Healthy Crockpot Chicken and Wild Rice Soup

Name: Healthy Crockpot Chicken and Wild Rice Soup
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 20 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup wild rice, rinsed; 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 1 cup carrots, diced; 1 cup celery, diced; 1 cup onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried rosemary; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup spinach or kale, chopped; 1 tablespoon olive oil

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

Healthy Crockpot Chicken and Wild Rice Soup is a hearty and nourishing dish perfect for any time of year. This easy-to-make soup is packed with flavor and nutrition, making it a family favorite.

Created by

Marley Quinn

Last updated on 2025-12-28T18:46:09.758Z

This Healthy Crockpot Chicken and Wild Rice Soup is not only delicious but also a great way to sneak in some veggies. Perfect for chilly evenings, this soup simmers to perfection, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Hearty and filling with tender chicken and nutritious wild rice
Packed with vegetables for a healthy boost
Perfect for meal prep or a cozy family dinner

      

The Benefits of Wild Rice

Wild rice is not only a delicious addition to this soup but also a nutritional powerhouse. Unlike traditional white rice, wild rice is a whole grain that is high in fiber, protein, and essential nutrients. This makes it a fantastic choice for those looking to maintain a healthy diet or manage their weight. Including wild rice in your meals can enhance satiety, helping you feel fuller for longer.

Moreover, wild rice is rich in antioxidants, which help combat oxidative stress and inflammation in the body. This makes it an excellent choice for boosting overall health and wellness. By incorporating wild rice into this soup, you're not just adding texture and flavor but also a significant health benefit.

A Versatile Meal for Any Occasion

One of the best aspects of this Healthy Crockpot Chicken and Wild Rice Soup is its versatility. Whether you're planning a cozy family dinner, preparing meals for the week, or need a quick dish for unexpected guests, this recipe fits the bill perfectly. It's easy to double the ingredients for larger gatherings or to ensure you have leftovers for busy weekdays.

Additionally, the ingredients can be customized to your preference. Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust the spices to cater to your family's taste. This adaptability makes it not just a recipe, but a canvas for your culinary creativity.

Perfect for Meal Prep

This soup is an excellent option for meal prepping. It stores well in the refrigerator for several days and can also be frozen for longer storage. Simply divide the soup into individual portions after cooking and let it cool before transferring to airtight containers. This way, you can have a healthy, homemade meal ready to go whenever you need it.

Reheating is a breeze as well. Just warm it up on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. This makes it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or for anyone looking to eat healthier without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

Soup Ingredients

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup wild rice, rinsed
4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 cup carrots, diced
1 cup celery, diced
1 cup onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup spinach or kale, chopped
1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

Start by dicing the carrots, celery, and onion. Mince the garlic and rinse the wild rice under cold water.

Combine Ingredients in the Crockpot

In the crockpot, add the chicken breasts, wild rice, chicken broth, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.

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

Once cooked, remove the chicken breasts and shred them with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot.

Add Greens

Stir in the chopped spinach or kale and let it cook for an additional 10 minutes until wilted.

Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips for Success

To ensure your soup turns out perfectly every time, make sure to rinse the wild rice thoroughly before adding it to the crockpot. This removes any excess starch and impurities, resulting in a cleaner, better-tasting soup. Additionally, consider using a variety of fresh vegetables for added flavor and nutrition. Bell peppers, zucchini, or even sweet corn can be excellent additions.

Another tip is to adjust the seasonings to suit your taste. If you prefer a bit of heat, adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can elevate the flavors. Taste the soup before serving and make any necessary adjustments to the seasoning for the best results.

Storage and Reheating

When storing your Healthy Crockpot Chicken and Wild Rice Soup, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the soup for up to three months. Just remember to leave some space in the container, as the soup will expand as it freezes.

When you're ready to enjoy your frozen soup, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. If the soup appears too thick after freezing, you can add a splash of chicken broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of wild rice?

Yes, but adjust the cooking time as brown rice may take longer to cook.

→ Can I make this soup in advance?

Absolutely! This soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Is it possible to freeze the soup?

Yes, this soup freezes well. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring to airtight containers.

→ What can I add to make it creamier?

You can stir in some heavy cream or Greek yogurt just before serving for a creamier texture.