There’s something about a steaming pot of wild rice soup that makes an ordinary evening feel like home. For me, it all began with a cold Saturday and a nearly empty fridge. I had leftover rotisserie chicken, a lonely bunch of carrots, and a craving for something that felt like a hug. I grabbed the wild rice tucked in the pantry and hoped for the best. What simmered into our bowls that day turned into one of my most requested, most repeated recipes.
This wild rice soup is cozy, creamy, and filling; without feeling heavy. It has that depth of flavor that usually takes hours, but you’ll have it ready in just one pot, under an hour. Bonus? Even my husband, who is picky with “soupy” meals, went back for seconds and thirds. Just like our Crockpot Lasagna Soup, it quickly joined the ranks of our “repeat weekly” list.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Wild Rice Soup
Creamy, But Not Overwhelming
Thanks to a balance of broth and a simple roux, this soup stays light yet luxuriously creamy. The earthy nuttiness of wild rice pairs beautifully with the mild sweetness of carrots and the tender chicken.
One Pot. Easy Cleanup.
Everything cooks in a single pot, making cleanup a breeze. It’s a fantastic meal-prep option and reheats like a dream, just like our Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup.
Customizable for All Diets
Whether you’re keeping it vegetarian or want to throw in leftover turkey, this soup is flexible. You can use any protein, add extra vegetables, or swap in dairy-free alternatives.
Wild Rice Soup
This wild rice soup is creamy, hearty, and loaded with comforting flavors. Made in one pot, it’s perfect for chilly days or weekly meal prep.
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Ingredients
1 tbsp olive oil or butter
1 small onion, diced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup uncooked wild rice blend
6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (optional)
1 cup whole milk or dairy-free alternative
2 tbsp flour
2 tbsp butter
Instructions
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté onion, carrots, and celery for 5 minutes until soft. Add garlic and thyme, and cook 1 minute more.
2. Add the wild rice and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer covered for 40–45 minutes or until rice is tender.
3. Stir in cooked chicken (if using) and simmer until warmed through.
4. In a small saucepan, melt butter and whisk in flour to make a roux. Cook 2 minutes, then slowly whisk in the milk until thickened.
5. Pour the creamy roux into the soup pot and stir well. Simmer for 2–3 minutes to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot with bread.
Notes
Use vegetable broth and omit chicken for a vegetarian version.
For added flavor, try adding mushrooms or kale.
Soup will thicken when stored—add a splash of broth to loosen while reheating.
Can be frozen for up to 2 months in an airtight container.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Soups
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses pantry basics and a few fresh items. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup uncooked wild rice blend
- 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (optional)
- 1 cup whole milk or dairy-free alternative
- 2 tbsp flour
- 2 tbsp butter
Optional add-ins: mushrooms, kale, or chopped spinach for extra depth and nutrition. Looking for something lighter? Our Italian Penicillin Soup is another broth-based comfort bowl you might love.
How to Make Wild Rice Soup (Step-by-Step)
- Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat oil over medium heat. Sauté onions, carrots, and celery for about 5 minutes, or until softened. Add garlic and thyme, cook for 1 more minute. - Add Broth and Rice
Stir in wild rice and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for 40–45 minutes, or until rice is tender. Stir occasionally. - Add Protein (Optional)
Once the rice is cooked, add the shredded chicken. Let it warm through. - Make It Creamy
In a small saucepan, melt butter. Stir in flour to make a roux, cooking 1–2 minutes until golden. Slowly whisk in milk until smooth and thickened. Pour this into your soup and stir well. - Taste and Finish
Adjust salt and pepper as needed. If the soup is too thick, add a splash more broth or water.
Serve with crusty bread, or better yet, some garlic butter toast, and enjoy the coziness.
Tips & Variations
Make it Meatless
Omit the chicken and use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version. Add a can of drained white beans for extra protein.
Use a Wild Rice Blend
Pure wild rice can take up to an hour to cook. A wild rice blend with brown rice cooks faster and gives great texture.
Prep Ahead Tip
You can cook the wild rice in advance or in a rice cooker to save time. Add it in during the final simmer stage.
Freeze Like a Pro
Let the soup cool completely before freezing. Store in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Reheat on the stove with a bit of broth to revive the texture.
Dairy-Free Version
Use olive oil instead of butter and unsweetened oat milk or almond milk. It will still be creamy and comforting.
If you want more soup inspirations check this collection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely. Rotisserie chicken is perfect and adds extra flavor. Just shred and stir it in toward the end.
Does wild rice need to be soaked first?
Not necessary. Just rinse it before cooking. Soaking can shorten cook time but isn’t required.
Can I cook this in a slow cooker?
Yes! Add all ingredients (except the roux and milk) to the slow cooker. Cook on low 6–7 hours. Stir in the creamy roux at the end.
How long does wild rice soup last in the fridge?
It stays fresh for up to 5 days in an airtight container. It may thicken over time, just add broth when reheating.
Final Thoughts
Wild rice soup isn’t just a meal, it’s an experience. It’s the kind of soup you turn to when the world feels loud and you need quiet comfort. With wholesome ingredients and a creamy base that hugs every spoonful, it’s no wonder this recipe has become a staple in my home. Whether you’re warming up after a long day or planning a weekend lunch, this soup is ready to meet you with warmth.
For more easy and satisfying recipes, join me on Pinterest – where good food meets great company!
