Step into the heart of culinary tradition with Creamy Chicken and Herby Wild Rice Soup, a dish steeped in history and revered for its comforting allure. Originating from the ancestral kitchens of Native American tribes, this soup pays homage to the rich cultural tapestry of indigenous cuisine.

For centuries, wild rice held sacred significance among Native American communities, symbolizing sustenance, prosperity, and spiritual connection to the land.

Over time, wild rice recipes like Creamy Chicken and Herby Wild Rice Soup have transcended their cultural origins, evolving into a beloved comfort food embraced by people of all backgrounds.

Join us on a journey of flavour, tradition, and culinary discovery as we explore the origins, variations, and enduring allure of Creamy Chicken and Herby Wild Rice Soup—a dish that transcends time, culture, and borders to unite us in the shared joy of good food and cherished memories.

Origins of this dish

Rooted in the cultural tapestry of Native American cuisine, Creamy Chicken and Herby Wild Rice Soup pays homage to centuries-old traditions while embracing contemporary culinary techniques.

Wild rice, revered as a sacred grain by indigenous communities, serves as the cornerstone of this dish, imbuing it with a depth of flavour and cultural significance that transcends borders and generations.

Passed down through oral tradition and cherished family recipes, this soup embodies the spirit of communal gatherings, storytelling, and the simple joy of sharing a meal with loved ones.

Why This Wild Rice Soup is a Must-Try Recipe?

From the nutty richness of wild rice to the savoury depth of chicken broth, every ingredient tells a story, weaving together flavours and aromas that evoke a sense of home and belonging. This soup is a celebration of culinary creativity and the endless possibilities of flavour.

Whether enjoyed on a chilly winter evening or shared with loved ones around the table, Creamy Chicken and Herby Wild Rice Soup offers a symphony of taste that transcends cultural boundaries and unites us in the shared joy of good food and cherished memories.

So why is this soup a must-try recipe? Because it’s more than just a dish—it’s a culinary masterpiece that embodies tradition, flavour, and the timeless appeal of comfort food.

From the velvety texture of the broth to the hearty chunks of chicken and the fragrant herbs that dance on the palate, each element harmonizes to create an experience that transcends the ordinary.

Whether enjoyed on a crisp autumn evening or savoured as a comforting midday reprieve, this soup promises to delight and inspire with its depth of flavour, versatility, and timeless appeal.

 

Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup Recipe

  • 15 - 30Min
  • Medium
  • 6-8

A wild rice soup recipe

Ingredients

Ingredients:

  • ½ cup/125ml Dainty Borealis Rice
  • 2 tbsp Unsalted Butter or Extra Virgin Olive Oil
  • 1 medium Onion, peeled and diced
  • 2 small Carrots, peeled and diced
  • 1 Rib Celery, diced
  • 2 Cloves Garlic, minced
  • 2 Sprigs Fresh Thyme
  • 1 tsp dried Sage
  • 2 tsp dried Oregano
  • 3 tbsp All Purpose Flour
  • 8 cups/ 2L good quality Chicken Stock, homemade or bought
  • ¾ cup/180ml cooked Dainty Borealis Rice
  • 1 ½ cups/375ml cooked Chicken or Turkey, chopped rough
  • Salt and Pepper
  • 3 tbsp chopped Parsley
  • ½ cup/125ml 35% Whipping Cream (optional)

Preparation

1

Cook the ½ cup/125ml of Dainty Borealis Rice according to package instructions. Set aside.

2

In a large heavy bottom pot, heat the butter or oil over medium heat or medium high heat. When hot, add the onion, carrot, celery, garlic, and thyme, sage, and oregano. Sauté for 4–5 minutes, or until the onions wilt and the vegetables are glistening. Season with salt and pepper as desired. Add in the flour and stir to combine fully.

3

Using a whisk, slowly whisk in the chicken stock until the flour is fully blended in. Bring the broth to a simmer and reduce the heat to medium. Allow to cook for 5–10 minutes for the flour to fully cook out.

4

When the broth is thickened and smooth, stir in the cooked Dainty Borealis Rice and the cooked chicken or turkey meat. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper and stir in the chopped parsley. Add in the cream at the end if using.

 

Essential Tips for Perfect Wild Rice Soup

Crafting the perfect batch of Wild Rice Soup requires attention to detail and a few key techniques to ensure optimal flavour and texture. Here are some essential tips to elevate your soup-making skills:

1. Prep Ingredients in Advance:

Before you start cooking, ensure all your ingredients are chopped, minced, and measured to streamline the cooking process and prevent any last-minute rushes.

2. Sauté Aromatics:

Begin by sautéing the veggies; onions, carrots, celery, and garlic in butter or olive oil until softened. This step builds a flavour base for the soup and enhances the overall depth of flavour.

3. Use High-Quality Chicken Stock:

Opt for homemade chicken stock or a high-quality store-bought version to impart rich flavour to the soup. Avoid using overly salty or artificial broths, as they can overpower the delicate taste of the wild rice blend and the veggies.

4. Slowly Incorporate Flour:

When adding flour to thicken the soup, sprinkle it evenly over the sautéed vegetables and stir continuously to create a smooth paste, one tablespoon at a time. This ensures the flour is fully incorporated and prevents lumps from forming.

5. Simmer Gently:

Once the chicken stock is added, bring the soup to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Avoid boiling the soup vigorously, as this can cause the rice to become mushy and the flavours to dull.

6. Allow Time for Flavours to Develop:

Let the soup simmer for at least 20–30 minutes, even an hour, to allow the savoury flavours to meld together and the wild rice to fully cook. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, season with salt, pepper, and herbs to enhance the taste.

7. Finish with Fresh Herbs and Cream (Optional):

Stir in freshly chopped herbs, such as parsley or thyme, just before serving to add a burst of freshness and aroma. For added richness, swirl in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk to create a luxurious texture.

8. Let Soup Rest Before Serving:

Allow the soup to rest for a few minutes off the heat before serving it in a bowl. This allows the flavours to intensify and the soup to thicken slightly, resulting in a more satisfying dining experience.

By following these essential tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating a perfect batch of Wild Rice Soup that delights the palate and warms the soul.

Pairing Suggestions: What to Serve With Your Wild Rice Soup

Elevate your dining experience with thoughtful pairings that complement the rich flavours and textures of the soup, that will keep your guests sitting at the dinner table for hours:

  • Crusty Bread and Cheese: Enhance the rustic charm of the soup with crusty artisanal bread and a selection of aged cheeses, such as sharp cheddar or creamy brie.
  • Fresh Salad: Brighten up your meal with a crisp salad featuring pieces of seasonal greens, crunchy vegetables like celery stalks cut up in bite-size pieces medium carrots, add in mixed nuts like cashews or almonds and a note of tangy vinaigrette, offering a refreshing contrast to the soup’s richness.
  • Roasted Vegetables: Add depth and complexity to your meal by serving a mixture of roasted vegetables, such as root vegetables or Brussels sprouts, alongside the soup, creating a hearty and satisfying feast for the senses.

Enhancing Flavours: Spice and Herb Recommendations

You can easily experiment with a variety of herbs and spices to elevate the flavour profile of your soup!

Notably, you can enhance the soup’s aroma and complexity with a bouquet of fresh herbs, such as thyme, rosemary, or sage, adding a burst of freshness to each spoonful.

You can also incorporate different spices to elevate the soup’s depth of flavour. With spices like smoked paprika, cumin, or coriander you’ll be infusing it with warmth and complexity that tantalizes the taste buds.

Wild Rice Soup Variations

Expand your culinary horizons with these enticing variations of Creamy Chicken and Herby Wild Rice Soup:

Vegetarian Delight

Embrace the flavours of the season with a vegetarian rendition of the soup, featuring hearty vegetables, such as butternut squash, kale, and mushrooms, simmered in a rich vegetable broth for a nourishing and satisfying meal.

Thai-Inspired Coconut Curry Soup

Transport your taste buds to the vibrant streets of Thailand with a fragrant and spicy coconut curry soup, infused with lemongrass, ginger, and red curry paste, and garnished with fresh cilantro and lime for a burst of citrusy flavour.

Italian-Inspired Tomato and Basil Soup

Indulge in the rustic charm of Italian cuisine with a tomato and basil soup that celebrates the simplicity of fresh ingredients and robust flavours. Pairing ripe tomatoes with fragrant basil, garlic, and a splash of balsamic vinegar, this soup offers a taste of Italy in every spoonful.

Explore Dainty’s Rice Options Today!

At Dainty, we believe that exceptional meals begin with exceptional ingredients. That’s why we offer a diverse selection of premium rice varieties sourced from around the globe, each chosen for its superior quality, flavour, and versatility.

From the nutty richness of our Borealis Rice to the exotic allure of our Black Rice Blend, our rice offerings are meticulously curated to inspire culinary creativity and elevate everyday meals to extraordinary heights. Whether crafting soups, stir-fries, or pilafs, Dainty rice is the perfect choice for discerning home cooks and culinary enthusiasts alike.

So gather your ingredients, ignite your passion for cooking, and embark on a culinary journey that celebrates the art of good food and the joy of shared meals with Creamy Chicken and Herby Wild Rice Soup.