Slow Cooker Chicken and Wild Rice Soup is a hearty, comforting dish that’s perfect for cold days. With minimal prep and less than 10 ingredients, this recipe allows you to enjoy a warm, creamy, and delicious meal with very little effort. It’s great for meal prepping, freezes well, and tastes even better the next day.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

1.5 lbs. chicken breasts
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 cup uncooked wild rice
2 cups mirepoix (diced celery, carrots, and onions)
6 cups chicken broth
½ tsp thyme
½ tsp rosemary
2 bay leaves
12 dashes of hot sauce (adjust to taste)
½ cup butter
¾ cup flour
2 cups whole milk + up to 2 cups additional if needed
Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)

Directions

Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper and place them in the slow cooker.
Add wild rice, mirepoix, chicken broth, thyme, rosemary, bay leaves, and hot sauce. Cover and cook on low for 7 hours, or until chicken is fully cooked and rice is tender.
Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred using two forks. Return shredded chicken to the pot.
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and whisk in flour until lightly browned (about 1 minute). Gradually whisk in 2 cups of milk, cooking until slightly thickened (4-5 minutes). Season with salt and pepper.
Stir the milk mixture into the slow cooker. If the soup is too thick, add more milk or water until the desired consistency is reached.
Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Nutritional Value (Per Serving)

Calories: ~350-400 kcal
Protein: ~30g
Carbohydrates: ~35g
Fat: ~12g
- Saturated Fat: ~6g
Fiber: ~3g
Sugar: ~4g
Sodium: ~800-1000mg (varies based on broth and added salt)
Cholesterol: ~80mg

This comforting and nutritious soup is perfect for an easy family dinner or meal prep for the week! 🍲

The Appeal of Slow Cooker Meals

One of the biggest advantages of using a slow cooker is the convenience it offers. Unlike traditional stovetop methods that require constant monitoring, slow cookers allow you to set your ingredients and forget about them until mealtime. This recipe, in particular, is incredibly low-maintenance—just toss everything into the pot and let it cook for hours, filling your home with an inviting aroma. Plus, slow cooker meals often develop deeper, richer flavors because the ingredients have ample time to blend and enhance one another.

Why Chicken and Wild Rice?

Chicken and wild rice is a classic combination that has been enjoyed in various cultures for centuries. The lean protein from the chicken provides essential nutrients and keeps the dish light, while wild rice offers a hearty texture and an earthy flavor. Unlike white rice, wild rice is packed with fiber and essential minerals, making it a healthier option that adds to the soup’s overall nutritional value. The inclusion of mirepoix—a mix of diced celery, carrots, and onions—further enhances the depth of flavor while adding a subtle sweetness to balance the savory elements.

The Creamy Factor

What sets this soup apart from other chicken and rice soups is its creamy consistency. The addition of a simple roux, made with butter, flour, and milk, transforms the broth into a luscious, velvety soup. Unlike heavy cream-based soups, this method keeps the dish indulgent without being overwhelmingly rich. The thickness of the soup can be easily adjusted by adding more or less milk, making it versatile for different preferences.

Meal Prep and Storage

This Slow Cooker Chicken and Wild Rice Soup is ideal for meal prepping. Since it stores well in the refrigerator for up to five days, it’s a great option for those who like to plan their meals ahead of time. Simply portion out the soup into airtight containers, and you have a ready-to-eat meal that just needs to be reheated. Additionally, this soup freezes exceptionally well. Store it in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and warm it up on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Health Benefits of Wild Rice

Wild rice is often considered a superfood due to its impressive nutritional profile. It contains higher protein content compared to other rice varieties, making it an excellent choice for those looking to maintain a balanced diet. It’s also rich in antioxidants, which help combat oxidative stress in the body. Additionally, wild rice is gluten-free, making it a fantastic ingredient for individuals with gluten sensitivities or dietary restrictions.

Customization and Variations

One of the best things about this soup is how adaptable it is. If you’re looking to add more vegetables, consider throwing in mushrooms, bell peppers, or even spinach for an extra dose of vitamins and minerals. If you prefer a spicier kick, increasing the amount of hot sauce or adding a pinch of cayenne pepper will elevate the heat level. For those who want a dairy-free version, replacing the milk with coconut milk or a plant-based alternative works just as well without compromising on creaminess.

Serving Suggestions

This soup is incredibly satisfying on its own, but pairing it with a side dish can make for a well-rounded meal. A slice of crusty bread or a warm baguette is perfect for dipping into the creamy broth. If you want a lighter side, a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast. For an extra touch of indulgence, sprinkle some freshly grated Parmesan or cheddar cheese over the soup right before serving.

Ideal for Every Season

While this soup is particularly comforting during the colder months, it’s a great dish to enjoy year-round. In the winter, it serves as a warming bowl of nourishment, while in the summer, it can be a lighter alternative to heavier stews. Since it’s made in a slow cooker, there’s no need to stand over a hot stove, making it a convenient option even when temperatures rise.

Family-Friendly and Crowd-Pleasing

This soup is an excellent choice for families and gatherings. It’s mild yet flavorful enough to appeal to a wide range of palates, including children. The creamy texture and hearty ingredients make it a satisfying meal that even picky eaters will enjoy. If you’re hosting a dinner or a casual get-together, serving this soup alongside a variety of toppings—such as croutons, shredded cheese, or crispy bacon—allows guests to customize their bowls to their liking.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Chicken and Wild Rice Soup is a recipe that truly checks all the boxes: it’s easy to prepare, packed with nutrients, and incredibly delicious. The combination of tender chicken, nutty wild rice, and a creamy, flavorful broth makes for a comforting and satisfying meal. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner, a meal prep solution, or a dish to share with loved ones, this soup is a perfect choice. Plus, with its ability to be customized to suit different dietary needs and preferences, it’s a versatile addition to any recipe collection. Try it once, and it’s sure to become a staple in your home!

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