Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup

Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup

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Serving

Ingradients

For the Soup:
  • 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 stalks celery, diced
  • 1 carrot, diced
  • 1 cup uncooked wild rice blend (or wild rice and brown rice mix)
  • 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for lighter version)
  • 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie or grilled)
  • 1 cup heavy cream or whole milk (or coconut milk for dairy-free)
  • 1 tbsp all-purpose flour or cornstarch (to thicken, optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • ½ tsp dried thyme or rosemary (optional)
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Directions

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

  • In a large pot, heat oil or butter over medium heat.
  • Add onion, garlic, celery, and carrot. Cook for 5–7 minutes until softened.

Step 2: Cook the Rice

  • Stir in wild rice and cook for 1–2 minutes to toast slightly.
  • Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 40–45 minutes or until rice is tender.

Step 3: Add Chicken & Cream

  • Stir in shredded chicken and cream or milk. If using flour to thicken, mix flour with a little cold water and add to the soup.
  • Cook for 10 more minutes until heated through. Do not boil after adding cream.

Step 4: Season & Garnish

  • Season with salt, pepper, and herbs.
  • Stir in fresh parsley before serving.

Step 5: Serve

  • Serve warm in bowls, optionally with crusty bread or crackers.

Pros:

  • High in Protein: Chicken and rice offer a balanced protein source.
  • Hearty & Satisfying: Perfect comfort food for cold weather or post-illness recovery.
  • Rich in B-Vitamins: Supports energy and nerve function.
  • Great for Meal Prep: Keeps well in the fridge for 3–4 days or freezer for up to 3 months.
  • Nourishing & Warming: Ideal for seniors or those recovering from illness.

Cons:

  • High in Saturated Fat: From cream and butter—may not suit heart-healthy diets.
  • High in Sodium: Broth and seasoning can raise salt levels.
  • May Be Too Thick for Some Palates: Especially for seniors with swallowing issues.
  • Contains Allergens: Contains dairy unless substituted.
  • Time-Intensive Rice Cooking: Wild rice takes longer to cook than regular rice.

Suitable for Aged People?

Yes, this Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup is generally suitable for aged individuals due to:

  • Soft Texture , making it easy to chew and swallow.
  • High in Protein & Iron , supporting muscle and blood health.
  • Warming & Hydrating , ideal for seniors during cold weather or illness.
  • Mild Flavor , often appealing to those with reduced taste sensitivity.

However:

  • Heart Health Considerations: Should be consumed in moderation by those watching saturated fat or sodium.
  • Digestive Sensitivity: Wild rice may be harder to digest for some seniors.
  • Dental Issues: Thick or creamy texture is generally easy to eat, but can be blended for softer versions.

Tip: Use low-fat milk instead of cream and rinse rice well to reduce starch for easier digestion.

Who Should Avoid This Recipe?

This recipe may not be suitable for:

  1. People with Heart Disease: Due to saturated fat and cholesterol from cream.
  2. Hypertensive Individuals: High sodium from broth and seasoning.
  3. Lactose Intolerant Individuals: Contains cream/milk unless substituted.
  4. Those on Low-Protein Diets (e.g., kidney disease): High in animal protein unless modified.
  5. Individuals with Oral or Swallowing Issues (Dysphagia): May need texture modification for safer eating.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Nutrient
Amount
% Daily Value
Calories
300
Total Fat
12g
15%
Saturated Fat
6g
30%
Cholesterol
50mg
17%
Sodium
600mg
26%
Total Carbohydrate
22g
8%
Dietary Fiber
2g
7%
Total Sugars
2g
Protein
24g
48%
Vitamin A
300 IU
6%
Vitamin C
5mg
6%
Calcium
60mg
5%
Iron
1.5mg
8%
Potassium
350mg
10%