Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
  1. Heat olive oil or butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
  2. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Cook the Wild Rice
  1. Add the rinsed wild rice to the pot and stir to coat it with the aromatics.
  2. Pour in the chicken broth, then add the thyme and bay leaf.
  3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 40–50 minutes, or until the wild rice is tender but still slightly chewy.
Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Base
  1. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk (or cream) and flour until smooth. This mixture will thicken the soup.
  2. Once the wild rice is cooked, slowly pour the milk mixture into the pot, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
Step 4: Add the Chicken
  1. Stir in the shredded chicken and let the soup simmer for an additional 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the soup to thicken.
  2. If the soup becomes too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or milk to reach your desired consistency.
Step 5: Final Seasoning
  1. Remove the bay leaf and taste the soup. Adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed.
  2. For a burst of freshness, stir in some chopped fresh parsley just before serving.

Serving Suggestions:

  1. Ladle the chicken and wild rice soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
  2. Serve hot with crusty bread, biscuits, or crackers on the side to complete the meal.

Tips for Success:

  • Wild Rice Cooking Time: Wild rice takes longer to cook than other types of rice. Be patient, and check occasionally to ensure it doesn’t overcook.
  • Make It Gluten-Free: Replace all-purpose flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
  • Customize Vegetables: Add mushrooms, spinach, or green beans for extra nutrients and flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

Chicken and wild rice soup is the ultimate comfort food, combining wholesome ingredients with a creamy texture that feels indulgent yet healthy. Its rich flavors and satisfying texture make it a family favorite and a great option for meal prep. Whether enjoyed on a cold winter evening or as a light dinner year-round, this soup is sure to warm your heart and your taste buds.

Make it today, and let the aroma fill your kitchen—your family (and your stomach) will thank you!