Get ready to warm up your soul with a comforting bowl of Crockpot Chicken Wild Rice Soup. This hearty and flavorful dish is perfect for chilly evenings or lazy weekends when you crave something wholesome and satisfying. With simple ingredients and the convenience of a slow cooker, you can effortlessly create a homemade soup that will impress even the pickiest of eaters. Let’s dive into this recipe and explore all its delicious possibilities.
Ingredients
- 1 cup uncooked wild rice
- 1 pound chicken breasts
- 2 cups mirepoix (chopped celery, carrots, and onions)
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
- 1/2 cup butter
- 3/4 cup flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- A few tablespoons white wine (optional)
- Up to 2 cups additional milk or water
Instructions
Preparing the Ingredients
- Rinse the wild rice under cold water and drain.
- Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of your crockpot.
- Add the chopped mirepoix and rinsed wild rice on top of the chicken.
- Pour the chicken broth over the ingredients in the crockpot.
- Sprinkle the poultry seasoning over the mixture.
Cooking in the Crockpot
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.
Making the Roux
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Stir in the flour to form a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes until golden brown.
- Gradually whisk in the whole milk until smooth and thickened, then add the white wine if using.
Finishing the Soup
- Shred the cooked chicken using two forks and return it to the crockpot.
- Pour the roux mixture into the crockpot and stir well to combine.
- If the soup is too thick, add additional milk or water until you reach your desired consistency.
Serving
- Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cook Notes and Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version of this soup. Add extra vegetables such as mushrooms or bell peppers for added flavor and texture.
- Creamy Variation: For an extra creamy soup, stir in a cup of heavy cream or half-and-half along with the roux mixture.
- Herbaceous Twist: Enhance the flavor of the soup by adding fresh herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or sage during the cooking process.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions
Keto Version
- Substitute cauliflower rice for the wild rice to reduce the carb content.
- Use heavy cream or coconut milk in place of whole milk for a higher fat content.
- Omit the white wine or use a dry white wine with low residual sugar.
Low-Carb Version
- Use cauliflower rice instead of wild rice to significantly reduce the carb count.
- Replace the flour in the roux with a low-carb thickener such as xanthan gum or almond flour.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts? A: Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used instead of chicken breasts for a richer flavor. Simply adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Q: Can I freeze this soup? A: Yes, this soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Q: Can I add other vegetables to this soup? A: Absolutely! Feel free to customize this soup with your favorite vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, or peas. Just add them to the crockpot along with the other ingredients.
Q: Can I make this soup dairy-free? A: Yes, you can make this soup dairy-free by using a dairy-free butter substitute and unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk in place of the whole milk.
Crockpot Chicken Wild Rice Soup is the epitome of comfort in a bowl. With its rich flavors, tender chicken, and hearty wild rice, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you’re craving a cozy meal on a cold winter’s day or looking for an easy weeknight dinner option, this soup has got you covered. So dust off your crockpot, gather your ingredients, and let the slow cooker work its magic. A steaming bowl of homemade goodness awaits you!
Indulge in the warmth and nourishment of this soul-soothing soup. From its aromatic broth to its wholesome ingredients, every spoonful is a reminder of the simple joys of home cooking. Cheers to good food, good company, and the comfort of a well-made meal.
