If you’re craving a meal that wraps you in comfort with every spoonful, nothing quite hits the spot like this Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup Recipe. It’s the perfect cozy bowl brimming with tender chicken, hearty wild rice, and a luscious creamy broth that just melts in your mouth. Whether it’s a chilly evening or you simply want a nourishing dinner that feels homemade and special, this soup delivers warmth, flavor, and satisfaction all in one pot.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple ingredients come together beautifully in this recipe, each playing a star role in creating that rich taste and wonderfully satisfying texture. Fresh veggies boost the flavor and color, while herbs and dairy bring depth and creaminess that make every bite unforgettable.
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The lean, tender protein base that soaks up all the flavor as it cooks.
- 1 cup uncooked wild rice blend (rinsed): Adds a nutty flavor and hearty texture to make the soup filling and satisfying.
- 1 medium onion (diced): Provides a sweet and savory undertone that deepens the soup’s flavor.
- 3 carrots (peeled and sliced): Give sweetness and vibrant color, balancing richness with natural freshness.
- 3 celery stalks (sliced): Adds a subtle crunch and herby freshness to the mix.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses warmth and aromatic depth, awakening your taste buds.
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth: The savory liquid foundation that carries all those incredible flavors together.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Offers a slightly earthy, lemony note perfect for chicken dishes.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary: Adds a fragrant pine-like touch enhancing the overall aroma.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Just enough bite to brighten every spoonful.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances the natural flavors perfectly without overwhelming.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter: Creates richness essential for making the soup creamy and indulgent.
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: The magic ingredient to thicken the broth into a velvety base.
- 2 cups whole milk: Adds smooth creaminess and balances the roux for perfect texture.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: For that luxurious finish that makes your Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup Recipe feel like a special treat.
How to Make Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup Recipe
Step 1: Combine Base Ingredients in the Slow Cooker
Start by tossing your chicken breasts, wild rice, diced onion, sliced carrots and celery, minced garlic, chicken broth, thyme, rosemary, salt, and black pepper into the slow cooker. This mix is the heart of your soup, where all those fresh, simple ingredients will slowly mingle and develop deep flavor. Pop the lid on and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours or high for 3 to 4 hours — patience here truly pays off with tender chicken and perfectly cooked rice.
Step 2: Shred the Chicken
Once the cooking is done, carefully remove the chicken breasts from the slow cooker. Using two forks, shred the meat into bite-sized pieces, then stir it back into the pot. This step turns your chicken into little pockets of juicy, flavorful goodness that mix beautifully into the soup’s creamy base.
Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Roux
While the chicken is shredding, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 to 2 minutes, stirring constantly to make a golden, fragrant roux. This step is crucial as the roux thickens your soup, giving it that luscious, creamy consistency we all adore.
Step 4: Add Dairy and Finish the Soup
Slowly pour in the milk while whisking to avoid lumps, letting the mixture thicken over 3 to 4 minutes. Stir in the heavy cream for an extra touch of richness, then pour this creamy blend into the slow cooker. Give everything a good stir and allow it to heat through on low for 10 to 15 minutes. This final step melds the flavors together and ensures your Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup Recipe is perfectly smooth and comforting.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Sometimes, it’s the little touches that make a meal feel even more special. For this soup, try sprinkling freshly chopped parsley or chives on top for a burst of freshness and bright color. A generous grind of black pepper or a few crumbles of crispy bacon can also elevate the flavor and add delicate texture contrasts that keep your spoon busy.
Side Dishes
Pairing your soup with the right sides makes the meal even more satisfying. Crusty bread or warm dinner rolls are perfect for dipping into that creamy broth. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can complement the richness with brightness, balancing the whole plate beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a show-stopping presentation, ladle the soup into hollowed-out mini pumpkins or bowls lined with toasted sourdough. You can also serve it in rustic mugs for a casual, cozy vibe that’s perfect for relaxing evenings or a comforting lunch with friends.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying this delicious soup, you’ll appreciate how well it keeps. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to develop, making it even tastier the next day.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, this soup freezes beautifully. Transfer the cooled soup into airtight containers or freezer bags, leaving room for expansion. It will keep for up to 2 months without losing its creamy goodness, making it a perfect make-ahead meal for busy days.
Reheating
Gently reheat your soup on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally to keep the creamy texture smooth. If the soup thickens too much during storage, simply add a splash of milk or broth as you warm it up to loosen it back to that perfect consistency.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of raw chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut that can cut down the overall cooking time. Add the cooked chicken to the slow cooker later in the process to avoid overcooking.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
You can substitute the butter for a dairy-free alternative and use unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk instead of whole milk and heavy cream. The soup won’t be as rich, but it will still be deliciously comforting.
Can I make this soup in an Instant Pot?
Yes! Use the sauté function to prepare the roux and combine all ingredients in the pot, then cook on high pressure for about 25 minutes. Release the pressure naturally for best results.
What can I substitute for wild rice blend?
If wild rice isn’t available, you can use brown rice, jasmine rice, or even quinoa. Keep in mind the cooking times might vary slightly, so adjust accordingly to ensure the grains remain tender.
How do I make this recipe gluten-free?
Simply swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to thicken the soup. Make sure your broth is gluten-free as well to keep the dish safe for celiac or gluten-sensitive individuals.
Final Thoughts
This Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup Recipe is truly one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. It’s easy, hearty, and wonderfully creamy without being heavy, making it an all-time favorite for family dinners or when you want to treat yourself to something special. Give it a try — your slow cooker will do all the magic, leaving you with a soul-satisfying meal that’s perfect any day of the week.
Print
Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 to 7 hours on low or 3 to 4 hours on high
- Total Time: 7 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup is a hearty and comforting meal perfect for chilly days. Tender chicken breasts, wild rice, and fresh vegetables simmer together in fragrant herbs and rich chicken broth. A luscious creamy roux made with butter, flour, whole milk, and heavy cream is stirred in at the end, adding velvety texture and warmth to each bowl. Made in a slow cooker with minimal prep, this soup allows flavors to meld beautifully over several hours, delivering a satisfying and nourishing experience without fuss.
Ingredients
Soup Base
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup uncooked wild rice blend (rinsed)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 3 celery stalks, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
Roux and Cream Mixture
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker: Place the chicken breasts, rinsed wild rice, diced onion, sliced carrots, sliced celery, minced garlic, chicken broth, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and black pepper into the slow cooker. Cover and set to cook.
- Cook on Low or High: Cook on low heat for 6 to 7 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and the rice is tender and fluffy.
- Shred the Chicken: Carefully remove the cooked chicken breasts from the slow cooker, shred them with two forks, and then return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker to mix with the soup.
- Prepare the Roux: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring constantly, to form a paste (roux) that will thicken the soup.
- Add Milk to Thicken: Slowly whisk in the whole milk, continuing to cook and stir until the mixture thickens, which typically takes about 3 to 4 minutes.
- Incorporate Heavy Cream: Stir in the heavy cream into the thickened milk mixture, blending well to create a smooth, creamy sauce.
- Combine Roux with Soup: Pour the creamy roux mixture into the slow cooker. Stir well to evenly incorporate the creaminess throughout the soup.
- Final Heating: Heat the combined soup for an additional 10 to 15 minutes on the low setting to ensure everything is warmed through and the flavors meld.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve warm for a comforting and delicious meal.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken to reduce cook time by skipping the slow cooking of chicken breasts.
- For a lighter option, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream.
- Leftovers can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
- To make this recipe gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour blend for the roux.
