Chicken wild rice soup is a classic comfort food that is perfect for chilly days or when you just need a warm and hearty meal. This soup is not only delicious and satisfying, but it is also incredibly easy to make in a crock pot. With the convenience of a slow cooker, you can simply set it and forget it, allowing the flavors to meld together and create a rich and flavorful soup that the whole family will love.
There are many variations of chicken wild rice soup, but today we will be sharing with you the best chicken wild rice soup recipe for the crock pot. We will provide you with two versions of the recipe, each with their own unique twist to cater to different taste preferences. So without further ado, let’s dive into the world of chicken wild rice soup!
Version 1: Creamy Chicken Wild Rice Soup
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup wild rice blend
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 3 celery stalks, sliced
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 6 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Place the chicken breasts, wild rice blend, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, chicken broth, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper in a crock pot. 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.
2. Remove the chicken breasts from the crock pot and shred them using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the crock pot.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the heavy cream and flour until smooth. Stir the mixture into the soup in the crock pot.
4. Cover and cook on high for an additional 30 minutes, until the soup has thickened slightly.
5. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Version 2: Spicy Chicken Wild Rice Soup
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1 cup wild rice blend
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 jalapenos, seeded and diced
– 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 3 celery stalks, sliced
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 6 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup salsa
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Place the chicken thighs, wild rice blend, onion, jalapenos, carrots, celery, garlic, chicken broth, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper in a crock pot. 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.
2. Remove the chicken thighs from the crock pot and shred them using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the crock pot.
3. Stir in the salsa and cook on high for an additional 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
4. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Now that you have two delicious chicken wild rice soup recipes to try in your crock pot, let’s take a look at some interesting trends related to this classic dish.
Trend 1: Healthier Ingredients
One trend in the world of chicken wild rice soup is the use of healthier ingredients. Many people are opting for organic chicken, whole grain wild rice, and fresh vegetables to make their soup more nutritious and wholesome. By using high-quality ingredients, you can elevate the flavors of the soup and make it even more satisfying.
Trend 2: Customization
Another trend is the customization of chicken wild rice soup to suit different preferences. Some people like to add in extra vegetables like mushrooms or spinach, while others prefer to spice things up with hot sauce or salsa. The beauty of this soup is that you can tailor it to your liking and make it truly your own.
Trend 3: Ethnic Flavors
Ethnic flavors are also becoming popular in chicken wild rice soup recipes. From Thai-inspired coconut curry to Mexican-inspired salsa and spices, there are endless possibilities to infuse international flavors into this classic dish. By experimenting with different seasonings and ingredients, you can create a unique and delicious soup that will transport your taste buds around the world.
Trend 4: Meal Prep
Meal prep is another trend that is gaining popularity, especially among busy individuals who want to have healthy and convenient meals ready to go. Chicken wild rice soup is a perfect candidate for meal prep, as it can be easily portioned out and stored in the fridge or freezer for quick and easy lunches or dinners throughout the week. Simply reheat and enjoy a comforting bowl of soup whenever you need a nourishing meal.
Now, let’s hear from some professionals in the culinary world about their thoughts on chicken wild rice soup:
“Chicken wild rice soup is a timeless classic that never fails to warm the soul. The combination of tender chicken, hearty rice, and flavorful broth is simply unbeatable. It’s a dish that I always turn to when I need a comforting meal that reminds me of home.” – Chef
“I love the versatility of chicken wild rice soup. You can play around with different ingredients and seasonings to create a soup that suits your taste preferences. Whether you like it creamy and mild or spicy and bold, there’s a version of this soup for everyone.” – Nutritionist
“Chicken wild rice soup is not only delicious, but it’s also a nutritious and filling meal. With lean protein from the chicken, fiber from the rice and vegetables, and plenty of vitamins and minerals, this soup is a well-rounded dish that can nourish the body and satisfy the taste buds.” – Dietitian
Now, let’s address some common concerns and questions related to chicken wild rice soup:
1. Can I use bone-in chicken for this soup?
Yes, you can definitely use bone-in chicken for added flavor. Just be sure to remove the bones before serving.
2. Can I use white rice instead of wild rice?
While wild rice is traditional in this soup, you can substitute white rice if that’s what you have on hand. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
3. How can I make this soup vegetarian?
You can easily make this soup vegetarian by omitting the chicken and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add in extra vegetables or tofu for protein.
4. Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, you can freeze this soup for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
5. How long will this soup last in the fridge?
This soup will last for 3-4 days in the fridge when stored in an airtight container.
6. Can I add dairy to this soup?
Yes, you can add dairy like heavy cream or milk to make the soup creamy. Just be sure to stir it in at the end of cooking.
7. How can I make this soup gluten-free?
To make this soup gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour or cornstarch to thicken the soup instead of all-purpose flour.
8. Can I add more spices to this soup?
Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your taste preferences and add in extra spices like paprika, cayenne pepper, or curry powder.
9. Can I use a different type of meat in this soup?
Yes, you can use turkey, pork, or even beef in place of chicken for a different flavor profile.
10. How can I make this soup lower in fat?
To make this soup lower in fat, use low-fat dairy or skip the dairy altogether. You can also trim any excess fat from the chicken before cooking.
11. Can I make this soup on the stovetop instead of a crock pot?
Yes, you can easily make this soup on the stovetop by simmering it for about 45 minutes to an hour until the rice is cooked through.
12. Can I add beans to this soup?
Sure! Beans like cannellini beans or black beans would be a great addition to this soup for extra protein and fiber.
In summary, chicken wild rice soup is a classic dish that is beloved by many for its comforting and satisfying qualities. Whether you prefer a creamy version or a spicy twist, there are endless possibilities to customize this soup to suit your taste preferences. With the convenience of a crock pot, you can easily whip up a batch of this delicious soup and enjoy it throughout the week. So grab your ingredients and get cooking, because a warm and hearty bowl of chicken wild rice soup awaits you!