Wild rice soup has become a beloved comfort food, especially during chilly evenings. There’s something about its earthy, hearty, and slightly nutty flavor that instantly feels cozy and warming. Among all its variations, Lunds Wild Rice Soup with Chicken stands out as a fan favorite. This recipe brings together the rich flavors of wild rice and tender chicken in a creamy broth, creating a balanced dish that satisfies both the stomach and the soul.
What makes this soup even more delightful is its versatility. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or for meal prep, it’s one of those dishes that gets better with time. The longer it sits, the more the flavors meld together, creating an even richer taste. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients, so you’re not just indulging in comfort food, but you’re also getting a good amount of vitamins and protein.
So, let’s dive in and break down the Lunds Wild Rice Soup with Chicken Recipe in all its glory.
Lunds Wild Rice Soup With Chicken Recipe
This recipe has been cherished for its balance of flavors and texture. It’s creamy, but not too rich, and the wild rice adds a delightful chewiness that complements the tender chicken perfectly. If you haven’t yet had the chance to make it at home, you’re in for a treat!
The combination of wild rice, chicken, and vegetables in a flavorful broth makes this soup an ideal meal on cold days or a comforting dish after a long day at work. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make and can be modified depending on your preferences or dietary restrictions.
Ingredients Needed
Here’s a list of everything you’ll need to create this creamy, hearty soup:
- Wild Rice: Wild rice is the star of this soup. Its nutty flavor and chewy texture elevate the entire dish.
- Chicken Breasts or Thighs: Chicken provides the protein and heartiness that pairs perfectly with the wild rice.
- Carrots: Adds a slight sweetness and a vibrant pop of color to the soup.
- Celery: A classic addition to any soup for flavor and crunch.
- Onion: For savory depth and a touch of sweetness.
- Garlic: A few cloves of garlic give the soup that aromatic, savory base.
- Butter: Used for sautéing the veggies, giving them a rich, buttery flavor.
- Chicken Broth: The foundation of the soup. It adds depth and warmth to the dish.
- Heavy Cream: For that velvety, smooth texture that makes the soup so comforting.
- Flour: To create a roux, which will thicken the soup and add to its creamy consistency.
- Bay Leaves: Add a subtle herbal flavor that enhances the broth.
- Thyme: A sprig of thyme lends an earthy, aromatic quality to the soup.
- Salt and Pepper: For seasoning, of course!
- Parsley (optional): Chopped parsley for garnish adds a fresh, herby finish.
Cooking Instructions
Now, let’s get cooking! Here’s a step-by-step guide to making Lunds Wild Rice Soup with Chicken:
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Prepare The Wild Rice
- Start by rinsing the wild rice thoroughly under cold water to remove any debris.
- In a medium saucepan, bring about 4 cups of water to a boil. Add the wild rice, reduce the heat, and simmer for about 40-45 minutes until the rice is tender and the grains begin to split. Drain and set aside.
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Cook The Chicken
- While the rice is cooking, heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add a tablespoon of olive oil or butter.
- Season the chicken breasts or thighs with salt and pepper, then cook for 6-7 minutes per side until browned and cooked through. Remove from the pot and set aside to rest.
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Sauté The Veggies
- In the same pot, add a bit more butter (if needed) and sauté the onion, carrots, and celery for about 5-7 minutes until softened.
- Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Make The Roux
- Sprinkle the flour over the softened vegetables and stir to coat. Let this cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
- Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, ensuring there are no lumps. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer.
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Add The Cream And Seasonings
- Pour in the heavy cream, and add the bay leaves, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine. Let the soup simmer gently for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
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Shred The Chicken
- While the soup simmers, shred the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces. You can use two forks or your hands.
- Add the shredded chicken and cooked wild rice to the pot, and stir everything together.
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Simmer And Adjust
- Let the soup simmer for another 10-15 minutes, allowing the wild rice to soften even more and the soup to thicken to your desired consistency.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
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Garnish And Serve
- Remove the bay leaves and thyme sprigs.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
Ingredient Insights
Let’s dive deeper into some of the key ingredients in this recipe:
- Wild Rice: While technically a grass rather than a true rice, wild rice has a complex flavor and a chewy texture that’s much different from white or brown rice. It’s also a great source of antioxidants, fiber, and protein. Plus, it’s a fantastic option for gluten-free diets.
- Heavy Cream: Heavy cream brings a richness to this soup that makes it so indulgent. It also balances out the earthy, slightly nutty flavor of the wild rice and the savory chicken. If you’re looking to make it a little lighter, you can substitute with half-and-half or milk, but the texture won’t be as luxurious.
- Chicken Broth: Using a high-quality chicken broth is key. It forms the base of the soup, so choosing one that’s flavorful will elevate the dish. Homemade stock is always the best option, but store-bought broth can do the job if you’re short on time.
Expert Tips
- For the Best Texture: Let the soup simmer a little longer than you think. Wild rice tends to get better the longer it sits in the broth, absorbing the flavors and becoming softer without losing its bite.
- Shred the Chicken While It’s Warm: This will make it easier to shred, and the warm chicken will meld more seamlessly into the soup, ensuring the flavors are consistent.
- Adjust the Consistency: If the soup is too thick, simply add more chicken broth or a splash of milk. If it’s too thin, let it simmer for a bit longer to reduce and thicken naturally.
- Flavor Boosters: A squeeze of lemon juice or a splash of white wine can add a refreshing contrast to the creamy soup and balance out the richness.
- Make It Ahead: This soup stores beautifully and can be made in advance. In fact, it often tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had time to meld.
Recipe Variations
You can customize this Wild Rice Soup with Chicken to suit your preferences or dietary needs:
- Vegetarian Version: Skip the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add more vegetables, like mushrooms or peas, to make it heartier.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to bring some heat to the soup.
- Low-Carb: Use cauliflower rice instead of wild rice for a low-carb, keto-friendly version of the soup.
- Dairy-Free: Replace the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative.
Final Words
This Lunds Wild Rice Soup with Chicken is the epitome of cozy comfort food. The combination of wild rice, tender chicken, and a creamy broth makes it satisfying and nourishing, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, looking for a hearty lunch, or craving a warming dinner, this soup has got you covered.
It’s easy to make, but with its depth of flavor and heartiness, it feels like a dish that’s been cooked with love and care for hours. Plus, it’s endlessly customizable, so you can make it your own depending on what’s in your pantry or your dietary preferences.
FAQs
What Are The Main Ingredients In Lunds Wild Rice Soup With Chicken?
The main ingredients for Lunds Wild Rice Soup with Chicken include wild rice, chicken breast or thighs, chicken broth, carrots, celery, onions, garlic, heavy cream, butter, thyme, salt, pepper, and flour for thickening.
Can I Use Leftover Chicken For Lunds Wild Rice Soup?
Yes, using leftover cooked chicken is a great option for Lunds Wild Rice Soup. It saves time and adds flavor. Simply shred or chop the chicken and add it during the final steps of cooking.
How Long Does It Take To Cook Wild Rice For The Soup?
Wild rice typically takes about 45 to 60 minutes to cook, depending on the type and brand. It should be cooked separately before adding it to the soup, unless you’re cooking it directly in the soup, which may take longer.
Can I Make This Soup Dairy-free?
Yes, you can make Lunds Wild Rice Soup with Chicken dairy-free by substituting heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative. You can also replace butter with olive oil or another plant-based oil.
How Do I Make The Soup Thicker?
To thicken the soup, you can either use a flour roux (flour and butter mixture), cornstarch, or blend part of the soup using an immersion blender. The addition of heavy cream will also help create a thicker, creamier texture.
What Kind Of Chicken Should I Use For The Recipe?
For Lunds Wild Rice Soup with Chicken, boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs are ideal. Thighs tend to add more flavor and moisture, but breasts work well too. The chicken should be cooked and shredded or cubed before adding to the soup.
Can I Freeze Lunds Wild Rice Soup With Chicken?
Yes, you can freeze the soup. However, the wild rice might absorb liquid and become softer upon reheating. To maintain the texture, you can freeze the soup without the rice and add freshly cooked rice when you reheat it.
What Can I Serve With Lunds Wild Rice Soup With Chicken?
Lunds Wild Rice Soup pairs well with a variety of sides such as a crusty bread, a fresh green salad, or crackers. You can also serve it with a simple garlic bread or a light sandwich for a fuller meal.
Can I Add Other Vegetables To The Soup?
Yes, you can add other vegetables like parsnips, leeks, or potatoes to the soup for more flavor and texture. Just be sure to chop them into small pieces to cook evenly with the other ingredients.
Is There A Way To Make Lunds Wild Rice Soup Spicier?
If you prefer a spicier version of Lunds Wild Rice Soup, you can add crushed red pepper flakes, a dash of hot sauce, or even some finely chopped jalapeños to the soup base. Adjust to your desired level of heat.