Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
  1. Heat olive oil or butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
  2. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté for 5–7 minutes until softened and fragrant.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Step 2: Add Chicken and Wild Rice
  1. Place the chicken breasts or thighs into the pot with the vegetables.
  2. Add the rinsed wild rice to the pot.
Step 3: Pour in the Broth and Add Seasonings
  1. Pour in chicken broth, ensuring the chicken and rice are fully submerged.
  2. Stir in the dried thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf.
  3. Season with a pinch of salt and black pepper.
Step 4: Simmer the Soup
  1. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low.
  2. Cover the pot with a lid and let the soup simmer for 35–45 minutes, or until the wild rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
    • Stir occasionally to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
Step 5: Shred the Chicken
  1. Remove the chicken from the pot and place it on a cutting board.
  2. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
  3. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.
Step 6: Thicken the Soup
  1. In a small bowl, whisk together heavy cream and flour until smooth.
  2. Gradually stir the cream mixture into the soup, ensuring it’s evenly incorporated.
  3. Let the soup simmer for an additional 5–10 minutes to thicken slightly.
Step 7: Taste and Adjust
  1. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
  2. Remove the bay leaf before serving.

Serving Suggestions

  • Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
  • Serve with crusty bread, warm rolls, or crackers for a complete meal.
  • Pair with a simple green salad for added freshness and balance.

Tips for Success

  1. Wild Rice: Use 100% wild rice for the best texture and flavor. Wild rice blends can be substituted, but they may cook faster.
  2. Chicken Options: Rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken can be used to save time. Simply shred and add it during the final simmer.
  3. Dairy-Free Option: Replace heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based alternative.
  4. Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or kale for extra nutrition.
  5. Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Wild rice absorbs liquid over time, so add a splash of broth or water when reheating.