Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup

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Bowl of slow cooker creamy chicken and wild rice soup garnished with herbs

Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup is a well-loved dish that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. This dish stands out for its rich flavors, creamy texture, and the ease of preparation. Perfect for busy families, this recipe allows you to throw all the ingredients into a slow cooker and let it do the work for you. Moreover, with the combination of chicken, wild rice, and fresh vegetables, it provides a hearty and nutritious meal. You can enjoy it as a cozy dinner or a delightful lunch.

The Comfort of Home-Cooked Soup

There’s something special about home-cooked soups. They remind us of family gatherings and cozy evenings spent together. Slow cooker soups, in particular, bring the aroma of home into your kitchen as they cook slowly throughout the day. You can start this soup in the morning and come back to a delicious meal ready to serve.

Nutrition Benefits

This soup offers more than just comforting taste; it’s packed with nutrients. Chicken thighs provide protein, while the wild rice add fiber. The mix of vegetables contributes vitamins and minerals, making this soup a healthy choice any day of the week.

HOW TO MAKE Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
  • 2 cups wild rice blend (uncooked)
  • 1 large onion (diced)
  • 3 large celery stalks (chopped)
  • 2 large carrots (chopped)
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 2 teaspoons dried parsley
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme
  • ½ teaspoon dried sage
  • 4 cups chicken stock
  • 3 cups water
  • ½ cup heavy cream

DIRECTIONS

  1. Prepare the Slow Cooker: Place all of the ingredients except for the heavy cream in a large 6-7 quart slow cooker.
  2. Cooking Time: Set your slow cooker on low and cook for about 5 and 1/2 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through.
  3. Shred the Chicken: Once the chicken is done, take it out of the slow cooker. My favorite way to shred chicken is to use a Kitchen Aid stand mixer with the paddle attachment set to the lowest speed. If you don’t have a stand mixer, you can use forks to shred the chicken right in the slow cooker.
  4. Finish Cooking: After shredding, cook for an additional 30 minutes to 1 hour. This allows the vegetables and rice blend to cook to your liking.
  5. Add Cream: Remove the bay leaves and discard them. Turn off the slow cooker, add the heavy cream, and stir.
  6. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve warm. Adjust the seasoning by adding salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Storing Leftovers: Leftovers can be kept in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 5 days. You can reheat it in the microwave when you’re ready to enjoy again.
  8. Freezing the Soup: This soup also freezes well for up to 3 months. To freeze, let it cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as needed.

 

 

HOW TO SERVE Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup

Serve this delicious soup warm in deep bowls. Pair it with a slice of crusty bread or a fresh side salad for a complete meal. For an extra touch, you can sprinkle some fresh parsley or chives on top just before serving to enhance the presentation and add a pop of color.

HOW TO STORE Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup

To keep leftovers fresh, store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Make sure it cools down completely before sealing. If you need to store it for a longer time, consider freezing it. Pour the cooled soup into freezer-safe bags or containers, mark them with the date, and freeze. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight.

TIPS TO MAKE Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup

  1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables will add more flavor and nutrition to your soup.
  2. Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to tweak the seasoning based on your personal preference. You can add more spices for a bolder flavor.
  3. Wild Rice Selection: If you prefer, you can use a different kind of rice, but ensure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
  4. Cream Alternatives: For a lighter version, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk.
  5. Vegetable Variations: You can add other vegetables like peas, corn, or spinach for added color and flavor.

VARIATIONS

  1. Add Different Proteins: Instead of chicken thighs, try using boneless chicken breasts or even turkey.
  2. Vegetarian Version: To make it vegetarian, omit the chicken and use vegetable stock. Add more vegetables and beans for protein.
  3. Spicy Kick: For a spicy twist, add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes.
  4. Herbal Additions: Fresh herbs like thyme or dill can be added to the soup for an extra layer of flavor.

FAQs

Can I make this soup on the stovetop instead of in a slow cooker?

Yes! You can make this soup on the stovetop. Just follow the same steps in a large pot, bringing it to a boil and then letting it simmer until the chicken and rice are cooked through, usually about 30-40 minutes.

What kind of wild rice should I use?

You can use a wild rice blend that includes white and brown rice. Ensure it is uncooked. If you can’t find wild rice, a long grain rice can be used, but the cooking time may vary.

Can I skip the cream in the recipe?

Yes! You can skip the heavy cream if you want a lighter soup. The soup will still be flavorful and delicious without it. You can also use alternatives like coconut milk for a different flavor.

Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup is a fulfilling dish that invites you to the table. The combination of hearty ingredients, the ease of preparation, and the rich flavors make it a recipe worth trying. Enjoy this cozy soup with friends and family, making lasting memories around your dinner table.