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, sliced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 1 tsp dried thyme; 1 tsp dried rosemary; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup spinach, chopped

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

Enjoy a warm, nutritious bowl of this Healthy Crockpot Chicken and Wild Rice Soup, perfect for cozy nights in.

Created by

Lillian Hayes

Last updated on 2025-12-28T18:25:06.645Z

This soup combines tender chicken, earthy wild rice, and vibrant vegetables, all simmered to perfection in your crockpot.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Packed with wholesome ingredients for a nutritious meal
Effortless preparation with minimal cleanup
Perfectly creamy without the guilt

      

A Nutritious Choice

This Healthy Crockpot Chicken and Wild Rice Soup is not just a meal; it’s a wholesome choice for anyone looking to maintain a balanced diet. Packed with lean protein from chicken and nutritious ingredients like wild rice, carrots, and spinach, this soup provides essential vitamins and minerals. Each bowl is filled with antioxidants and fiber, making it a delightful way to nourish your body while enjoying a comforting dish.

Wild rice, the star of this recipe, is a fantastic alternative to white rice. It is higher in protein and fiber, helping you feel fuller for longer. Additionally, its nutty flavor complements the tender chicken and fresh vegetables beautifully, creating a rich and satisfying soup that can be enjoyed any day of the week.

Effortless Cooking

One of the best aspects of this recipe is its simplicity. The crockpot takes center stage, allowing you to prepare the ingredients in just a few minutes. Once everything is in the pot, you can set it and forget it, freeing up your time for other tasks. This effortless approach makes it ideal for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays when you want a home-cooked meal without the fuss.

Minimal cleanup is another advantage of this recipe. With just one pot to wash, you can spend more time enjoying your meal and less time scrubbing dishes. This makes it a perfect choice for families or anyone who values convenience without compromising on taste or health.

Customizable for Your Taste

This soup is also highly customizable. You can easily add your favorite vegetables or swap out the chicken for turkey or even a plant-based protein for a vegetarian version. Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to create a flavor profile that suits your palate best. The versatility of this recipe ensures that you can enjoy it in various ways throughout the seasons.

Additionally, if you prefer a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of coconut milk or a dollop of Greek yogurt before serving. These additions will enhance the flavor while keeping the soup healthy and light.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

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

Note: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables!

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

In the crockpot, add the chicken, wild rice, onion, carrots, celery, and garlic.

Add the Broth and Seasonings

Pour in the chicken broth and add thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.

Cook the Soup

Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.

Shred the Chicken

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

Add Spinach

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

Serve warm and enjoy your hearty soup!

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Healthy Crockpot Chicken and Wild Rice Soup with a side of warm, crusty bread for a complete meal. The bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy soup, adding a delightful texture. You can also pair it with a fresh green salad to increase your vegetable intake and create a well-rounded dinner.

For a heartier meal, consider adding a sprinkle of grated cheese on top before serving. Cheese can enhance the flavor and richness of the soup, making it even more satisfying. Just be mindful of the amount, especially if you’re watching your calorie intake.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This soup actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat on the stove or microwave until warmed through.

For longer storage, you can freeze the soup in individual portions. When freezing, be sure to leave some space in the container for expansion. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating, and enjoy a nutritious meal anytime you crave a comforting bowl of soup.

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 gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients used are gluten-free.

→ Can I freeze the soup?

Absolutely! Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

→ How can I make this soup vegetarian?

Substitute the chicken with mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead.