mild turmeric and parsley create a subtle flavor.
Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream – This keeps it creamy but light.

Want a Lighter Version?

• Skip the flour and let the starch from the wild rice naturally thicken the soup.
• Use coconut milk or almond milk for a dairy-free alternative.
• Substitute chicken with chickpeas for a vegetarian twist.

Nutritional Benefits of Chicken and Wild Rice Soup

Chicken and wild rice soup is a balanced meal packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients.

Why This Soup is Healthy

• High in Protein – Chicken provides lean protein, essential for muscle repair and overall health.
• Rich in Fiber – Wild rice contains fiber that supports digestion and heart health.
• Low in Fat – The broth-based version is naturally low in fat, while the creamy version can be adjusted for a lighter option.
• Vitamin-Packed – Carrots, celery, and spinach add vitamins A, C, and K, supporting immunity and bone health.
• Gluten-Free – Naturally gluten-free when made without flour.

Best for Diets Like

• Weight Management – Low-calorie and filling.
• Heart Health – Low in saturated fat and rich in antioxidants.
• Immune Boosting – Nutrients from vegetables and lean protein.

FAQs on Chicken and Wild Rice Soup

How Do You Make Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup?

To make it creamy, add heavy cream, half-and-half, or whole milk at the end. A roux (flour and butter) or a cornstarch slurry can also help thicken it.

What Is the Best Way to Make Chicken Wild Rice Soup Without Cream?

Skip dairy and let the natural starch from wild rice slightly thicken the broth. Adding extra vegetables or a splash of coconut milk can provide a rich texture without cream.

How Can You Make a Copycat Panera Chicken and Wild Rice Soup?

Use a wild rice blend, half-and-half instead of heavy cream, and mild spices like turmeric and parsley. Keep it slightly thick but not too heavy.

What’s the Easiest Way to Prepare This Soup?

Use rotisserie chicken, pre-cooked wild rice, and an Instant Pot to reduce cooking time to under 30 minutes. Frozen mirepoix mix also speeds up prep.

Conclusion: Enjoying Your Perfect Bowl of Chicken and Wild Rice Soup

Chicken and wild rice soup is a comforting, nutritious meal that’s easy to customize. Whether you prefer a creamy version, a lighter broth-based option, or a Panera-style copycat, this soup is perfect for any season.

For a quick and easy meal, use rotisserie chicken and pre-cooked wild rice. If you have time, let it simmer to develop rich flavors. Either way, this soup is a satisfying dish packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients.

Make a batch today and enjoy a warm, hearty bowl with your favorite bread or crackers. Want to store leftovers? It keeps well in the fridge for 5 days and freezes for up to 3 months.