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: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast, boneless and skinless; 1 cup wild rice, rinsed; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 cup carrots, diced; 1 cup celery, diced; 1 onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp dried thyme; 1 tsp dried rosemary; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup kale or spinach, chopped (optional); 1 cup heavy cream or coconut milk (optional for creaminess)

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

Healthy Crockpot Chicken and Wild Rice Soup is a nutritious and comforting dish that brings warmth to any table. Perfect for busy days, this recipe allows you to enjoy a homemade meal with minimal effort.

Created by

Marley Quinn

Last updated on 2025-12-28T18:28:12.657Z

This Healthy Crockpot Chicken and Wild Rice Soup is not only simple to make but also packed with flavor and nutrients. The combination of tender chicken, hearty wild rice, and fresh vegetables creates a satisfying and wholesome meal that everyone will love.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich in vitamins and minerals from fresh vegetables
Comforting and hearty, perfect for chilly days
Easy to prepare with just a few simple ingredients

      

Nutritional Benefits

Healthy Crockpot Chicken and Wild Rice Soup is not just delicious; it's also packed with nutritional benefits. With ingredients like chicken breast, kale, and a mix of fresh vegetables, this soup provides a wealth of vitamins and minerals. Chicken breast is a great source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth. Meanwhile, the wild rice adds fiber and essential nutrients like magnesium and phosphorus, promoting overall health.

Incorporating leafy greens like kale or spinach boosts the soup's nutritional profile even further. These greens are rich in antioxidants, vitamins A, C, and K, and provide an array of health benefits, including improved digestion and enhanced immune function. This soup is an excellent choice for anyone looking to maintain a balanced diet while enjoying a comforting meal.

Perfect for Meal Prep

One of the best features of Healthy Crockpot Chicken and Wild Rice Soup is its convenience, making it a fantastic option for meal prep. You can easily prepare a large batch at the beginning of the week and store individual portions in the refrigerator or freezer. This makes it easy to have a nutritious meal on hand for busy days when time is limited.

Simply reheat the soup on the stovetop or in the microwave for a quick and satisfying lunch or dinner. The flavors will continue to develop as it sits, making it even more delicious the next day. Whether you're juggling work, family, or other commitments, this soup can be a reliable go-to for wholesome nutrition.

Versatile and Customizable

Another great aspect of this soup is its versatility. While the recipe provides a solid foundation, feel free to customize it based on your preferences or dietary needs. You can substitute the chicken with turkey or even a plant-based protein for a vegetarian version. Adding different vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini can also enhance the flavor and texture.

Additionally, you can adjust the seasonings to suit your taste. If you prefer a bit of heat, consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. The options are endless, ensuring that your Healthy Crockpot Chicken and Wild Rice Soup can be tailored to fit any palate.

Ingredients

For the Soup

1 lb chicken breast, boneless and skinless
1 cup wild rice, rinsed
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup carrots, diced
1 cup celery, diced
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried rosemary
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup kale or spinach, chopped (optional)
1 cup heavy cream or coconut milk (optional for creaminess)

Mix all the ingredients for a wholesome meal!

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

In a large crockpot, add the chicken breast, wild rice, chicken broth, diced carrots, celery, chopped onion, minced garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.

Cook the Soup

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

Shred the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the crockpot, shred it using two forks, and return it to the pot. Stir in the chopped kale or spinach if using.

Add Creaminess (Optional)

If you desire a creamier soup, stir in the heavy cream or coconut milk just before serving.

Serve hot and enjoy your delicious soup!

Serving Suggestions

Healthy Crockpot Chicken and Wild Rice Soup is hearty enough to stand on its own, but pairing it with some delicious sides can elevate your meal. Consider serving it with a slice of crusty whole-grain bread or a light green salad to add freshness and crunch. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro can also enhance the presentation and flavor.

If you’re looking for a lighter option, a side of steamed vegetables or a simple fruit salad can complement the richness of the soup without overwhelming your palate. These pairings not only add variety to your meal but also boost the overall nutritional value.

Storage Tips

To store leftover Healthy Crockpot Chicken and Wild Rice Soup, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for up to three months. When freezing, consider portioning the soup into smaller containers for easy reheating later on.

When reheating frozen soup, it's best to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before warming it up on the stovetop or in the microwave. This ensures even heating and maintains the soup's texture. Always check the seasoning after reheating, as flavors may intensify during storage.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of wild rice?

Yes, but the cooking time may vary. Brown rice typically takes longer to cook.

→ Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as it contains no wheat ingredients.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Absolutely! This soup freezes well. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.

→ How can I make this soup vegetarian?

Replace the chicken with a mix of beans or lentils and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.