As the golden hues of autumn blend into the crispness of winter, there’s nothing better than gathering around a warm, hearty bowl of Chicken Wild Rice and Spinach Soup. This recipe is a perfect blend of tender chicken, nutty wild rice, and vibrant fresh spinach, all enveloped in a savory, aromatic broth. It’s a comforting dish that brings families together and celebrates the bounty of the season. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this soup is sure to become a family favorite.

Recipe Summary

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour
  • Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
  • Servings: 6
  • Skill Level: Easy

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 carrots, sliced
  • 2 celery stalks, sliced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 cup wild rice, rinsed
  • 8 cups chicken broth
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 5 ounces fresh spinach leaves
  • Juice of 1 lemon

Instructions

  1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
  2. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  3. Stir in the chicken pieces and cook until they are lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes.
  4. Add the rinsed wild rice to the pot and stir to coat it with the oil and vegetables.
  5. Pour in the chicken broth and add the bay leaves and thyme. Stir well and bring the mixture to a boil.
  6. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 45 minutes, or until the wild rice is tender.
  7. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
  8. Stir in the fresh spinach leaves and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until they are wilted.
  9. Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the lemon juice. Discard the bay leaves before serving.

Helpful Tips

For an extra creamy version, stir in 1 cup of heavy cream or coconut milk before adding the spinach. Substitute brown rice or quinoa for wild rice if preferred. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.

Pairings

Serve with crusty bread or garlic toast. Pair with a crisp green salad and a glass of Chardonnay or a refreshing sparkling water with a lemon wedge.

Conclusion

We hope your family enjoys this hearty Chicken Wild Rice and Spinach Soup as much as ours does! Remember to share your creations using #ZynahzRecipes or tag Zynahz on Instagram. Leave your feedback on our website https://www.zynahz.com/. Don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter for more delicious recipes and follow Zynahz on social media for the latest updates. Happy cooking!