Introduction
When it comes to comforting, hearty meals that warm you from the inside out, few dishes can rival a bowl of creamy chicken and wild rice soup. Picture this: tender chunks of chicken simmered to perfection, earthy wild rice, and vibrant vegetables all enveloped in a rich, creamy broth. This dish is not only delightful but also incredibly simple to prepare, thanks to the magic of your trusty crockpot.
Whether you’re seeking a satisfying dinner for a chilly evening or something special to serve on a cozy family gathering, this recipe checks all the boxes. It’s nutritious, flavorful, and fills your home with inviting aromas as it cooks. Plus, the slow-cooking method allows the ingredients to meld beautifully, resulting in an irresistible soup that’s sure to please both kids and adults alike.
So grab your crockpot, and let’s get started on this effortless yet delicious creamy chicken and wild rice soup that will quickly become a staple in your home!
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup wild rice blend, rinsed
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
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- Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of the crockpot.
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- Add the rinsed wild rice blend over the chicken.
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- Pour in the 4 cups of chicken broth and add the diced carrots, celery, and chopped onion.
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- Sprinkle in the minced garlic, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and black pepper. Give everything a gentle stir to combine the ingredients.
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- Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours, or high for 4-5 hours, until the chicken and rice are tender.
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- Once cooked, remove the chicken breasts from the crockpot and shred them using two forks.
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- Return the shredded chicken to the soup, then stir in 1 cup of heavy cream to make the soup creamy and luscious.
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- Let the soup cook for an additional 15-20 minutes on low to heat through.
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- Before serving, garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a touch of color.
- Prep Time: 15 min | Total Time: 7 hrs 15 min | Servings: 6
Key Ingredients
- Chicken Breasts: 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts for tender protein.
- Wild Rice Blend: 1 cup, for a nutty flavor and chewy texture.
- Vegetables: 1 cup of diced carrots, 1 cup of diced celery, and 1 cup of chopped onions for robust flavor and nutrition.
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced, to enhance the soup’s aroma.
- Chicken Broth: 4 cups, as the flavorful base of the soup.
- Cream Cheese: 8 ounces, for a rich and creamy texture.
- Heavy Cream: 1 cup, to add creaminess and richness.
- Parsley: Fresh, chopped for garnish and a pop of color.
- Seasonings: Salt, pepper, thyme, and bay leaves to elevate the flavor profile.
Baking Process
While this delicious Crockpot Creamy Chicken & Wild Rice Soup doesn’t involve traditional baking, the process focuses on combining ingredients and allowing the slow cooker to do its magic. Here’s a step-by-step outline of how to prepare your soup:
Ingredients Preparation
- Gather Your Ingredients: Start by assembling everything you’ll need:
- 1 lb chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
- 1 cup wild rice (uncooked)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup half-and-half or heavy cream
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2-3 carrots, diced
- 2-3 celery stalks, diced
- 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: fresh spinach or kale for added greens
The Crockpot Steps
- Layering the Ingredients:
- In your crockpot, start by placing the chicken at the bottom. This ensures that it cooks evenly and stays moist.
- Add the uncooked wild rice on top of the chicken. This allows the rice to absorb all the flavors while cooking.
- Next, add the diced onion, carrots, celery, and garlic evenly over the rice.
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Sprinkle in your dried thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper.
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Adding Liquid:
- Pour the chicken broth over all the ingredients. Ensure the rice is fully submerged, as this will help it cook properly.
Cooking Process
- Setting the Crockpot:
- Cover your crockpot with its lid and set it to cook on low for about 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The longer cooking time on low allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Final Touches
- Shredding Chicken:
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Once the cooking time is up, use two forks to carefully shred the chicken directly in the pot. It will be tender and should shred easily.
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Adding Creaminess:
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Stir in the half-and-half or heavy cream gradually while the soup is still hot. This will make it creamy and luxurious. If you’re adding fresh spinach or kale, now is the time to stir that in too.
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Adjusting Seasoning:
- Taste your soup and adjust any seasonings as needed—more salt, pepper, or herbs can be added based on your preferences.
Serving
- Serve & Enjoy:
- Ladle the soup into bowls and, if desired, garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of cheese. Pair it with crusty bread for a hearty meal.
By following these steps, you’ll create a delightful Crockpot Creamy Chicken & Wild Rice Soup that’s perfect for chilly days, providing warmth and comfort without the fuss of traditional cooking methods. Enjoy!
Serving Suggestions
Crockpot Creamy Chicken & Wild Rice Soup is a delightful and warming dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal:
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Crusty Bread: Serve the soup with slices of freshly baked baguette, sourdough, or a crusty artisan loaf. The bread is perfect for dipping and soaking up the delicious broth.
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Simple Salad: A light mixed greens salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy soup. Consider adding ingredients like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and thinly sliced red onion for extra crunch.
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Cheese Toasties: Grilled cheese sandwiches are always a hit! Use your favorite cheese and bread, and serve them alongside the soup for a comforting classic combination.
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Herb Garnish: Top each bowl of soup with a sprinkle of fresh herbs such as parsley or chives. This not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the flavor.
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Seasoned Crackers: Offer a side of seasoned crackers or breadsticks for some added texture. Consider using garlic-flavored or herb-infused crackers to complement the soup’s flavors.
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Vegetable Platter: For a lighter option, serve a platter of fresh, crunchy vegetables like carrots, celery, and bell peppers. This can provide a nice crunchy contrast to the creamy soup.
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Savory Scones: Try pairing the soup with savory scones or biscuits. Cheddar and chive scones or rosemary biscuits can enhance the overall flavor experience of your meal.
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Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a bit of heat, serve the soup with some hot sauce or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for an added kick.
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Wine Pairing: For an adult twist, consider serving the soup with a crisp white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or a lightly oaked Chardonnay, which can beautifully complement the creamy flavors.
No matter how you choose to serve it, this soup is sure to warm hearts and fill bellies on chilly days! Enjoy!
Conclusion
Crockpot Creamy Chicken & Wild Rice Soup is the ultimate comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction to any meal. Not only is it incredibly easy to prepare, but it also fills your home with tantalizing aromas as it simmers throughout the day. The combination of tender chicken, hearty wild rice, and a rich, creamy broth creates a dish that is both nourishing and delicious. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend gathering, this soup offers versatility in serving and can easily be modified to suit your taste preferences.
Whether you serve it with crusty bread, a light salad, or on its own in a cozy bowl, this soup is sure to become a cherished staple in your home cooking repertoire. Don’t forget to store any leftovers – they’re just as delightful the next day! Give this recipe a try, and you might just discover your new favorite comfort dish. Happy cooking!
