As I stirred the pot, a comforting aroma wafted through my kitchen, wrapping around me like a cozy blanket. This Creamy Autumn Wild Rice Soup is a delightful way to celebrate the season’s bounty, featuring the chewy texture of wild rice combined with tender vegetables and a rich, creamy broth. Perfect for chilly days, this nourishing soup is not just hearty but also customizable, allowing you to adapt it to whatever you have on hand. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a crowd-pleasing dish to share with friends, this recipe checks all the boxes and makes the kitchen feel like home. Curious about the delicious twists this soup can take? Let’s dive into the details!

Why is Autumn Wild Rice Soup a must-try?

Warmth and Comfort: This soup is like a hug in a bowl, perfect for chilly evenings when you need something cozy.
Hearty and Nutritious: Packed with protein from chicken and nutrients from veggies, it’s a guilt-free indulgence.
Endless Customization: Easily swap ingredients, like using lentils for a vegetarian version or adding seasonal veggies like butternut squash to mix things up.
Flavorful and Satisfying: The rich broth, combined with aromatic herbs, creates an explosion of taste with every spoonful.
Quick and Easy: With simple steps, you can whip up this delicious meal in no time, leaving more time for relaxation.
Perfect Pairing: Pair it with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal, just like our Tomato Soup Cheddar entices with its own flavors!

Autumn Wild Rice Soup Ingredients

For the Soup Base
• Wild Rice – A chewy base grain that brings an earthy flavor; rinse thoroughly before cooking to remove excess starch.
• Chicken Broth – Adds depth and hydration; low-sodium options are best for controlling saltiness.
• Olive Oil – Perfect for sautéing; you can swap it with butter if you crave a richer flavor.

For the Vegetables
• Onion – Introduces sweetness and aroma; shallots are a great substitute for a milder taste.
• Carrots – Bring natural sweetness and vibrant color; try parsnips for a unique flavor twist.
• Celery – Provides a refreshing crunch; omit it if you don’t have any on hand.
• Cremini Mushrooms – Adds a rich umami essence; white button mushrooms can work as a substitute.
• Garlic – Enhances the flavor with aromatic notes; feel free to double the amount for more intensity.

For the Seasoning
• Dried Thyme – A lovely herbal note; fresh thyme can be used if you adjust the quantity to taste.
• Dried Sage – Offers warm, earthy flavor; swap it out for rosemary or oregano if you lack sage.
• Dried Rosemary – Provides aromatic sweetness; use sparingly to prevent overpowering the dish.
• Red Pepper Flakes – An optional kick of spice; leave them out for a milder soup.

For the Creamy Texture
• Dry White Wine – Helps deglaze the pot and enriches flavor; use additional broth for a non-alcoholic version.
• Cooked Chicken – Adds heartiness and protein; feel free to omit for a vegetarian option.
• Heavy Cream – Provides richness and creaminess; look to coconut milk as a dairy-free alternative.

For Garnishing
• Fresh Parsley – A bright garnish that adds freshness; chives can be a lovely substitute.
• Salt and Pepper – Essential for enhancing flavors; adjust to your preference.
• Toasted Pecans/Walnuts – Optional for a crunchy texture; almonds can be used for a twist.
• Shredded Parmesan Cheese – Optional for salty depth; omit for a dairy-free version.

This Autumn Wild Rice Soup is not just nourishing but also lends itself generously to customization, making it a delightful dish that warms both the heart and soul. Enjoy crafting your version of this cozy classic!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Autumn Wild Rice Soup

Step 1: Rinse the Wild Rice
Begin by rinsing 1 cup of wild rice under cold water in a fine-mesh strainer until the water runs clear. This step removes excess starch, ensuring a better texture in your Creamy Autumn Wild Rice Soup. Rinsing only takes a couple of minutes but makes a significant difference in the final dish.

Step 2: Cook the Wild Rice
In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed wild rice with 4 cups of chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has split open, revealing its inner white seed. Drain any excess liquid and set the cooked rice aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 diced onion, 2 diced carrots, and 2 diced celery stalks. Sauté these vegetables for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften and become fragrant. This step builds a flavorful base for your soup that will delight your senses.

Step 4: Add Mushrooms
Next, stir in 8 ounces of sliced cremini mushrooms and continue to sauté for an additional 5 to 7 minutes. The mushrooms should become tender and release their moisture—this adds a rich umami flavor to your Autumn Wild Rice Soup, enhancing its overall depth and deliciousness.

Step 5: Incorporate Garlic and Herbs
Once the mushrooms are softened, add 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, ½ teaspoon of dried sage, ½ teaspoon of dried rosemary, and optional red pepper flakes to the pot. Stir these together for about 1 minute until aromatic, allowing the herbs to infuse their flavors into the soup.

Step 6: Deglaze with Wine
Pour in ½ cup of dry white wine to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits stuck to the bottom. Cook this mixture for 2 to 3 minutes over medium heat until the wine has reduced slightly, creating an even richer base for your Creamy Autumn Wild Rice Soup.

Step 7: Add Remaining Broth
Now, add in the remaining 4 cups of chicken broth. Increase the heat to bring the soup to a simmer. Once simmering, allow the soup to gently bubble for about 10 minutes, letting the flavors meld together beautifully and creating a comforting aroma in your kitchen.

Step 8: Mix in Cooked Wild Rice and Chicken
After simmering, stir in the drained wild rice and 2 cups of cooked, shredded chicken (or omit for a vegetarian version). Mix everything well, so the wild rice and chicken are evenly distributed throughout the soup, enhancing the heartiness of this Autumn Wild Rice Soup.

Step 9: Stir in Cream and Season
Lastly, add 1 cup of heavy cream and season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Stir until the soup is well combined and heated through; let it cook for another 3 to 5 minutes, allowing the cream to thicken the soup and add that luscious richness we all love.

Step 10: Serve with Garnishes
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley, toasted pecans or walnuts, and a sprinkle of shredded Parmesan cheese, if desired. This final touch of freshness and crunch takes your Creamy Autumn Wild Rice Soup to the next level, making each bowl a true delight.

Autumn Wild Rice Soup Variations

Feel free to unleash your creativity and make this soup your own with these exciting variations!

Vegetarian: Omit the chicken and substitute with lentils or white beans for plant-based protein.
Seasonal Spin: Swap in veggies based on what you have—roasted butternut squash or sweet potatoes add lovely sweetness.
Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce to give your soup a spicy kick.
Post-Thanksgiving Treat: Use leftover turkey instead of chicken, or throw in some cubed apples for a delightful autumn twist.
Creamy Alternative: For a lighter version, replace heavy cream with coconut milk; it adds a subtle sweetness and richness.
Nutty Garnish: Try adding sunflower seeds or toasted almonds for a unique crunch on top—great for texture!
Herb Infusion: Give it an herbal upgrade by tossing in fresh dill or basil instead of thyme to change the flavor profile.
Savory Depth: Enhance the umami by adding a splash of soy sauce or tamari for a nice, savory punch.

With every variation, you can create a new masterpiece that brings warmth and joy to your table—just like that comforting bowl of Marry Chicken Soup only has its unique charm!

What to Serve with Creamy Autumn Wild Rice Soup?

Creating a comforting meal doesn’t start and end with the soup; let’s build a delightful dining experience together.

Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping, fresh bread enhances the rich broth while adding a satisfying crunch. Tear off a piece and savor the combination.
Simple Green Salad: A light, refreshing salad with vinaigrette balances the creaminess of the soup, adding a crisp bite with every spoonful. Toss in seasonal greens for a vibrant touch.
Roasted Root Vegetables: Sweet potatoes or carrots, drizzled in olive oil and rosemary, bring out the autumn flavors and add a heartwarming side to your meal.
Apple Crisp: End on a sweet note with a warm apple crisp, whose cinnamon-spiced filling and crumbly topping evoke cozy memories of fall.
Cheesy Garlic Toast: Slathered with garlic butter and melted cheese, it’s an irresistible side that complements each lush bowl of soup beautifully.
Hot Apple Cider: Sip on a mug of spiced apple cider; its warm sweetness and fragrant spices capture the essence of fall, making it a perfect drink pairing.
Toasted Pumpkin Seeds: A crunchy, nutritious garnish can elevate your soup while bringing in seasonal flavors, making every bowl even more delightful.
Soft Cheese Platter: Creamy brie or tangy goat cheese served with fruits like pears creates a wonderful contrast and pairs beautifully alongside your comforting dish.

How to Store and Freeze Autumn Wild Rice Soup

Fridge: Keep the Autumn Wild Rice Soup in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors often deepen as it sits!

Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Make sure to leave some space at the top for expansion.

Reheating: Thaw frozen soup overnight in the fridge. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. Add a splash of broth or cream if it seems too thick.

Airtight Tip: Always ensure soup is fully cooled before sealing it in containers, to prevent condensation that can lead to spoilage.

Expert Tips for Autumn Wild Rice Soup

Cooking the Rice: Ensure you rinse the wild rice thoroughly to remove excess starch. This prevents toughness and helps achieve that delightful chewy texture in your soup.
Season Gradually: Adjust the seasoning a little at a time. Tasting as you go is key to preventing over-salting your Autumn Wild Rice Soup.
Sautéing Spices: For maximum flavor, sauté the herbs and spices briefly before adding liquids. This step enhances their aromatic properties and enriches the overall flavor.
Texture Monitoring: Keep an eye on the simmering time to meld flavors perfectly without overcooking the vegetables. This ensures every bite remains perfectly tender.
Customizing Ingredients: Feel free to swap in seasonal vegetables, omit chicken for a vegetarian option, or even spice things up with a dash of cayenne to customize your Autumn Wild Rice Soup.

Make Ahead Options

This Creamy Autumn Wild Rice Soup is ideal for meal prep, allowing you to streamline weeknight dinners with ease! You can prepare the wild rice up to 3 days in advance and refrigerate it; just ensure it’s fully cooled before storing to maintain its texture. Sauté the vegetables and herbs (steps 3-5) up to 24 hours ahead as well—store them in an airtight container to lock in freshness. When you’re ready to serve, simply simmer the sautéed mix with the broth, add the pre-cooked rice and chicken, stir in the cream, and season to taste. This way, you’ll enjoy a comforting and delicious meal with minimal effort!

Autumn Wild Rice Soup Recipe FAQs

What type of wild rice should I use for this soup?
Absolutely! I recommend using a blend of wild rice for the best texture and flavor. Look for Whole Grain Wild Rice or a mix of wild rice and white rice for extra chewiness. Be sure to rinse it thoroughly to remove excess starch before cooking!

How should I store leftovers of Autumn Wild Rice Soup?
For optimal freshness, store your soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s even better the next day as the flavors meld together beautifully!

Can I freeze Autumn Wild Rice Soup?
Yes! You can freeze this soup for up to 3 months. To do this, let it cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. Leave some headspace at the top since the soup will expand as it freezes. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop.

What if my soup is too thick after reheating?
Not a problem! If your Autumn Wild Rice Soup becomes too thick after freezing or reheating, simply add a splash of chicken broth or cream while stirring. This will help you regain that luscious creamy texture without compromising the flavors.

Is this soup suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
Very! If you’d like a vegetarian or vegan version, simply omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also substitute heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative. Plus, it’s inherently gluten-free!

What can I do if I don’t have all the ingredients?
The more the merrier! Feel free to customize your soup based on what you have. Seasonal vegetables like butternut squash or sweet potatoes make excellent substitutes for carrots, and if you’re out of wild rice, brown rice or quinoa can work in a pinch. Enjoy making it your own!