Healthy Crockpot Chicken and Wild Rice Soup

Name: Healthy Crockpot Chicken and Wild Rice Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 4 h
Total time: 4 h 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup wild rice, rinsed; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 carrots, diced; 2 stalks celery, diced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup heavy cream or coconut milk (optional); Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

This Healthy Crockpot Chicken and Wild Rice Soup is a comforting and nutritious meal that’s perfect for any day of the week.

Created by

Marley Quinn

Last updated on 2025-12-28T18:58:12.353Z

This soup is not only healthy but also packed with flavors that warm the soul. Using the crockpot allows the chicken to become tender while the wild rice adds a delightful texture.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Loaded with wholesome ingredients that nourish the body
Conveniently made in a crockpot for effortless cooking
Perfectly balanced flavors that everyone in the family will enjoy

      

Nutritional Benefits of Wild Rice

Wild rice is not just a delicious addition to your soup; it’s also packed with nutrients. Unlike regular white rice, wild rice is a whole grain that contains more protein and fiber. This means it can help keep you full for longer, making it an excellent choice for those looking to maintain a healthy weight. Additionally, wild rice is rich in antioxidants, which can help protect your cells from damage and may reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

Incorporating wild rice into your diet can also provide essential vitamins and minerals, such as magnesium and B vitamins. These nutrients play crucial roles in energy production and overall metabolic health. By choosing wild rice in this crockpot soup, you’re not only enhancing the flavor but also boosting the nutritional profile of your meal.

Crockpot Convenience

One of the standout features of this recipe is its convenience. The crockpot allows for a hands-off cooking experience, making it perfect for busy individuals or families. Simply prepare your ingredients, set the temperature, and let the slow cooker do the work for you. This means you can spend more time focusing on your day-to-day activities while coming home to a warm, hearty meal.

Moreover, slow cooking helps to meld the flavors of the ingredients beautifully, resulting in a rich and savory soup that tastes like it has been simmering for hours. You can set it up in the morning and return home to a delightful aroma filling your kitchen, making dinnertime not only easier but also more enjoyable.

Customizing Your Soup

One of the great things about this Healthy Crockpot Chicken and Wild Rice Soup is its versatility. Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or substituting proteins. For instance, if you prefer a vegetarian option, you can replace the chicken with chickpeas or tofu and use vegetable broth instead. This way, you can cater to different dietary preferences without sacrificing flavor.

You can also experiment with spices and herbs to give the soup a personal touch. Consider adding a pinch of cayenne for heat or a squeeze of lemon for brightness. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to make this recipe uniquely yours while maintaining its wholesome essence.

Ingredients

Soup Ingredients

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

Combine all ingredients in the crockpot for a delicious meal.

Cooking Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

Chop the vegetables and rinse the wild rice. Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of the crockpot.

Add Remaining Ingredients

Add the wild rice, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, chicken broth, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper to the crockpot. Stir to combine.

Cook the Soup

Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or until the chicken and rice are tender.

Shred the Chicken

Once cooked, remove the chicken breasts, shred them with two forks, and return them to the soup.

Add Cream (Optional)

If desired, stir in heavy cream or coconut milk for a richer flavor.

Serve and Enjoy

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot!

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

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers, this soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To ensure freshness, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. When reheating, you may want to add a splash of broth or water to restore its creamy texture, especially if it thickens in the fridge.

For longer storage, consider freezing the soup. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion as it freezes. The soup can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or microwave.

Serving Suggestions

This soup is satisfying on its own, but pairing it with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad can elevate your meal even further. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the soup, while fresh bread allows you to soak up every last drop of that delicious broth.

For a heartier option, you can serve the soup alongside grilled cheese sandwiches or quesadillas. These combinations create a comforting and filling meal that’s perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a little extra warmth.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of wild rice?

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

→ Is there a vegetarian version of this soup?

Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with chickpeas and use vegetable broth.

→ How can I make this soup spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the soup for some heat.

→ Can I freeze the soup?

Yes, this soup freezes well. Just make sure to leave out the cream until reheating.