There’s nothing quite like a warm, hearty bowl of soup to chase away the chill, especially during colder months. This exquisite creamy chicken and wild rice soup offers the perfect blend of rich flavors and comforting textures, making it an ideal choice for a cozy night in. Packed with tender shredded chicken, a vibrant medley of vegetables, and the distinct nutty chewiness of wild rice, all bathed in a luxuriously creamy, savory broth, this soup is a true culinary hug.

What makes this particular recipe even more special is its thoughtful design to be 100% gluten-free and dairy-free. This means you can indulge in this delightful comfort food without worry, whether you have dietary restrictions or simply prefer lighter, yet equally satisfying, meal options. Get ready to dive into a bowl of pure, wholesome deliciousness that everyone at your table will love. Its robust flavor profile and creamy consistency make it a standout among cozy soup recipes, promising warmth and satisfaction with every spoonful.

Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup Recipe:

This isn’t just another soup recipe; it’s a culinary gem designed for ease, flavor, and broad appeal. Here’s why this creamy chicken and wild rice soup is destined to become a staple in your kitchen:

• Effortlessly Delicious & Simple Ingredients: You don’t need exotic items or a specialized grocery store for this recipe. All the ingredients are readily available at any local supermarket, making preparation straightforward and stress-free. From fresh vegetables to pantry staples, everything comes together harmoniously to create a surprisingly complex and deeply satisfying flavor.
• Remarkably Easy to Make: Don’t let the gourmet taste fool you – this soup is incredibly simple to prepare. The process involves just a few key steps: a quick sauté of the aromatics, followed by combining the remaining ingredients and letting them simmer gently. It’s a largely hands-off process, allowing the flavors to meld and deepen without constant attention. Even beginner cooks will find this recipe approachable and rewarding.
• Perfectly Gluten-Free & Dairy-Free: This is a major highlight for anyone with dietary considerations. This creamy chicken soup with wild rice is meticulously crafted to be 100% gluten-free and dairy-free. This means individuals with Celiac disease, gluten sensitivity, or lactose intolerance can enjoy every comforting spoonful without compromise or discomfort. We achieve this rich creaminess using plant-based alternatives that don’t sacrifice flavor or texture.
• Nutritious and Wholesome: Beyond its incredible taste, this soup is packed with wholesome ingredients. Lean shredded chicken provides protein, while a colorful array of vegetables adds essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Wild rice contributes a healthy dose of complex carbohydrates and nutrients, making this a well-rounded and nourishing meal.
• Family-Friendly Comfort Food: This soup is a crowd-pleaser for all ages. Its mild yet flavorful profile, combined with familiar ingredients, makes it a hit with kids and adults alike. It’s the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table, offering warmth and satisfaction.
• Excellent for Meal Prep: This soup holds up beautifully, making it perfect for meal prepping. Prepare a large batch at the beginning of the week, and you’ll have delicious, ready-to-heat meals for days. It often tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld!

Essential Ingredients for Your Delicious Chicken and Wild Rice Soup:

Crafting this hearty and flavorful soup begins with selecting quality ingredients. Most items you’ll need are readily available at your local grocery store, making this a convenient recipe for any home cook. We’ll be focusing on a blend of fresh produce and pantry staples to build a rich flavor base and a satisfying texture.

Here’s a visual overview of the key components that come together to create this incredible chicken wild rice soup recipe. Each ingredient plays a vital role in achieving the perfect balance of taste and creaminess while adhering to our gluten-free and dairy-free standards.

(For the precise measurements and a comprehensive list of ingredients, please scroll down to the detailed printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.)

Ingredient Deep Dive: Notes & Smart Substitutions for Perfect Results

Understanding your ingredients and their potential substitutions is key to culinary success, especially when catering to specific dietary needs. Here’s a closer look at the components of this creamy chicken and wild rice soup recipe, along with helpful tips for variations:

• Dairy-Free Butter: To maintain the dairy-free integrity of this recipe, I’ve opted for a high-quality dairy-free unsalted butter. These plant-based alternatives provide the richness and sautéing capabilities of traditional butter without the dairy. If you are not avoiding lactose, feel free to use regular unsalted butter for an equally delicious outcome.
• Mirepoix (Veggies): The foundation of flavor for many classic soups, including this one, is a mirepoix. I use a classic blend of diced onions, celery, and carrots. These aromatics caramelize slightly when sautéed, adding depth and sweetness to the broth. For an extra layer of flavor and nutrition, you can also add other finely diced vegetables like parsnips, leeks, or bell peppers. Just ensure they are cut to a similar size for even cooking.
• Shredded Chicken: The tender shredded chicken is a highlight of this soup. For ultimate convenience and flavor, I often recommend using rotisserie chicken. Simply remove the skin and bones, then shred the meat. Alternatively, you can easily boil or bake a couple of boneless, skinless chicken breasts until cooked through, then shred them with two forks or a stand mixer.
• Wild Rice: As the name suggests, wild rice is a star ingredient here. Its distinctive nutty flavor, chewy texture, and beautiful dark color are integral to the soup’s character. Wild rice is a whole grain, offering a robust and satisfying element. While pure wild rice is preferred for its unique qualities, a wild rice blend (which typically includes wild rice mixed with white or brown rice) can also be used if you prefer a softer grain or can’t find pure wild rice. Be aware that cooking times might vary with blends.
• Gluten-Free Flour: This ingredient acts as a thickening agent, creating the desirable creamy consistency. It’s crucial to use a good-quality gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Look for blends primarily composed of lighter flours and starches such as rice flour, tapioca starch, corn starch, or potato starch. These provide a smooth texture without a gritty aftertaste. I strongly advise against using gluten-free blends heavy in bean flours (like garbanzo bean flour), as they can impart an undesirable flavor and texture to the soup. If gluten isn’t a concern for you, regular all-purpose wheat flour can be used in the same quantity.
• Chicken Broth: The quality of your broth significantly impacts the soup’s overall flavor. You can use either chicken broth or chicken stock. Homemade chicken broth offers the richest, most complex flavor, but a good quality store-bought low-sodium chicken broth or stock will work perfectly well and save time. Ensure your chosen broth is also gluten-free if needed, as some brands may contain hidden gluten.
• Thyme: Fresh herbs elevate the taste of any dish. I love using fresh thyme sprigs for their aromatic, earthy notes. If fresh thyme isn’t available, dried thyme can be substituted; generally, use about one-third of the amount of fresh herbs. Beyond thyme, other complementary herbs include bay leaves (remove before serving) or fresh rosemary for a slightly different aromatic profile.
• Dairy-Free Heavy Cream: To achieve that luxurious, silky texture without dairy, I use dairy-free heavy cream. Coconut cream (the thick part from a can of full-fat coconut milk, not the light version) can also be used for a slightly different, but still delicious, flavor. If lactose intolerance isn’t an issue, traditional heavy cream or even half-and-half can be used to impart creaminess.
• Spinach: Fresh spinach adds a beautiful pop of green, a subtle earthy flavor, and a boost of fiber and nutrients. It wilts quickly into the hot soup, adding vibrancy without altering the core flavor. If you prefer, other leafy greens like finely chopped kale (which will need a bit more time to soften) or Swiss chard can also be used.

Step-by-Step: Crafting Your Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup

Creating this delicious and comforting soup is a straightforward process. Follow these easy steps to bring this gluten-free and dairy-free masterpiece to life in your own kitchen. Remember to read through all instructions before you begin!

Step 1: Sauté Your Aromatics to Perfection

Begin by melting the dairy-free butter in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over low heat. Once melted, add the diced onion, carrot, and celery. This trio forms your mirepoix, the aromatic backbone of the soup. Cook these vegetables gently for about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they have softened considerably and become fragrant. Avoid browning them too much; we’re aiming for tenderness and sweetness. Next, stir in the minced garlic and continue to cook for just 1 more minute until it becomes aromatic. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as this can impart a bitter taste.

Step 2: Create a Flavorful Roux with Gluten-Free Flour

Once your vegetables are softened and fragrant, sprinkle the gluten-free all-purpose flour evenly over the vegetables. Stir continuously with a wooden spoon or spatula, ensuring that the flour coats all the vegetables and absorbs the butter. Continue to cook this mixture for another 2 minutes, stirring frequently. This crucial step cooks out the raw flour taste and allows the flour to toast slightly, which will contribute to a deeper, richer flavor in your soup base and ensure a smooth, lump-free consistency when the liquid is added.

Step 3: Build the Broth, Add Rice & Chicken, and Simmer

Gradually pour in the chicken broth, whisking or stirring constantly as you add it. This continuous stirring is vital to prevent lumps from forming from the flour. Once the broth is fully incorporated and smooth, add the fresh thyme sprigs, salt, and ground pepper. Stir in the shredded chicken and, most importantly, the wild rice. Mix everything thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are well distributed. Bring the soup to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it cook for approximately 25 to 30 minutes. The goal is for the wild rice to become tender, which can vary slightly depending on the type of wild rice used. Taste a grain or two to check for doneness.

Step 4: Incorporate Cream & Spinach for Finishing Touches

With the wild rice tender and the flavors well developed, it’s time to add the creaminess and freshness. Stir in the dairy-free heavy cream until it’s fully combined and the soup takes on a richer, more opaque appearance. Next, add the fresh spinach leaves. Continue to simmer the soup for another 3 to 5 minutes, or just until the spinach has wilted completely and the soup has thickened slightly to your desired consistency. The gentle simmer allows the cream to warm through without scorching and the spinach to cook quickly.

Step 5: Allow the Soup to Rest for Enhanced Flavor

Before serving, it’s highly recommended to cover the pot and let the creamy chicken and wild rice soup rest off the heat for at least 10 to 15 minutes. This resting period is not just for cooling; it allows the flavors to further meld and deepen, and the wild rice to absorb any remaining liquid, resulting in a more harmonious and perfectly textured soup. This small step makes a significant difference in the overall enjoyment of the dish.

Step 6: Garnish & Serve Your Comforting Soup

Once rested, ladle the warm, creamy chicken and wild rice soup into bowls. For an appealing presentation and an extra layer of freshness, garnish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped herbs such as parsley or chives, or a dash of freshly ground black pepper. Serve immediately with a side of gluten-free crusty bread for dipping, or a simple green salad. Enjoy this comforting and wholesome meal!

Beyond Soup: Other Hearty Chicken Recipes You’ll Adore:

If you have extra chicken on hand or are simply looking for more delicious and diet-friendly chicken dishes, we’ve got you covered. These recipes are perfect for any weeknight meal or special occasion:

• Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup (Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free)
• Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup (Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free)
• Easy Chicken Meatloaf (Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free)
• Chicken Birria Tacos (Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free Option)

P.S. If you try this recipe, I’d absolutely love for you to leave a star rating below, and/or share your thoughts with a review in the comment section further down the page. Your feedback is always incredibly valuable and appreciated! Be sure to explore my entire Recipe Index for all the delicious recipes available on the blog. You can also connect with me and find more culinary inspiration by following me on Pinterest, Facebook, or Instagram! Don’t forget to sign up for my Email List to receive fresh, new recipes directly in your inbox each week!

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Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup (Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free)

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  Author: Felicia Lim
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  Total Time: 55 minutes
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  Yield: 4 servings 1x
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  Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

This luxuriously creamy chicken and wild rice soup is a perfect blend of tender shredded chicken, hearty vegetables, and nutty wild rice, all swimming in a savory, dairy-free, and gluten-free broth. It’s the ultimate comforting meal for cold nights, offering wholesome deliciousness without compromise.

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Ingredients

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• 1 tablespoon dairy-free unsalted butter
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 celery stalk, diced
• 1 carrot, julienned
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 1/2 cups cooked shredded chicken
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground pepper
• 1/2 cup wild rice
• 2 tablespoons gluten-free all-purpose flour
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 6–7 sprigs fresh thyme
• 1/2 cup dairy-free heavy cream
• 1 cup spinach leaves

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Instructions

1. Sauté Veggies: Melt the dairy-free butter in a large pot over low heat. Add the diced onion, carrot, and celery. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
2. Sprinkle Gluten-Free Flour: Sprinkle the gluten-free all-purpose flour over the vegetables, stirring continuously to coat them thoroughly. Cook for another 2 minutes, stirring often, to cook out the raw flour taste and create a roux.
3. Add Broth, Condiments, Rice & Simmer: Gradually pour in the chicken broth while stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Add the fresh thyme sprigs, salt, ground pepper, shredded chicken, and wild rice. Mix everything well and bring the soup to a gentle simmer. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let it cook for about 25-30 minutes, or until the wild rice is tender.
4. Add Cream & Spinach: Stir in the dairy-free heavy cream and fresh spinach. Simmer for another 3-5 minutes, just until the spinach wilts and the soup thickens slightly to your liking.
5. Let Soup Rest Before Serving: Cover the pot and let the chicken and wild rice soup rest off the heat for 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the soup to achieve its best texture.
6. Garnish & Serve: Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs (like parsley or chives) and a sprinkle of ground black pepper if desired. Serve warm.

Notes

Butter: I used dairy-free butter to keep this recipe dairy-free. However, if you are not lactose-intolerant, go ahead and use regular butter instead for a similar rich flavor.

Veggies: The classic mirepoix (onions, celery, carrots) provides a strong flavor base. You can also add other finely diced root vegetables or greens like parsnips or kale for more complexity and nutrition.

Shredded Chicken: For quick preparation, rotisserie chicken is ideal. Alternatively, cook and shred chicken breasts or thighs at home. Ensure the chicken is already cooked before adding it to the soup.

Wild Rice: This is a key ingredient, lending unique texture and a nutty flavor. For best results, use pure wild rice. A wild rice blend can be used, but note that cooking times may vary and the final texture will be different.

Gluten-Free Flour: Use a light, all-purpose gluten-free flour blend (rice, tapioca, corn, potato starches). Avoid heavier bean-based flours as they can affect taste and texture. Regular all-purpose flour works if gluten is not a concern.

Chicken Broth: Opt for low-sodium chicken broth or stock. Homemade broth will always provide the richest flavor, but a good quality store-bought version is perfectly acceptable. Ensure it is gluten-free if necessary.

Thyme: Fresh thyme sprigs offer the best aromatic flavor. If using dried thyme, use approximately 1/3 of the amount of fresh. Other herbs like bay leaves (remove before serving) or rosemary can also be used for variation.

Cream: Dairy-free heavy cream ensures the recipe remains dairy-free and achieves a luscious consistency. If dairy is not an issue, regular heavy cream or half-and-half can be used instead.

Spinach: Fresh spinach wilts beautifully, adding color and nutrients. Kale can be used as a substitute, but it may require a slightly longer simmering time to soften.

• Prep Time: 5 mins
• Cook Time: 50 mins
• Category: Soups
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American