Healthy Crockpot Chicken and Wild Rice Soup
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
Healthy Crockpot Chicken and Wild Rice Soup is a comforting and nutritious meal that's perfect for busy days. Just set it and forget it!
This Healthy Crockpot Chicken and Wild Rice Soup is a family favorite, packed with flavor and wholesome ingredients. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a rich and hearty soup that warms the soul.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Nutritious ingredients that promote wellness
- Easy one-pot meal with minimal cleanup
- Perfect for meal prep or a cozy family dinner
A Wholesome Choice for Your Family
Healthy Crockpot Chicken and Wild Rice Soup is not just a meal; it's a nurturing experience that brings families together. Packed with lean protein from chicken and the nutty flavor of wild rice, this soup provides essential nutrients that support overall health. The combination of vegetables adds a rainbow of vitamins and minerals, ensuring each bowl is as nutritious as it is delicious.
This recipe is an excellent way to introduce more wholesome ingredients into your family's diet without sacrificing flavor. Each component contributes to a balanced meal, making it a perfect choice for those who are health-conscious yet crave comfort food. With this soup, you can feel good knowing you're providing a wholesome, hearty meal that everyone will enjoy.
Convenience at Its Best
One of the standout features of this soup is its convenience. The slow cooker does all the hard work for you, allowing you to enjoy a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Simply prep your ingredients, toss them into the crockpot, and let the magic happen. This is ideal for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you want to relax without the stress of cooking.
Moreover, this recipe is incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the seasonings to suit your taste. Whether you prefer a spicier kick or a creamier texture, the possibilities are endless. The ease of preparation makes it a go-to option for meal prep, ensuring you have wholesome lunches or dinners ready to go throughout the week.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Leftovers from this delicious soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days, making it a practical choice for meal prep. The flavors often deepen and improve after a day or two, making the leftovers just as enjoyable as the freshly made soup. Just be sure to cool it to room temperature before sealing it up for storage.
When it comes to reheating, simply warm individual servings in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. If the soup thickens upon refrigeration, feel free to add a splash of chicken broth or water to reach your desired consistency. This ensures a delightful experience every time you enjoy a bowl of this comforting soup.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup wild rice, rinsed
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
Enjoy the wholesome flavors of this soup!
Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients
Start by dicing the onion, slicing the carrots, and dicing the celery. Mince the garlic and set aside.
Combine Ingredients in the Crockpot
Place the chicken breasts, wild rice, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, chicken broth, thyme, and parsley into the crockpot. Stir to combine.
Cook the Soup
Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.
Finish the Soup
Remove the chicken, shred it with two forks, and return it to the crockpot. Stir in the frozen peas and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve and Enjoy
Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy your healthy meal!
This soup is perfect for leftovers and freezes well!
Perfect Pairings
This Healthy Crockpot Chicken and Wild Rice Soup pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with a fresh green salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette to complement the hearty flavors of the soup. Crusty whole-grain bread or homemade dinner rolls also make excellent accompaniments, perfect for dipping and soaking up all the delicious broth.
For a lighter option, a side of roasted vegetables or steamed greens can enhance the nutritional value of your meal while adding a nice crunch. These pairings not only elevate the dining experience but also contribute to a well-rounded, satisfying meal.
Variations to Try
Feel free to get creative with this soup! Consider adding other ingredients like spinach, kale, or mushrooms for an extra nutritional boost. You can also experiment with different spices such as cumin or paprika to give the soup a unique twist. If you're looking for a creamier texture, a splash of coconut milk or heavy cream can be added at the end of cooking.
For a heartier version, try adding diced potatoes or butternut squash. These ingredients not only enrich the flavor but also enhance the soup's texture, making it even more satisfying. The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability, allowing you to cater it perfectly to your family's preferences.
Health Benefits of Wild Rice
Wild rice is a superfood packed with essential nutrients. It is rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that support a healthy immune system and overall well-being. Additionally, wild rice is lower in calories and higher in protein compared to white rice, making it an excellent choice for those trying to maintain a healthy weight.
Moreover, wild rice has a unique blend of fiber and protein, which helps keep you feeling full longer. This makes it an ideal ingredient for anyone looking to manage their appetite while enjoying a delicious meal. Including wild rice in your diet can contribute to improved digestion and a balanced diet, making this soup not only tasty but also a wise choice for your health.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use brown rice instead of wild rice?
Yes, but the cooking time will need to be adjusted as brown rice typically takes longer to cook.
→ Can I make this soup in advance?
Absolutely! This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free chicken broth, this soup is gluten-free.
→ Can I add other vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like spinach, corn, or bell peppers.
Healthy Crockpot Chicken and Wild Rice Soup
Healthy Crockpot Chicken and Wild Rice Soup is a comforting and nutritious meal that's perfect for busy days. Just set it and forget it!
Created by: Ariana Brooks
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 6 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup wild rice, rinsed
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
Start by dicing the onion, slicing the carrots, and dicing the celery. Mince the garlic and set aside.
Place the chicken breasts, wild rice, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, chicken broth, thyme, and parsley into the crockpot. Stir to combine.
Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.
Remove the chicken, shred it with two forks, and return it to the crockpot. Stir in the frozen peas and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy your healthy meal!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 45g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 30g