Easy Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup Recipes

If you are looking for a deliciously hearty and comforting meal, look no further than this easy Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup. This recipe beautifully combines tender chicken, nutty wild rice, and a rich, creamy broth enhanced by smoked turkey bacon and plant-based cream for a satisfying bowl that warms the soul. Whether it’s a chilly day or you just want something wholesome and cozy, this soup delivers layers of flavor with every spoonful.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ultimate Comfort Food: Creamy and savory, this soup feels like a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for relaxing meals.
• Simple Ingredients: Uses easy-to-find staples that come together quickly without sacrificing taste or quality.
• Nutritious and Filling: Loaded with protein from chicken, fiber from wild rice, and vitamins from fresh vegetables.
• Kid-Friendly Flavor: Mild yet flavorful, making it a great choice for picky eaters and family dinners.
• Customizable Base: Easy to adapt with various herbs, spices, or plant-based creamers to suit your mood.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup uses a simple lineup of wholesome ingredients that each add important layers of flavor and texture. From the smoky depth of smoked turkey bacon to the creamy touch of plant-based cream (plant-based), every ingredient serves a purpose.

• Smoked turkey bacon: Adds a rich, smoky flavor that complements the creamy broth perfectly.
• Chicken breast or thighs: Tender and protein-rich, providing substance and heartiness to the soup.
• Wild rice: Offers a nutty crunch and chewy texture that balances the creaminess.
• Onion and garlic: Aromatics that build a savory foundation for the broth.
• Carrots and celery: Classic soup vegetables that contribute sweetness and crunch.
• Plant-based cream (plant-based): Creates a luscious, velvety texture without overpowering the flavors.
• Chicken broth: The flavorful liquid base that brings everything together with warmth and depth.
• Fresh herbs (thyme, parsley): Brighten up the soup with freshness and fragrance.
• Vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural): Adds umami richness enhancing the savory notes.
• Salt and pepper (natural): Essential seasonings to perfect the taste.

Variations for Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup

One of the best parts about this soup is how easy it is to tweak and personalize. Whether you want it heartier, lighter, or with a different flavor profile, these variations make it simple to put your own spin on this favorite dish.

• Vegetable-Loaded: Add mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for an extra veggie boost and vibrant colors.
• Spicy Twist: Include a pinch of red pepper flakes or smoked paprika for a subtle kick without overpowering the creaminess.
• Dairy-Free Alternative: Use coconut cream (plant-based) or almond cream (plant-based) to keep it entirely plant-based and creamy.
• Grain Swap: Try quinoa or brown rice instead of wild rice for different textures and nutritional perks.
• Herb Focus: Switch up the herbs with rosemary or sage to bring new aroma and flavor notes to the soup.

How to Make Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Smoked Turkey Bacon

Start by cutting the smoked turkey bacon into small pieces and cooking them in a large pot over medium heat until crisp. This step releases smoky flavor that forms the flavorful base of the soup.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables and Aromatics

To the smoked turkey bacon, add finely chopped onions, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened and fragrant, stirring frequently to avoid burning.

Step 3: Add Chicken and Broth

Dice the chicken breast or thighs and toss them into the pot. Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle simmer. This will start cooking the chicken and infuse the broth with savory goodness.

Step 4: Incorporate Wild Rice and Seasonings

Add the wild rice along with vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), salt, and pepper (natural). Cover and simmer until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through, about 40–45 minutes.

Step 5: Finish with Plant-Based Cream and Fresh Herbs

Stir in the plant-based cream (plant-based) to create the signature creamy texture. Sprinkle fresh thyme and parsley over the soup before serving to add brightness and color.

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup

• Pre-cook the rice: Partially cooking the wild rice beforehand can speed up the soup-making process and ensure even texture.
• Use bone-in chicken: If you want extra depth in flavor, swap chicken breasts for bone-in cuts then remove bones before serving.
• Don’t rush simmering: Slow simmering melds flavors beautifully and ensures tender chicken and perfect rice.
• Adjust creaminess: Add more or less plant-based cream (plant-based) based on how rich and thick you prefer the soup.
• Season gradually: Taste as you go with salt and vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural) to avoid over-seasoning.

How to Serve Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup

Garnishes

Top your soup with chopped fresh parsley or thyme to brighten the colors and flavors. A sprinkle of smoked turkey bacon bits adds crunch and smoky bursts that enhance each bite.

Side Dishes

Pair your soup with crusty whole-grain bread or warm garlic breadsticks for dipping. A light side salad with vinaigrette makes a refreshing contrast to the creamy, hearty soup.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the soup in mini bread bowls for a fun, rustic touch at dinner parties. Alternatively, ladle into large mugs for a cozy, on-the-go lunch that keeps you warm all day.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Transfer any extra soup into airtight containers and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Flavors will develop further, making leftovers even tastier.

Freezing

This soup freezes well; cool completely before portioning into freezer-safe bags or containers. Freeze for up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat to prevent the plant-based cream (plant-based) from separating. Stir frequently and add a splash of broth if it becomes too thick.

FAQs

Can I use white rice instead of wild rice?

Yes, white rice can be used as a substitute, though the texture will be softer and less nutty compared to wild rice.

Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply replace the chicken with hearty vegetables or plant-based proteins and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

How long does it take to cook the wild rice in the soup?

Wild rice typically takes about 40 to 45 minutes to cook fully in the soup until tender but slightly chewy.

Can I prepare this soup without the smoked turkey bacon?

Yes, you can omit the smoked turkey bacon for a lighter soup or replace it with smoked turkey slices for a different smoky depth.

What plant-based cream works best for this recipe?

Oat cream (plant-based) or cashew cream (plant-based) both blend smoothly into the soup, enhancing the texture and richness.

Final Thoughts

This easy Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup is a true crowd-pleaser that offers comfort, nutrition, and great flavor in every bite. Perfect for any season, it invites a moment to slow down and savor wholesome ingredients cooked with care. Give it a try and discover your new favorite homemade soup recipe to share with loved ones.

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