Healthy Crockpot Chicken and Wild Rice Soup

Name: Healthy Crockpot Chicken and Wild Rice Soup
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 20 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup wild rice, rinsed; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried rosemary; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups fresh spinach; 1 cup heavy cream (optional)

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

This Healthy Crockpot Chicken and Wild Rice Soup is a comforting and nutritious meal that's easy to prepare. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep!

Created by

Lacey Montgomery

Last updated on 2025-12-28T19:52:12.255Z

This soup is a family favorite, loaded with tender chicken, wholesome wild rice, and fresh vegetables. The slow-cooking method allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it a go-to recipe for cozy evenings.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Packed with protein and nutrients, making it a healthy choice.
The wild rice adds a unique texture and flavor.
Easy to make in a crockpot, perfect for busy days.
Comforting and warming, ideal for chilly evenings.

      

Nutritious Ingredients for a Healthy Lifestyle

This Healthy Crockpot Chicken and Wild Rice Soup features a variety of wholesome ingredients that not only enhance the flavor but also provide essential nutrients. The combination of chicken and wild rice packs a protein punch, making it a satisfying meal that fuels your body. Wild rice is particularly notable for its rich fiber content, which aids in digestion and promotes a feeling of fullness.

In addition to the protein and fiber, the vegetables in this soup—onion, carrots, celery, and spinach—are loaded with vitamins and minerals. Onions contain antioxidants that can help reduce inflammation, while carrots are high in beta-carotene, which is beneficial for eye health. Spinach, being a leafy green, adds a wealth of vitamins A and C, iron, and calcium, making every bowl a powerhouse of nutrition.

Perfect for Meal Prep and Busy Lifestyles

This recipe is designed with convenience in mind, making it an excellent choice for those with busy schedules. Preparing the soup in a crockpot allows you to set it and forget it. Simply combine the ingredients in the morning, and by the time you return home, you’ll have a warm, hearty meal waiting for you. This is especially beneficial on weeknights when everyone is tired and hungry after a long day.

Moreover, this soup is perfect for meal prepping. You can easily double the recipe and store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to five days or freeze them for later use. This not only saves time but also ensures you have a nutritious meal ready to go whenever you need it.

Customization and Variations

One of the best aspects of this Healthy Crockpot Chicken and Wild Rice Soup is its versatility. You can customize it based on your preferences or what you have on hand. For a spicier kick, consider adding a dash of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños. If you're looking to enhance the flavor even further, try incorporating some fresh herbs like parsley or dill just before serving.

Additionally, if you're following a dairy-free diet, you can easily omit the heavy cream or substitute it with coconut milk for a different flavor profile. This flexibility allows you to create a soup that not only meets your dietary needs but also satisfies your taste buds.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Healthy Crockpot Chicken and Wild Rice Soup

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup wild rice, rinsed
1 medium onion, chopped
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups fresh spinach
1 cup heavy cream (optional)

Mix all ingredients in the crockpot for a delicious meal!

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

Chop the onion, carrots, and celery. Rinse the wild rice under cold water.

Combine in Crockpot

Place the chicken breasts, wild rice, chopped vegetables, garlic, chicken broth, thyme, and rosemary in the crockpot. Season with salt and pepper.

Cook the Soup

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

Shred the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the crockpot, shred it with two forks, and return it to the soup.

Add Spinach and Cream

Stir in the spinach and heavy cream (if using). Heat for an additional 10 minutes until the spinach is wilted.

Serve

Enjoy your healthy soup warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Delicious Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Healthy Crockpot Chicken and Wild Rice Soup, consider serving it with a side of crusty whole-grain bread or a fresh salad. A slice of sourdough or a warm baguette can perfectly complement the richness of the soup. For a complete meal, pair it with a simple arugula salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette, which adds a refreshing contrast to the warm, hearty soup.

If you're feeling adventurous, try topping your soup with a sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese or a dollop of Greek yogurt for added creaminess. Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can also add a burst of freshness, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the dish.

Nutritional Benefits of Wild Rice

Wild rice is often hailed as a superfood due to its numerous health benefits. Unlike traditional white rice, wild rice is a whole grain, meaning it retains its nutrient-rich bran and germ layers. This results in a higher content of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, making it an excellent addition to any diet.

Additionally, wild rice is lower in calories than white rice and provides a good source of protein and fiber. This combination helps regulate blood sugar levels, making it a suitable option for those managing diabetes or anyone looking to maintain stable energy levels throughout the day.

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, as long as you use gluten-free chicken broth.

→ Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, it freezes well. Just make sure to leave out the cream until reheating.

→ How can I make this soup dairy-free?

You can omit the heavy cream or substitute it with coconut milk.