Ina Garten Chicken and Wild Rice Soup Recipe

Ina Garten’s Chicken and Wild Rice Soup is warm, hearty, and full of wholesome flavor — the kind of comforting bowl you want on chilly evenings or when you need something nourishing and satisfying. Tender chicken, earthy wild rice, fresh vegetables, and a creamy broth come together beautifully in this classic Ina-inspired recipe. It’s simple, wholesome, and perfect for make-ahead meals or cozy family dinners.

What is Ina Garten’s Chicken and Wild Rice Soup?

Ina Garten’s Chicken and Wild Rice Soup is a creamy chicken soup made with cooked chicken, wild rice, vegetables, herbs, and a smooth broth. It offers a balance of richness and freshness, delivering deep flavor without feeling heavy — truly a comforting yet elegant soup.

Other Popular Ina Garten Recipes

• Ina Garten Chicken Skewers
• Ina Garten Caesar Salad
• Ina Garten Best Chicken Recipes

Reasons to Try Ina Garten’s Chicken and Wild Rice Soup

• Hearty and filling – The wild rice adds texture and richness.
• Simple ingredients – Made with everyday pantry staples.
• Comforting flavor – Creamy broth combined with tender chicken.
• Perfect make-ahead dish – Tastes even better the next day.
• Nutritious and balanced – Full of protein, whole grains, and vegetables.
• Versatile meal – Works for lunch, dinner, or freezer meal prep.

Ingredients Needed to Make Ina Garten’s Chicken and Wild Rice Soup

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 carrots, diced
• 3 celery stalks, diced
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or ½ teaspoon dried)
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 6 cups chicken stock
• 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken (rotisserie works well)
• 1 cup wild rice, cooked
• 1 cup whole milk or half-and-half
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
• 2 tablespoons parsley, chopped

Instructions to Prepare Ina Garten Chicken and Wild Rice Soup

Step 1 – Sauté the vegetables

Heat olive oil and butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions, carrots, and celery. Cook for 8–10 minutes until softened. Add garlic and thyme and cook for another minute.

Step 2 – Add the stock

Pour in the chicken stock, season with salt and black pepper, and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 3 – Add chicken and rice

Stir in shredded chicken and cooked wild rice. Let the soup simmer for 10–12 minutes to blend all flavors.

Step 4 – Make it creamy (optional step)

For a thicker, creamier soup, whisk flour into the milk before adding. Slowly pour in the milk or half-and-half while stirring continuously. Let it cook for 5 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 5 – Finish and serve

Stir in chopped parsley, taste for seasoning, and adjust as needed. Serve warm with crusty bread or a fresh salad.

What Goes Well With Ina Garten Chicken and Wild Rice Soup

• Crusty sourdough – Perfect for dipping into the creamy broth.
• Garlic bread – Adds a savory, buttery bite.
• Grilled cheese sandwich – A cozy, comforting pairing.
• Fresh green salad – Lightens the meal with freshness.
• Roasted vegetables – Adds a wholesome, hearty side.

Key Tips for Making Ina Garten Chicken and Wild Rice Soup

• Use cooked wild rice – It keeps the soup from becoming too starchy.
• Add milk slowly – Helps create a smooth, creamy consistency.
• Taste as you go – Adjust salt and pepper after adding the chicken.
• Simmer gently – Prevents the dairy from separating.
• Use quality stock – Deeply enhances the soup’s flavor.
• Avoid overcooking – Keeps the vegetables tender but not mushy.
• Add chicken last – Keeps it moist and tender.

Creative Variations of Ina Garten Chicken and Wild Rice Soup

• Creamier version – Add cream cheese or heavy cream.
• Vegetable-loaded – Add peas, corn, or spinach.
• Herb-rich – Add rosemary or sage for more depth.
• Lemon chicken twist – Add lemon zest and juice for brightness.
• Mushroom version – Add sautéed mushrooms for earthiness.
• Spicy option – Add red pepper flakes or cayenne.

Storage Guidelines for Ina Garten Chicken and Wild Rice Soup

• Refrigerator – Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer – Freeze without dairy for up to 2 months. Add milk after reheating.
• Avoid freezing with rice – Rice can soften too much; add fresh rice when reheating.

Reheating Tips for Ina Garten’s Chicken and Wild Rice Soup

• Stovetop – Warm on low heat, adding broth or milk if thickened.
• Microwave – Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between.
• Avoid boiling – Boiling can cause dairy to separate.

Nutrition Value (per serving)

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fat: 12g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sodium: 620mg

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FAQs

How do I keep the wild rice from making the soup too thick?

Cook the wild rice separately before adding it to the soup. Wild rice releases starch as it cooks, so preparing it separately prevents the broth from becoming overly thick or gummy. Add the cooked rice during the final simmer to keep the texture perfect.

Can I make Ina Garten’s chicken and wild rice soup ahead of time?

Yes, this soup reheats beautifully. Prepare the soup without adding dairy and rice, then refrigerate for up to 3 days. When reheating, add the cooked wild rice and milk or cream to maintain the best texture and flavor.

How do I make the soup creamier without curdling the milk?

Add the milk or half-and-half slowly on low heat and avoid boiling the soup once the dairy is added. Stir continuously and keep the heat gentle to maintain a smooth, creamy consistency.

Can I use rotisserie chicken for Ina Garten chicken and wild rice soup?

Absolutely. Rotisserie chicken is a convenient option and adds great flavor. Shred the meat and add it during the final simmer so it stays tender and doesn’t overcook.

Wrapping Up

Ina Garten’s Chicken and Wild Rice Soup is cozy, creamy, and deeply satisfying — a true comfort-food classic. It’s simple to prepare, rich in flavor, and perfect for make-ahead meals or busy evenings. With tender chicken, hearty wild rice, and a softly seasoned broth, this soup brings warmth to every bowl and is sure to become a family favorite.