Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Slow Cooker Chicken Wild Rice Soup is a hearty and comforting dish perfect for chilly days. With tender chicken, wholesome vegetables, earthy wild rice, and a creamy broth, this soup simmers to perfection in your slow cooker with minimal effort. It’s a satisfying one-pot meal that’s ideal for family dinners or meal prepping.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

chicken breasts or thighswild rice (uncooked)carrotsceleryoniongarlicchicken broththymeparsleybay leafsaltpepperbutterall-purpose flourmilk or heavy cream

directions

Place the chicken, wild rice, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, broth, thyme, parsley, bay leaf, salt, and pepper into the slow cooker.

Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the chicken is tender and the rice is fully cooked.

Remove the chicken from the slow cooker, shred it with two forks, and return it to the pot.

In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to make a roux and cook for 1-2 minutes.

Gradually whisk in the milk or cream and cook until thickened.

Stir the cream mixture into the slow cooker and mix until well combined.

Continue to cook on low for an additional 15-20 minutes, allowing the soup to thicken.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.Preparation time: 15 minutesSlow cook time: 7-8 hours (low) or 4-5 hours (high)Additional thickening time: 20 minutesTotal time: 8 hours 15 minutes (low) or 5 hours 35 minutes (high)

Variations

Use rotisserie chicken and cooked rice to speed up the process.

Add mushrooms or spinach for extra texture and nutrients.

Swap cream for coconut milk for a dairy-free version.

Include a squeeze of lemon juice before serving for brightness.

storage/reheating

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through.Add a splash of broth or water if the soup thickens too much during storage.Suitable for freezing—store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use brown or white rice instead of wild rice?

Yes, but wild rice holds up better in long cooking and adds more texture and flavor.

Can I skip the cream?

Yes, the soup will be broth-based but still delicious. You can also use a non-dairy alternative.

Do I need to sauté the vegetables first?

Not necessary—everything cooks together in the slow cooker for convenience.

Can I make this soup on the stovetop?

Yes, simmer all ingredients until chicken and rice are tender, then add the cream mixture at the end.

Is it gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free flour for the roux or thicken with cornstarch instead.

Can I use frozen chicken?

It’s best to thaw it first for food safety and even cooking.

How can I make it more flavorful?

Add more herbs, a splash of white wine, or finish with fresh herbs before serving.

Why is my rice mushy?

Wild rice holds up best, but if using other types, consider adding them halfway through cooking.

Can I use chicken thighs?

Yes, they add more flavor and stay juicy during slow cooking.

What’s the best way to shred the chicken?

Use two forks or a hand mixer on low for quick shredding.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Chicken Wild Rice Soup is a rich and wholesome meal that delivers big on flavor with minimal effort. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends, it’s a recipe you’ll turn to again and again. Creamy, savory, and full of comforting goodness, it’s sure to warm you from the inside out.