If you are searching for a comforting and hearty meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, look no further than this Crockpot Chicken Wild Rice Soup. This dish brings together tender chicken, nutty wild rice, and a medley of fresh vegetables simmered to perfection in a creamy broth. It’s incredibly easy to prepare thanks to the slow cooker doing all the heavy lifting, making it a perfect go-to for busy days or cozy weekends. The Crockpot Chicken Wild Rice Soup offers a delightful balance of textures and flavors that will have you coming back for seconds, and maybe even thirds.

Crockpot Chicken Wild Rice Soup Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe relies on simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully to create layers of flavor and texture. Each one plays a vital role, whether it’s bringing freshness, earthiness, or that smooth, creamy finish to the soup.

1 ½ lb chicken breasts: Lean and tender, these are the hearty protein base for the soup.
4 carrots, sliced: Add a subtle sweetness and vibrant color to brighten each spoonful.
3 celery stalks, chopped: Offer a mild crunch and depth with their aromatic, herbaceous qualities.
1 onion, diced: Provides a savory foundation and enhances the overall savoriness.
8-10 cups chicken broth: I recommend low sodium so you can better control the saltiness.
1 cup wild rice (not a boxed mix): Essential for that chewy texture and distinct nutty flavor.
4 garlic cloves: Deliver a warm, aromatic punch that lingers beautifully in the background.
1 bay leaf: Imparts subtle herbal notes to deepen the broth.
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that amplifies the rustic charm of the soup.
1 teaspoon thyme: Provides an earthy, slightly minty flavor that complements the chicken.
1 teaspoon parsley: Adds bright, fresh undertones and a touch of color.
¼ cup flour (gluten-free optional): The secret to thickening the soup into a luscious creaminess.
½ cup half and half: Enriches the broth with a silky texture and mild sweetness.
½ cup whole milk: Softens the soup’s richness to a perfect balance.
½ teaspoon sea salt: Enhances all the natural flavors seamlessly.
½ teaspoon cracked pepper: Adds just enough bite to awaken the palate.

How to Make Crockpot Chicken Wild Rice Soup

Step 1: Prep Your Vegetables and Chicken

Begin by dicing your onion, slicing the carrots, chopping the celery, and mincing the garlic cloves. These fresh veggies form the flavor backbone of your soup and provide lovely texture contrasts. Lay the chicken breasts at the bottom of your slow cooker, then sprinkle over the garlic, Italian seasoning, thyme, parsley, sea salt, and cracked pepper. This layering locks in seasoning right from the start.

Step 2: Add Vegetables and Broth

Next, add your prepared onion, carrot, and celery on top of the chicken. Pour in 8 cups of chicken broth along with the uncooked wild rice and toss in the bay leaf. This combination will slowly meld together creating a rich, aromatic base as it simmers for hours.

Step 3: Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours. This slow cooking method allows the wild rice to soften fully and the chicken to become tender enough to shred easily. Let the flavors marry into a soul-satisfying, comforting pot of goodness.

Step 4: Shred Chicken and Thicken Soup

Once your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, remove it from the slow cooker and shred with two forks. While the chicken rests, whisk together the flour, milk, and half and half until smooth and lump-free. Add the shredded chicken back into the soup, then slowly pour in your creamy mixture. Stir continuously until the soup thickens to a luscious consistency. If the broth feels too thick, add more broth a little at a time until it’s just right.

How to Serve Crockpot Chicken Wild Rice Soup

Garnishes

The finishing touches can turn a simple bowl of soup into a feast for the eyes and palate. Fresh parsley sprinkled on top adds a pop of green and fresh herbal brightness. For those who love a little extra indulgence, a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese works beautifully too.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs wonderfully with a crusty loaf of bread or buttered dinner rolls. The bread is perfect for dipping and soaking up every last bit of the creamy broth. A crisp mixed green salad can bring a refreshing, crunchy counterpoint to the warm, hearty soup.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re serving this soup at a gathering, consider presenting it in individual rustic bread bowls for a charming and cozy appeal. You can also ladle the soup into clear glass bowls to showcase the colorful veggies and enticing wild rice grains. A sprinkle of edible flowers or microgreens can elevate the presentation to something truly special.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Crockpot Chicken Wild Rice Soup keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. As the rice continues to absorb liquid over time, the soup may thicken—just stir in a bit of broth or water when reheating.

Freezing

This soup freezes well but it’s best to freeze before adding the creamy milk and half and half mixture. Freeze in portions for easy defrosting, then stir in your cream mixture when you’re reheating the soup for fresh, velvety texture.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking or scorching. Add extra broth or milk if the soup is too thick after reheating. Microwave works too, but heat in short bursts and stir often.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of wild rice in Crockpot Chicken Wild Rice Soup?

While you can substitute brown rice, keep in mind that wild rice has a unique chewy texture and nutty flavor that’s part of what makes this soup special. Brown rice will cook differently and change the overall feel of the soup.

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

Definitely! You can use the sauté function to brown the chicken and veggies first, then pressure cook everything together for about 25 minutes. Just be sure to adjust the liquid and cooking times accordingly.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, swap out the half and half and whole milk for coconut milk or your favorite plant-based milk alternatives. Using a non-dairy flour blend will help maintain the thick and creamy texture.

What if I want to add more vegetables to Crockpot Chicken Wild Rice Soup?

Feel free to experiment and add diced mushrooms, peas, or even spinach near the end of cooking for extra veggies and color. Just be mindful of cooking times and moisture content.

How can I tell when the chicken is fully cooked in the Crockpot Chicken Wild Rice Soup?

The safest way is to check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F using a meat thermometer. The chicken should also shred easily when done.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Crockpot Chicken Wild Rice Soup enough as a go-to for a hearty, fuss-free meal that feels homemade with every bite. It’s an ideal bowl of comfort that freezes and reheats beautifully, making it a perfect weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleaser for family gatherings. Trust me, once you try this soup, it’s going to become one of your favorite slow cooker recipes to turn to again and again!