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.
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
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.
Pour in the chicken stock, season with salt and black pepper, and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Stir in shredded chicken and cooked wild rice. Let the soup simmer for 10–12 minutes to blend all flavors.
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.
Stir in chopped parsley, taste for seasoning, and adjust as needed. Serve warm with crusty bread or a fresh salad.