Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Slow Cooker Chicken Wild Rice Soup is a comforting, hearty dish that’s perfect for chilly days. With tender chunks of chicken, earthy wild rice, and a medley of vegetables all simmered in a creamy broth, this soup is both nutritious and filling. Using a slow cooker makes it easy to prepare—just set it and forget it until mealtime.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

chicken breasts or thighswild rice (uncooked)carrotsceleryoniongarlicchicken broththymebay leavesaltpepperbutterflourmilk or half-and-half

directions

Place the chicken, wild rice, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, chicken broth, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper into the slow cooker.

Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours, until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.

Remove the chicken, shred it with two forks, and return it to the soup.

In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.

Slowly whisk in the milk or half-and-half and cook until thickened, about 4-5 minutes.

Stir the creamy mixture into the slow cooker and mix well.

Let the soup continue to cook for another 10-15 minutes, uncovered, until heated through and slightly thickened.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 7-8 hours (low) or 4-5 hours (high)
Final simmer time: 10-15 minutes
Total time: 7-9 hours

Variations

Add mushrooms for extra depth and umami flavor.
Use rotisserie chicken for a quicker version.
Swap dairy for coconut milk to make it dairy-free.
Add a splash of white wine during cooking for added richness.

storage/reheating

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until hot.
Soup can be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use white rice instead of wild rice?
Yes, but white rice cooks faster and may become mushy if cooked too long.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes, substitute vegetable broth and omit the chicken or use a plant-based alternative.

Why is my rice still firm?
Some wild rice blends take longer to cook—ensure your cooker is on the right setting and allow extra time if needed.

Can I add cream cheese for a richer soup?
Yes, a few ounces of cream cheese can add a creamy tang.

Is this soup gluten-free?
It can be made gluten-free by using a gluten-free flour in the roux or omitting it for a thinner soup.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Chicken Wild Rice Soup is the ultimate cozy meal—easy to make, full of wholesome ingredients, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re meal prepping or looking for a no-fuss dinner, this recipe delivers rich flavor and comfort with every spoonful.