When the weather turns chilly and you’re craving a warm and comforting meal, there’s nothing quite like a bowl of Crockpot Chicken Wild Rice Soup. This recipe is not only delicious, but it’s also incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients and a little bit of time, you can have a flavorful and satisfying meal that will warm you from the inside out.
Preparing this soup is a breeze, starting with chopping all the fresh vegetables. You can choose to chop them by hand, but if you want to save some time, using a food processor can make the task even easier. Once the vegetables are ready, it’s time to sauté them in a large pot with a tablespoon of olive oil. The combination of celery, onion, and garlic creates a fragrant base that will infuse the soup with a rich and savory flavor.
After the vegetables have softened and become fragrant, it’s time to transfer them to your trusty crockpot. Add sliced carrots and a blend of dried herbs, including parsley and thyme, to enhance the taste and aroma of the soup. Don’t forget to toss in a few bay leaves for that extra touch of earthiness.
Now, it’s time for the star of the show – the chicken. Choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe. Place them on top of the vegetable mixture in the crockpot, and then cover everything with low or no salt chicken broth. The broth will create a flavorful base for the soup, infusing the chicken and vegetables with its savory goodness.
Once everything is in the crockpot, it’s time to let it work its magic. Set the crockpot to low and let the soup simmer for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. The longer cooking time on low heat allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a more robust and delicious soup.
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to enjoy your soup, remove the bay leaves from the broth and discard them. Take out the chicken breasts and shred them on a cutting board using forks or a mixer. While the chicken is being shredded, cook the wild rice separately according to the instructions on the package. This step ensures that the rice is perfectly cooked and retains its texture.
Once the rice is cooked and the chicken is shredded, it’s time to bring everything together. Add the shredded chicken back into the crockpot and then stir in the cooked wild rice. The combination of tender chicken, hearty wild rice, and flavorful broth creates a soup that is not only satisfying but also packed with wholesome goodness.
Now that your Crockpot Chicken Wild Rice Soup is ready, it’s time to sit back, relax, and savor each spoonful. The warm and comforting flavors will envelop your taste buds, making every bite a delight. Whether you’re enjoying it on a cozy evening at home or sharing it with loved ones at a gathering, this soup is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
