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Creamy Crockpot Chicken Wild Rice Soup

Creamy Crockpot Chicken Wild Rice Soup

This Creamy Crockpot Chicken Wild Rice Soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly evenings or cozy gatherings. Bursting with flavor and packed with nutritious ingredients, this soup is not only easy to prepare but also offers a delightful mix of tender chicken, wild rice, and vibrant vegetables. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a solo bowl, this creamy soup promises warmth and satisfaction.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Effortless Preparation – Simply dump all the ingredients into the crockpot and let it do the work for you!
  • Rich in Flavor – The combination of savory spices and fresh vegetables creates a rich taste that will please everyone.
  • Versatile Meal – Perfect as a main course or paired with crusty bread for dipping; it’s suitable for any occasion.
  • Nutritious Ingredients – Packed with protein from chicken and fiber from wild rice; this soup is as healthy as it is delicious.
  • Comforting Texture – Creamy yet hearty, each spoonful feels like a warm hug on a cold day.

Tools and Preparation

To make this creamy soup, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure everything runs smoothly in your kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

  • Slow cooker
  • Cutting board
  • Knife
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

  • Slow cooker – This is the heart of the recipe, allowing for slow cooking that enhances flavors beautifully.
  • Cutting board – A sturdy board makes chopping vegetables safe and easy.
  • Knife – A sharp knife ensures quick and precise cutting, making prep time efficient.
  • Whisk – Ideal for blending flour into milk for that silky smooth texture in the soup.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 Β½ lb chicken breasts
  • 4 carrots, sliced
  • 3 celery stalks, chopped
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 8-10 cups chicken broth (I use low sodium broth)
  • 1 cup uncooked wild rice (rinsed)
  • 4 garlic cloves
  • 1 bay leaf

Seasonings

  • 1 Tbsp Italian Seasoning
  • 1 tsp thyme
  • 1 tsp parsley
  • Β½ tsp sea salt
  • Β½ tsp cracked pepper

Creamy Mixture

  • ΒΌ cup flour (gluten free will work as well)
  • Β½ cup half and half
  • Β½ cup whole milk

How to Make Creamy Crockpot Chicken Wild Rice Soup

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by dicing the onion, slicing the carrots, chopping the celery, and mincing the garlic. This will help release their flavors while cooking.

Step 2: Layer Ingredients in the Crockpot

Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of your slow cooker. Top them with minced garlic, Italian seasoning, thyme, parsley, sea salt, and cracked pepper. Then add diced onion, sliced carrots, and chopped celery over everything.

Step 3: Add Broth and Rice

Pour in 8 cups of chicken broth along with the rinsed wild rice. Toss in a bay leaf for added flavor. Cover your crockpot securely.

Step 4: Cook It Low and Slow

Set your slow cooker to low heat for 6-8 hours. Allow it to cook until the wild rice is soft and fully cooked.

Step 5: Shred Chicken

Once your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165Β°F (75Β°C), remove it from the crockpot. Shred the chicken using two forks before adding it back into the soup.

Step 6: Create Creaminess

In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, half and half, and whole milk until there are no lumps left. Gradually pour this mixture into your soup while stirring continuously until it reaches a creamy consistency. If it’s too thick for your liking, simply stir in more broth until you reach your desired thickness.

Step 7: Serve

Ladle your creamy soup into bowls and serve it hot! Pair it with some crusty bread and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy every comforting bite!

How to Serve Creamy Crockpot Chicken Wild Rice Soup

Serving Creamy Crockpot Chicken Wild Rice Soup can enhance your dining experience. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy this comforting dish.

With Fresh Herbs

  • Garnish with parsley: Chopped fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a burst of freshness.
  • Sprinkle with chives: Finely chopped chives introduce a mild onion flavor that complements the soup.

Accompanied by Bread

  • Serve with crusty bread: A hearty loaf helps soak up the delicious soup, making each bite satisfying.
  • Pair with garlic bread: The rich flavors of garlic bread make for an indulgent pairing.

As a Complete Meal

  • Top with shredded cheese: A sprinkle of cheese can add creaminess and a savory note.
  • Include a side salad: A fresh green salad balances the richness of the soup.

How to Perfect Creamy Crockpot Chicken Wild Rice Soup

Creating the perfect Creamy Crockpot Chicken Wild Rice Soup requires some simple tips for optimal flavor and texture.

  • Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables enhance the taste and nutrition of your soup.
  • Adjust seasoning to taste: Always taste before serving; you might want to add more salt or herbs for depth.
  • Cook on low for best results: Slow cooking allows flavors to meld beautifully, ensuring a rich taste.
  • Shred chicken finely: This ensures every spoonful has tender chicken pieces throughout the soup.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Crockpot Chicken Wild Rice Soup

Complement your meal with these tasty side dishes that pair wonderfully with Creamy Crockpot Chicken Wild Rice Soup.

  1. Garden Salad: A mix of greens, cucumbers, and tomatoes dressed lightly for a refreshing side.
  2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized add a sweet and savory balance.
  3. Cheesy Garlic Biscuits: Fluffy biscuits infused with garlic and cheese are perfect for dipping into the soup.
  4. Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed salad featuring quinoa, bell peppers, and lime dressing adds a zesty touch.
  5. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins provide a delightful contrast to the creamy soup.
  6. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli offers a nutritious addition that pairs well in flavor and texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creamy Crockpot Chicken Wild Rice Soup, avoiding common mistakes can enhance the overall flavor and texture of your dish.

  • Skipping the Rinsing Step: Not rinsing wild rice can lead to a gritty soup. Always rinse your rice thoroughly to remove excess starch and debris.
  • Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking chicken for too long can make it dry. Monitor the cooking time and remove the chicken as soon as it reaches 165Β°F to keep it juicy.
  • Ignoring Seasoning: Neglecting to taste and adjust seasoning can leave your soup bland. Taste throughout the cooking process and add salt or spices as needed.
  • Not Using Enough Liquid: Insufficient broth can result in a thick, unappetizing soup. Ensure you add enough broth to achieve your desired consistency, especially after adding cream.
  • Forgetting to Shred the Chicken: Leaving the chicken whole means less flavor integration. Always shred or chop the chicken before returning it to the pot for even distribution of flavors.
Creamy

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

  • Store leftover soup in an airtight container.
  • It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Creamy Crockpot Chicken Wild Rice Soup

  • Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
  • Use freezer-safe containers or bags; it can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Creamy Crockpot Chicken Wild Rice Soup

  • Oven: Preheat to 350Β°F, place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
  • Microwave: Pour servings into a microwave-safe bowl and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
  • Stovetop: Heat on medium-low in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Creamy Crockpot Chicken Wild Rice Soup.

How do I make Creamy Crockpot Chicken Wild Rice Soup gluten-free?

You can easily make this recipe gluten-free by substituting regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend when thickening the soup.

Can I use other types of meat?

Yes! You can replace chicken with turkey or even beef if you prefer. Adjust cooking times accordingly based on your choice.

How do I add more vegetables?

Feel free to add other vegetables like peas or corn during the last hour of cooking for extra nutrition and flavor.

What should I serve with Creamy Crockpot Chicken Wild Rice Soup?

This hearty soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Crockpot Chicken Wild Rice Soup is not just filling; it’s also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or spices. This comforting dish is perfect for cold evenings or any time you crave something warm and satisfying. Give this easy recipe a try; you won’t regret it!

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Creamy Crockpot Chicken Wild Rice Soup

Creamy Crockpot Chicken Wild Rice Soup


  • Author: Adeline
  • Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: Serves approximately 6

Description

Creamy Crockpot Chicken Wild Rice Soup is the epitome of comfort food, perfect for chilly evenings or cozy gatherings. This delightful dish combines tender chicken, hearty wild rice, and colorful vegetables, all simmered together in a rich, creamy broth. Not only is it easy to prepareβ€”just toss the ingredients into your slow cookerβ€”but it also offers a nourishing meal that’s packed with flavor and nutrition. Whether you’re serving a crowd or indulging in a solo bowl, this soup will warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 Β½ lb chicken breasts
  • 4 carrots, sliced
  • 3 celery stalks, chopped
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 8–10 cups chicken broth (low sodium recommended)
  • 1 cup uncooked wild rice (rinsed)
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 Tbsp Italian seasoning
  • 1 tsp thyme
  • 1 tsp parsley
  • Β½ tsp sea salt
  • Β½ tsp cracked pepper
  • ΒΌ cup flour (gluten-free optional)
  • Β½ cup half and half
  • Β½ cup whole milk

Instructions

  1. Dice onion, slice carrots, chop celery, and mince garlic.
  2. Layer chicken at the bottom of the slow cooker; top with garlic and seasonings.
  3. Add vegetables and pour in chicken broth along with rinsed wild rice and a bay leaf.
  4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours until wild rice is soft.
  5. Shred cooked chicken and return to soup.
  6. Combine flour, half and half, and milk until smooth; stir into soup until creamy.
  7. Serve hot with crusty bread or garnished with fresh herbs.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 6 hours
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Slow cooking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 85mg

Keywords: For added nutrition, consider including peas or corn during the last hour of cooking. Adjust seasoning to taste before serving to enhance flavors. This recipe can easily be made gluten-free by using a suitable flour alternative.

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π‚π‘πžπŸ Adeline

Pro Chef & Blogger

Welcome to my culinary corner, where passion meets the plate! I’m a chef with a love for creating delicious and inspiring dishes. Here, I’ll share my best recipes, tips, and tricks to help you bring a taste of magic into your kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, you’ll find something to ignite your passion for cooking. Join me on this flavorful journey and let’s make every meal memorable. Happy cooking.

Chef Adeline