As the leaves crunch underfoot and the air turns crisp, my kitchen transforms into a sanctuary of warmth and comfort, all thanks to the creamy Autumn Wild Rice Soup. This hearty dish combines the nutty essence of wild rice with tender vegetables, crafting a cozy feast that feels like a hug on a chilly evening. Not only is this soup incredibly versatile—perfect for using leftover chicken or accommodating vegetarian preferences—but it also boasts a creamy texture that makes it irresistibly satisfying. As the aroma envelops the room, I can’t help but wonder: what warm memories or savory experiments will this bowl inspire in your home?

Why is Autumn Wild Rice Soup so comforting?

Comforting as a warm hug: This Autumn Wild Rice Soup wraps you in a blanket of creamy goodness, making it the ideal dish for chilly nights. Nutty flavor from wild rice gives depth, while tender vegetables add essential nutrients. Easily customizable, you can adjust ingredients to suit your dietary needs, whether you prefer chicken or a vegetarian twist. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up leftovers, giving you a delicious meal without any waste! Serve it with a crusty loaf of bread or alongside a fresh green salad for a complete experience that’ll leave you craving more.

Autumn Wild Rice Soup Ingredients

For the Soup Base

Wild Rice – Adds nutty flavor and chewy texture; rinse before cooking to avoid excess starch.
Chicken Broth – Provides a savory base; low sodium is preferred for better control over saltiness.
Olive Oil – Used for sautéing vegetables, enhancing flavors beautifully.
Onion – Builds an aromatic foundation essential for sweetness and depth.
Carrots – Introduces natural sweetness and vibrant color.
Celery – Adds a lovely crunch and flavor contrast.
Cremini Mushrooms – Contribute umami richness and texture; can substitute with other mushrooms if desired.
Garlic – Enhances overall flavor; fresh is best for maximum potency.

For the Seasoning

Dried Thyme, Sage, Rosemary – These herbs deepen the herbaceous profile; fresh herbs may be substituted but adjust quantities accordingly.
Red Pepper Flakes (optional) – Adds a hint of spice for those who enjoy a little heat.

For the Protein and Creaminess

Cooked Chicken (shredded) – Provides protein and heartiness; rotisserie chicken is perfect for convenience.
Heavy Cream (or coconut milk) – Brings richness and creaminess to the soup; coconut milk makes it dairy-free.

For Garnishing

Fresh Parsley – Brightens the soup’s flavors and adds a fresh touch as a garnish.
Salt and Pepper – Essential for balancing seasoning to taste.
Dry Sherry (optional) – Enhances flavor depth; can be omitted if preferred.
Toasted Pecans or Walnuts – Adds delightful crunch and additional flavor as a garnish.

This comforting Autumn Wild Rice Soup is not just a dish; it’s a heartfelt experience waiting to be shared around your family table!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Autumn Wild Rice Soup

Step 1: Cook the Wild Rice
In a medium-sized pot, combine 1 cup of rinsed wild rice with 4 cups of chicken broth. Bring to a gentle boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat and cover, letting it simmer for 45-50 minutes. The wild rice should be tender and chewy; drain any excess liquid and set it aside while you prepare the soup base.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large stockpot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 diced onion, 2 chopped carrots, and 2 chopped celery stalks, sautéing for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant. Next, stir in 8 ounces of sliced cremini mushrooms and continue cooking until they’re tender, about 3-4 minutes. Finish this step by adding 3 minced garlic cloves along with 1 teaspoon each of dried thyme, sage, and rosemary for an aromatic boost.

Step 3: Simmer the Soup
Pour in the remaining 4 cups of chicken broth along with the cooked wild rice and 2 cups of shredded cooked chicken to the sautéed vegetables in the pot. Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then cover and let it cook for 30-60 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows all the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a comforting Autumn Wild Rice Soup.

Step 4: Finishing Touches
After the soup has simmered, stir in 1 cup of heavy cream (or coconut milk for a dairy-free option) and ½ cup of dry sherry if desired. Gently mix in ¼ cup of chopped fresh parsley and season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow the soup to heat through on low for about 5-7 minutes, ensuring it doesn’t boil, while blending the creamy richness into the soup.

Step 5: Serving
Ladle the warm, comforting Autumn Wild Rice Soup into bowls, garnishing each serving with toasted pecans or walnuts for an added crunch. For an extra touch of flavor, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese if using. Serve immediately to enjoy this nourishing dish that’s perfect for chilly evenings!

What to Serve with Creamy Autumn Wild Rice Soup

As the aroma of warmth and comfort wafts through your kitchen, consider these delicious pairings to make your meal even more delightful.

Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping, a warm baguette adds texture and heartiness, soaking up the creamy soup beautifully.
Simple Green Salad: A light salad with tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup, refreshing your palate with every bite.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their crispy edges and earthy flavor create a delightful contrast against the creamy base of the soup, enhancing each mouthful.
Apple Cider: A warm spiced apple cider will complement the flavors perfectly, bringing a touch of seasonal sweetness to your meal.
Garlic Herb Breadsticks: Soft and flavorful, these breadsticks are ideal for sopping up every last bit of the Autumn Wild Rice Soup.
Stuffed Acorn Squash: This dish layers fall flavors, adding a sweetness that pairs well with the earthy tones of the soup.
Pumpkin Pie: For dessert, a slice of pumpkin pie rounds off the meal with a hint of sweetness and nostalgia, making it a perfect fall treat.

Make Ahead Options

These Autumn Wild Rice Soup preparations are perfect for busy weeknights, giving you a hearty meal with minimal last-minute effort! You can cook the wild rice and sauté the vegetables up to 24 hours in advance; simply store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. For optimal flavor preservation, refrigerate the broth and cooked chicken separately as well. When you’re ready to serve, combine the prepped ingredients in a large pot, add the remaining broth, and simmer gently for about 30 minutes. Stir in the cream and seasonings right before serving, ensuring this creamy soup remains just as delicious and comforting. Enjoy a warm, homemade meal without fuss!

Autumn Wild Rice Soup Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine with these delightful twists on the comforting Autumn Wild Rice Soup!

Vegetarian Delight: Swap chicken broth for vegetable broth and eliminate chicken. Adding cannellini beans will boost protein and texture.
Flavorful Squash: Incorporate cubes of sweet potatoes or butternut squash for a natural sweetness that complements the earthiness of the rice.
Spicy Kick: For heat lovers, elevate the spice level with extra red pepper flakes or add in some diced jalapeños for a vibrant, zesty touch.
Grain Swap: Replace wild rice with quinoa or barley for unique flavors and textures that keep the soup exciting.
Creamy Alternative: Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream for a luscious dairy-free version that maintains the creamy goodness.
Herb Infusion: Feel free to mix in fresh herbs like dill or basil to introduce a new aromatic profile that enhances the soup experience.
Nutty Garnish: Instead of pecans or walnuts, try hazelnuts or almonds as a garnish, adding a delightful crunch and flavor twist.
Citrus Brightness: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving can elevate the soup with a zesty brightness that perfectly balances the richness.

If you’re looking for more comforting dishes, don’t miss out on my Smothered Chicken Rice or warm up with a comforting bowl of Chicken Noodle Soup. Each recipe brings its own flavor and warmth, perfect for sharing around the family table!

Expert Tips for Autumn Wild Rice Soup

Rinse the Rice: Rinsing wild rice helps remove excess starch, preventing a gummy soup texture. Always wash it before cooking!
Sauté Slowly: Take your time when sautéing vegetables to develop a rich, caramelized flavor. Rushing can lead to blandness.
Season After Cream: Add salt and pepper after incorporating the cream for a balanced flavor that highlights the dreamy creaminess of the Autumn Wild Rice Soup.
Adjust Thickness as Needed: If the soup isn’t as thick as you desire, blend a portion to create a smoother consistency before adding the cream.
Fresh Herbs Matter: Using fresh herbs will enhance the flavor profile significantly; if using dried, adjust the quantity for maximum impact.

How to Store and Freeze Autumn Wild Rice Soup

Refrigerator: Store the soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully while keeping it fresh.

Freezer: Freeze the soup in individual portions or a larger container for up to 2 months. Ensure it’s cooled before freezing to maintain quality.

Thawing: Thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. This helps preserve its creamy texture and flavor.

Reheating: Gently reheat the Autumn Wild Rice Soup on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Add a splash of broth or cream if it appears too thick.

Autumn Wild Rice Soup Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best wild rice?
Absolutely! When choosing wild rice, look for grains that are long and slender, which indicates quality. You want your wild rice to be dark with a slightly glossy appearance. Avoid any packages that have broken grains or excessive dust, as this can indicate that the rice is old or inferior.

How should I store autumn wild rice soup?
Very simply! Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing it up to retain its creamy texture. If you want to enjoy it longer, consider freezing it for up to 2 months. Just remember to label your containers with the date!

Can I freeze autumn wild rice soup?
You absolutely can! To freeze, let the soup cool down to room temperature. Then spoon it into freezer-safe, airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Make sure to leave a little space at the top, as the soup will expand when frozen. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, transfer the soup to the refrigerator to thaw overnight.

What should I do if my soup is too thick?
If your Autumn Wild Rice Soup turns out thicker than you’d like, don’t fret! Simply add a bit of chicken broth or water; do this gradually until you reach your desired consistency. Heat it gently on the stove while stirring until mixed well. Remember to taste and adjust the seasoning after adding more liquid!

Is this soup suitable for dairy-free diets?
Absolutely! You can easily make this Autumn Wild Rice Soup dairy-free by substituting heavy cream with coconut milk or a non-dairy cream alternative. This not only keeps the soup creamy but also infuses it with a hint of sweetness that complements the dish beautifully. Wonderful options, like almond milk or cashew cream, can also work nicely.

Is this soup safe for pets?
It’s always best to double-check! While many of the ingredients in Autumn Wild Rice Soup are safe for pets, such as carrots and chicken, the seasonings (like onions and garlic) can be toxic to them in large amounts. If you’re considering sharing, I recommend serving them plain rice or plain cooked chicken without any seasonings instead. Always consult with your veterinarian for specific dietary advice for your furry friends!

Cozy Up with This Creamy Autumn Wild Rice Soup Recipe

Enjoy a comforting bowl of Autumn Wild Rice Soup, perfect for chilly evenings with its creamy texture and nutty flavor.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20

Cook Time 2

Total Time 2 20

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Soup

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

1 cup wild rice rinsed before cooking
4 cups chicken broth low sodium preferred
2 tablespoons olive oil for sautéing
1 medium onion diced
2 medium carrots chopped
2 stalks celery chopped
8 ounces cremini mushrooms sliced
3 cloves garlic minced

For the Seasoning

1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried sage
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional

For the Protein and Creaminess

2 cups cooked chicken shredded, rotisserie chicken is perfect
1 cup heavy cream or coconut milk for dairy-free

For Garnishing

¼ cup fresh parsley chopped
salt to taste
pepper to taste
½ cup dry sherry optional
¼ cup toasted pecans or walnuts for crunch

Equipment

Medium-Sized Pot
large stockpot
cutting board
Knife

Method

Step-by-Step Instructions

In a medium-sized pot, combine 1 cup of rinsed wild rice with 4 cups of chicken broth. Bring to a gentle boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat and cover, letting it simmer for 45-50 minutes. Drain any excess liquid and set it aside.
In a large stockpot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 diced onion, 2 chopped carrots, and 2 chopped celery stalks, sautéing for about 5-7 minutes until softened. Stir in 8 ounces of sliced cremini mushrooms and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes. Add 3 minced garlic cloves and 1 teaspoon each of dried thyme, sage, and rosemary.
Pour in the remaining 4 cups of chicken broth along with the cooked wild rice and 2 cups of shredded cooked chicken to the sautéed vegetables. Bring to a gentle simmer, cover, and cook for 30-60 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream (or coconut milk) and ½ cup of dry sherry if desired. Mix in ¼ cup of fresh parsley and season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat through on low for about 5-7 minutes.
Ladle the warm soup into bowls, garnishing with toasted pecans or walnuts. Serve immediately.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 22gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 4gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 600IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Rinsing wild rice helps remove excess starch for a better texture. Sautéing vegetables slowly enhances flavor. Adjust seasoning after adding cream for best taste.

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