Creamy Crockpot Chicken Wild Rice Soup Recipe

If you are looking for the ultimate cozy meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, look no further than this Creamy Crockpot Chicken Wild Rice Soup. Packed with tender chicken, hearty wild rice, and a medley of fresh vegetables, this soup perfectly balances comforting creaminess with robust flavors that develop over hours of slow cooking. Whether you’re craving a simple weeknight dinner or a dish to share on a chilly afternoon, this soup will quickly become your go-to comfort food.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients might sound straightforward, but each one plays a vital role in crafting the depth and richness of this soup’s flavor, texture, and heartiness. Simple, wholesome, and thoughtfully combined, they come together effortlessly to make this dish shine.

• 1 ½ lb chicken breasts: Tender protein that shreds beautifully for a satisfying bite.
• 4 carrots, sliced: Adds a subtle sweetness and vibrant color to the soup.
• 3 celery stalks, chopped: Brings a mild aromatic crunch and balances the flavors.
• 1 onion, diced: Builds the savory base with its rich, mellow flavor.
• 8-10 cups chicken broth, low sodium: The hearty liquid foundation that infuses the soup with comforting depth.
• 1 cup wild rice (not a boxed mix): Nutty and chewy, adding texture and earthiness.
• 4 garlic cloves, minced: Gives that punch of aromatic warmth without overpowering.
• 1 bay leaf: A subtle herbal undertone that enhances the complexity.
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend that lifts the herbal notes beautifully.
• 1 teaspoon thyme: Complements the Italian seasoning with a slightly minty earthiness.
• 1 teaspoon parsley: Freshness and a touch of brightness to balance the richness.
• ¼ cup flour (gluten-free works too): Essential for thickening the soup into that signature creamy goodness.
• ½ cup half and half: Adds luscious creaminess without overpowering the other ingredients.
• ½ cup whole milk: Rounds out the texture for a silky finish.
• ½ teaspoon sea salt: To heighten all those wonderful flavors.
• ½ teaspoon cracked pepper: Just enough to add a gentle kick and warmth.

How to Make Creamy Crockpot Chicken Wild Rice Soup

Step 1: Prep the Vegetables and Chicken

Begin by dicing the onion, slicing the carrots, chopping the celery, and mincing the garlic. These fresh vegetables provide the aromatic foundation that slowly infuses the broth. Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of your crockpot—that way, they cook thoroughly in the juices. Sprinkle the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, thyme, parsley, sea salt, and cracked pepper right on top of the chicken to let those savory spices soak in deep.

Step 2: Layer in the Vegetables and Add Broth

Next, spread your diced onion, carrots, and celery evenly over the chicken. Pour in 8 cups of the low sodium chicken broth—if you want a soup with slightly more liquid, go up to 10 cups. Add the wild rice and the bay leaf last. This layering ensures the rice and vegetables absorb all the delicious flavors while cooking.

Step 3: Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover your crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6 to 8 hours. The long, gentle cooking allows the wild rice to become tender and the chicken to cook thoroughly, soaking up every bit of those herbal and savory notes. This slow simmer is where the magic of the Creamy Crockpot Chicken Wild Rice Soup really happens.

Step 4: Shred the Chicken and Finish the Soup

Once the chicken reaches 165°F and the rice is tender, remove the chicken breasts from the crockpot and shred them using two forks. Return the shredded chicken back into the crockpot. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, half and half, and whole milk until the flour is fully dissolved. Slowly pour this creamy mixture into the soup and stir well, thickening your broth into that signature creamy texture. If it feels too thick, simply add a little more broth until it reaches the perfect consistency.

How to Serve Creamy Crockpot Chicken Wild Rice Soup

Garnishes

Fresh parsley sprinkled on top adds a pop of vibrant green and a hint of fresh flavor that wakes up each spoonful. For a little extra indulgence, a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper or a dash of paprika can add warmth and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

Serve this soup alongside a big, crusty loaf of bread to soak up every last drop. Garlic bread or a warm baguette rounds out the meal perfectly. A simple mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette is also ideal if you want a fresh contrast to the creamy richness.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun presentation, serve the soup in small bread bowls for individual servings that are as delicious as they are charming. You can also top the soup with crispy bacon bits or a sprinkle of shredded sharp cheddar cheese for an extra layer of flavor and texture.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

The Creamy Crockpot Chicken Wild Rice Soup keeps wonderfully in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container so it maintains its fresh flavor and creamy texture.

Freezing

This soup freezes well, but because of the cream and milk, it’s best to freeze it before adding the dairy mixture. Freeze it in portions with the chicken and vegetables, then thaw completely before finishing by adding the cream and flour mixture to keep the texture smooth.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring frequently to prevent scorching. If the soup has thickened too much in the fridge, stir in a little broth or milk to loosen it up as it warms.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of wild rice?

Absolutely! While wild rice adds a nutty and chewy texture, brown rice will work fine and provide a slightly different but delicious flavor and softer bite.

Is it possible to make this soup in an Instant Pot?

Yes, you can adapt this recipe for your Instant Pot by sautéing the veggies, adding all ingredients except the cream mixture, then pressure cooking for about 25 minutes before shredding the chicken and stirring in the dairy mixture.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Swap the half and half and milk for coconut milk or your favorite plant-based milk, and use a gluten-free flour or cornstarch to thicken the soup without the dairy.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken is perfectly cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and is easy to shred with a fork. Slow cooking on low for 6-8 hours usually guarantees tenderness.

Can I add other vegetables to the soup?

Definitely! Feel free to add mushrooms, peas, or even kale to customize the soup to your liking and add an extra nutrient boost.

Final Thoughts

I genuinely hope you give this Creamy Crockpot Chicken Wild Rice Soup a try—it’s one of those recipes that feels like a secret treasure once you make it. It’s warming, nourishing, and ridiculously simple to throw together, letting your crockpot do the work while you go about your day. Perfect for any time you crave comfort that tastes like it’s been simmering all afternoon in a cozy kitchen.

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