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 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup wild rice, rinsed; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 carrots, sliced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 1 tsp dried thyme; 1 tsp dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup spinach, chopped; 1 cup heavy cream (optional)

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

This Healthy Crockpot Chicken and Wild Rice Soup is perfect for a cozy dinner. Packed with nutrients and flavor, it's an easy one-pot meal that will warm your soul.

Created by

Maya Richardson

Last updated on 2025-12-29T23:46:14.770Z

This soup is a family favorite, combining tender chicken, wholesome wild rice, and a medley of vegetables in a rich, flavorful broth.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        A nutritious and hearty meal that's easy to prepare
The wild rice adds a delightful texture and flavor
Perfect for busy weeknights with minimal cleanup

      

A Comforting One-Pot Meal

When the temperatures drop, there's nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup to comfort the soul. This Healthy Crockpot Chicken and Wild Rice Soup is designed to be a wholesome meal that not only satisfies your hunger but also nourishes your body. Utilizing the slow cooker means you can set it and forget it, allowing you to focus on your day while the flavors meld together beautifully.

One of the best aspects of this recipe is its versatility. Feel free to add in any leftover vegetables or herbs you have on hand. This encourages creativity in the kitchen and minimizes food waste, making it a win-win for both your palate and the environment.

Nutritional Benefits

This soup is packed with nutrient-dense ingredients that contribute to a balanced diet. Chicken breast is a fantastic source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth. The wild rice not only adds a unique flavor but is also high in fiber, helping you feel fuller for longer and promoting digestive health.

The addition of spinach provides a boost of vitamins A and C, as well as iron, making this soup a great choice for those looking to enhance their immune system. By opting for low-sodium chicken broth, you can also keep the sodium levels in check, ensuring your meal is heart-healthy.

Perfect for Meal Prep

This Healthy Crockpot Chicken and Wild Rice Soup is an excellent option for meal prepping. Make a large batch at the beginning of the week, and you'll have delicious, nutritious lunches or dinners ready to go. Simply store the soup in individual containers and reheat as needed, keeping your meals both convenient and healthy.

Additionally, this soup freezes well, making it a perfect choice for those busy weeks when cooking from scratch feels overwhelming. Just portion out the leftovers into freezer-safe containers, and you'll have a homemade meal ready to thaw and enjoy whenever you need a quick, comforting dish.

Ingredients

For the soup

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup wild rice, rinsed
1 medium onion, diced
2 carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup spinach, chopped
1 cup heavy cream (optional)

Mix all ingredients well before cooking.

Instructions

Prepare the ingredients

Dice the onion, slice the carrots, and chop the spinach. Rinse the wild rice under cold water.

Combine in the crockpot

Place the chicken, wild rice, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, chicken broth, thyme, and oregano in the crockpot. Season with salt and pepper.

Cook the soup

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

Shred the chicken

Once cooked, remove the chicken, shred it with two forks, and return it to the pot. Stir in the spinach and heavy cream if using.

Serve

Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Enjoy your healthy and delicious soup!

Storing and Reheating Tips

To ensure the best flavor and texture, store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days. When reheating, do so on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. If the soup has thickened, add a splash of chicken broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

For long-term storage, consider freezing the soup. Let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove.

Serving Suggestions

This soup is delicious on its own, but you can elevate your dining experience by serving it with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad. A sprinkle of freshly chopped herbs like parsley or thyme can also add a burst of flavor and a touch of color to your bowl, making it visually appealing.

For those who enjoy a little heat, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes when serving. This adds an exciting twist and complements the creamy texture of the soup beautifully.

Variations to Try

While this recipe is delicious as is, you can easily customize it to suit your tastes or dietary needs. For a dairy-free option, simply omit the heavy cream or substitute it with coconut milk for a creamy texture without the dairy. You can also experiment with different greens such as kale or Swiss chard in place of spinach.

If you’re looking for a heartier soup, consider adding other grains like quinoa or barley alongside the wild rice. These additions not only enhance the flavor but also contribute additional nutrients, making your meal even more wholesome.

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.

→ Can I make this soup gluten-free?

Yes, ensure the chicken broth is gluten-free and avoid adding any gluten-containing ingredients.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze this soup?

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