Healthy Crockpot Chicken and Wild Rice Soup

Name: Healthy Crockpot Chicken and Wild Rice Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups wild rice, rinsed; 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 1 cup frozen peas; 1 tsp dried thyme; 1 tsp dried rosemary; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tbsp olive oil; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

A wholesome and hearty soup that's perfect for chilly days, packed with nutrients and flavor.

Created by

Jenna Rowland

Last updated on 2025-12-28T19:52:11.654Z

This Healthy Crockpot Chicken and Wild Rice Soup is a delightful blend of tender chicken, earthy wild rice, and fresh vegetables. It’s the perfect meal for busy weeknights, letting your slow cooker do all the work while you enjoy the comforting aroma filling your kitchen.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Nutrient-rich ingredients for a healthy meal
The convenience of a slow cooker makes it easy to prepare
Rich flavors that develop over hours of cooking

      

The Benefits of Wild Rice

Wild rice is not just a delicious grain; it's also packed with nutrients. Unlike white rice, wild rice is a whole grain that retains its bran and germ, which means it’s high in fiber, protein, and essential vitamins. This makes it a great choice for anyone looking to boost their dietary intake of whole foods. Additionally, wild rice has a unique nutty flavor and chewy texture that adds depth to soups, making it a perfect addition to this crockpot dish.

Beyond its nutritional profile, wild rice is known for its antioxidant properties. These antioxidants help reduce inflammation and combat oxidative stress in the body. Incorporating wild rice into your meals, especially in a comforting soup like this one, can contribute to better overall health while satisfying your cravings for something hearty and warming.

Slow Cooking for Flavor

Using a slow cooker to prepare this chicken and wild rice soup allows the flavors to meld beautifully. As the ingredients simmer over several hours, the chicken becomes tender and infuses the broth with rich flavors. The slow cooking process not only enhances the taste but also makes the soup incredibly easy to prepare. Just set it and forget it, allowing you to focus on other tasks while your meal cooks to perfection.

Moreover, slow cooking retains more nutrients compared to other cooking methods. Since the food is cooked at low temperatures over a longer period, vitamins and minerals are less likely to be lost. This makes your healthy chicken and wild rice soup not just tasty but also a nourishing option for your family, perfect for those chilly days when comfort food is needed.

Customizing Your Soup

One of the best aspects of this healthy crockpot chicken and wild rice soup is its versatility. Feel free to customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. You can swap out the chicken for turkey or add in other vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms. This not only enhances the nutritional content but also adds different textures and flavors to the soup.

Additionally, if you prefer a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream just before serving. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can elevate the flavor profile. The possibilities are endless, making this soup a great base recipe that can be adapted to suit any taste.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for a delicious soup:

Ingredients

2 cups wild rice, rinsed
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 medium onion, diced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 cup frozen peas
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried rosemary
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil
Fresh parsley for garnish

Ensure all ingredients are prepped before cooking for the best results.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious soup:

Prep the Ingredients

Start by dicing the onion, carrots, and celery. Mince the garlic and rinse the wild rice thoroughly.

Combine Ingredients in the Crockpot

Place the chicken breasts, diced vegetables, garlic, wild rice, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper in the crockpot. Pour in the chicken broth and stir gently.

Cook the Soup

Set the crockpot to low and cook for 6 hours or until the chicken is fully cooked and the rice is tender.

Shred the Chicken

Once cooked, remove the chicken breasts, shred them with a fork, and return them to the soup. Stir in the frozen peas and let them heat through for about 10 minutes.

Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your healthy crockpot chicken and wild rice soup!

Let the soup cool slightly before serving for the best flavor.

Storage Tips

This healthy crockpot chicken and wild rice soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, making it a fantastic option for meal prep. To store, simply let the soup cool down to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. When you're ready to enjoy, just reheat on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.

If you want to keep it for longer, consider freezing portions of the soup. Place it in freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, and it can last for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as desired. Just be aware that the texture of the wild rice may change slightly after freezing, but the flavor will still be delicious!

Serving Suggestions

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. Consider serving it with a slice of multigrain bread for a wholesome touch or a fresh garden salad topped with a light vinaigrette to balance the flavors. The hearty nature of the soup means it can stand alone, but a side dish will elevate the dining experience.

For a fun twist, you can also serve the soup in bread bowls. Simply hollow out a round loaf of bread, fill it with the soup, and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and textures. This not only makes for an impressive presentation but also adds to the overall comfort food experience.

Health Benefits

This healthy chicken and wild rice soup is not only delicious but also packed with health benefits. The combination of lean chicken, fiber-rich wild rice, and nutrient-dense vegetables creates a balanced meal that supports overall health. The high protein content from the chicken helps in muscle repair and growth, while the wild rice provides sustained energy.

Moreover, the inclusion of garlic and herbs like thyme and rosemary not only enhances the flavor but also offers anti-inflammatory properties. Garlic is known for its immune-boosting benefits, making this soup an excellent choice during cold and flu season. Enjoying a bowl of this comforting soup can be both a treat for your taste buds and a step towards better health.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of wild rice?

Yes, but note that brown rice will require a longer cooking time, about 8-9 hours on low.

→ Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free chicken broth.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

→ Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, you can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.