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 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup wild rice, rinsed; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried rosemary; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup spinach, chopped

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

Created by

Lucinda Price

Last updated on 2025-12-30T01:46:16.176Z

This Healthy Crockpot Chicken and Wild Rice Soup is a comforting meal packed with nutrients. Perfect for busy days, it cooks slowly to enhance the flavors and tenderness of the chicken.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Wholesome ingredients that nourish the body
A hearty soup that warms you from the inside out
Effortless preparation with minimal cleanup

      

Nutritional Benefits

This Healthy Crockpot Chicken and Wild Rice Soup is packed with wholesome ingredients that not only taste great but also offer numerous health benefits. Chicken is a fantastic source of lean protein, while wild rice adds a nutty flavor along with essential minerals like magnesium and phosphorus. Together, they create a filling meal that supports muscle health and overall well-being.

The addition of vibrant vegetables such as carrots, celery, and spinach contributes vitamins A, C, and K, enhancing your immune system and promoting healthy skin. These ingredients work synergistically to provide a nutrient-dense soup that satisfies hunger without compromising your health goals.

Moreover, using low-sodium chicken broth helps to keep the sodium content in check, making it suitable for those monitoring their salt intake. This soup is a perfect choice for families looking to enjoy a nutritious meal that doesn't require extensive cooking time.

Perfect for Meal Prep

One of the best features of this Healthy Crockpot Chicken and Wild Rice Soup is its suitability for meal prep. You can easily double the recipe to have enough for the week ahead, allowing you to enjoy a hearty homemade meal even during your busiest days. Simply portion it out into individual containers for quick lunches or dinners.

Additionally, this soup freezes beautifully, making it a great option for storing leftovers. Just let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe bags or containers. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave for a comforting meal that tastes just as good as when it was first made.

With its rich flavors and wholesome ingredients, this soup is not only a time-saver but also a delicious way to ensure you have nutritious meals on hand.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Healthy Crockpot Chicken and Wild Rice Soup even further, consider serving it with crusty whole-grain bread or a fresh side salad. The combination of warm soup and fresh bread creates a satisfying meal perfect for chilly evenings. You can also add a sprinkle of parmesan cheese or a dollop of Greek yogurt on top for added creaminess and flavor.

If you're looking to spice things up, try garnishing your soup with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro just before serving. This not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish.

For those who enjoy a little heat, a dash of hot sauce or crushed red pepper flakes can give the soup an exciting twist, making it a versatile dish that can cater to a variety of palates.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup wild rice, rinsed
1 medium onion, diced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup spinach, chopped

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

In the crockpot, combine the chicken breasts, wild rice, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, chicken broth, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.

Cook the Soup

Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.

Shred the Chicken

Once cooked, remove the chicken breasts and shred them with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot.

Add Spinach

Stir in the chopped spinach and let it wilt for about 5 minutes before serving.

Storage Tips

When it comes to storing your Healthy Crockpot Chicken and Wild Rice Soup, it's important to let it cool to room temperature before placing it in the refrigerator or freezer. In the fridge, it can last for up to 4 days, allowing you to enjoy it throughout the week. For longer storage, freeze it for up to 3 months.

When reheating, make sure to stir the soup well, as the wild rice may soak up some of the broth during storage. You can add a splash of water or additional broth to achieve your desired consistency. This ensures that each bowl remains hearty and satisfying.

Customizing Your Soup

Feel free to customize this Healthy Crockpot Chicken and Wild Rice Soup to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. You can substitute the chicken with turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Additionally, experimenting with different vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini can add new textures and flavors.

If you're looking for a creamier version, consider adding a splash of coconut milk or a few tablespoons of cream cheese during the last few minutes of cooking. This will create a rich, velvety texture that pairs beautifully with the earthy flavors of wild rice.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of wild rice?

Yes, but adjust the cooking time as brown rice may take longer to cook.

→ Is this soup freezer-friendly?

Absolutely! You can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just thaw and reheat before serving.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Yes, feel free to add vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers for extra nutrition.

→ How can I make this soup creamier?

You can stir in a little heavy cream or coconut milk just before serving.