Healthy Crockpot Chicken and Wild Rice Soup

Name: Healthy Crockpot Chicken and Wild Rice Soup
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 4 h
Total time: 4 h 20 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup wild rice, rinsed; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 8 cups chicken broth; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried rosemary; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup heavy cream or coconut milk (optional); Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

Enjoy a warm and nourishing bowl of Healthy Crockpot Chicken and Wild Rice Soup, perfect for any day of the week.

Created by

Jenna Rowland

Last updated on 2025-12-28T19:58:07.253Z

This Healthy Crockpot Chicken and Wild Rice Soup is a comforting dish made with wholesome ingredients. The slow-cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it a go-to recipe for busy nights.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich and hearty flavors that warm you from the inside out
Packed with protein and nutrients for a healthy meal
Perfect for meal prep and leftovers

      

A Heartwarming Meal for Any Occasion

Nothing beats the comfort of a warm bowl of soup, especially when it’s packed with wholesome ingredients. This Healthy Crockpot Chicken and Wild Rice Soup is perfect for chilly evenings, busy weeknights, or even leisurely weekend lunches. The combination of tender chicken, nutty wild rice, and a medley of vegetables creates a dish that is not only satisfying but also nourishing.

This soup is incredibly versatile, making it an excellent choice for families with varying tastes. You can easily adjust the ingredients based on what you have on hand or your nutritional preferences. Whether you go for a creamy texture with heavy cream or opt for a lighter coconut milk, this soup can be tailored to suit your needs.

Nutritional Benefits of Wild Rice

Wild rice is often celebrated for its health benefits, making it an ideal base for this hearty soup. Unlike conventional white rice, wild rice is a whole grain that contains higher levels of protein, fiber, and essential nutrients. It also has a unique, earthy flavor that complements the chicken and vegetables beautifully.

Incorporating wild rice into your diet can contribute to better digestion, sustained energy levels, and overall health. It is also rich in antioxidants, which help fight free radicals in the body. This makes your Healthy Crockpot Chicken and Wild Rice Soup not just delicious but also a guilt-free choice that supports your wellness journey.

Perfect for Meal Prep

If you’re looking for a solution to your weekly meal prep challenges, this soup is a fantastic option. It stores well in the refrigerator for several days and can easily be frozen for longer-term storage. Making a big batch on the weekend means you’ll have healthy meals ready to go throughout the week, saving you time and effort during busy days.

Simply reheat a bowl of this soup whenever you need a quick meal, and you’ll enjoy the same rich flavors and nutrients as when it was first made. Plus, the soup often tastes even better the next day, as the flavors continue to meld, making it a great choice for leftovers.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious soup:

Ingredients

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup wild rice, rinsed
1 medium onion, diced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
8 cups chicken broth
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup heavy cream or coconut milk (optional)
Fresh parsley for garnish

Once you have all the ingredients, you are ready to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your soup:

Prepare the Ingredients

In a crockpot, add the rinsed wild rice, diced onion, carrots, celery, and minced garlic. Place the chicken breasts on top of the vegetables.

Add Broth and Seasoning

Pour in the chicken broth and add the thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Stir gently to combine.

Cook the Soup

Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4-6 hours or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.

Shred the Chicken

Once cooked, remove the chicken breasts, shred them with two forks, and return them to the soup. If using, stir in the heavy cream or coconut milk for added richness.

Serve and Garnish

Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley. Enjoy your healthy crockpot chicken and wild rice soup!

Your delicious soup is now ready to be enjoyed. Perfect for a cozy dinner!

Storage Tips

To store any leftover soup, allow it to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing individual portions in freezer-safe containers or bags. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.

If you find that the soup thickens after refrigeration, feel free to add a splash of chicken broth or water when reheating to reach your desired consistency.

Serving Suggestions

This Healthy Crockpot Chicken and Wild Rice Soup pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with crusty whole-grain bread or a fresh garden salad to create a well-rounded meal. You can also add a side of roasted vegetables for an extra nutritional boost.

For those who enjoy a bit of spice, a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can add a delightful kick. Alternatively, a dollop of sour cream or yogurt on top can enhance the creaminess of the soup, making every spoonful even more enjoyable.

Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment with the ingredients in this soup. For added flavor, consider incorporating different herbs such as dill or basil. You can also add other vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to increase the nutrient profile and add more texture to the dish.

For a heartier version, you might try adding beans or lentils, which not only boost protein but also add a lovely creaminess. Adjusting the seasonings to suit your personal taste will make this recipe your own, allowing you to enjoy a new twist each time you make it.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of wild rice?

Yes, but brown rice will require a longer cooking time. Adjust accordingly.

→ How can I make this soup dairy-free?

Substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or omit it entirely.

→ Can I freeze leftover soup?

Yes, this soup freezes well. Just store it in an airtight container.

→ What vegetables can I add to the soup?

Feel free to add spinach, kale, or any vegetables you enjoy!