Chicken Wild Rice and Kale Soup: A Wholesome Bowl of Comfort
As the seasons change, there’s nothing more comforting than gathering around a warm, hearty soup with your loved ones. This Chicken Wild Rice and Kale Soup is not just a meal; it’s an experience that evokes memories of family dinners and cozy evenings. The combination of tender chicken, nutty wild rice, and vibrant kale creates a bowl brimming with earthy flavors and wholesome goodness. Perfect for a nourishing weeknight dinner or a special weekend lunch, this soup is sure to become a family favorite.
Recipe Summary
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 6
Skill Level: Easy
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 1 cup wild rice
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 carrots, peeled and diced
- 3 stalks celery, diced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 4 cups fresh kale, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, until vegetables are tender.
- Add diced chicken to the pot and cook for another 5 minutes, until the chicken begins to brown.
- Stir in wild rice, dried thyme, and dried rosemary, ensuring everything is well combined.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat and let it simmer for 35-40 minutes, until the rice is tender.
- Stir in the chopped kale and cook for an additional 5 minutes, until the kale is wilted but still vibrant green.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh lemon wedges.
Helpful Tips
- For a creamy version, add a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk in the last step.
- You can use leftover rotisserie chicken to save time; just add it along with the rice.
- If you prefer a thicker soup, reduce the broth to 5 cups and add 1 cup of water as needed.
Storage Instructions
- Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat over medium heat before serving.
- This soup freezes well for up to 2 months. Simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Suggested Pairings
- Pair with a crusty whole-grain bread for a complete meal.
- Serve alongside a fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette.
- A glass of crisp white wine or a refreshing iced tea complements this soup beautifully.
Conclusion
We hope this Chicken Wild Rice and Kale Soup brings warmth and joy to your family meals. Don’t forget to share your culinary creations using #ZynahzRecipes or tag us on Instagram @Zynahz. We love seeing your photos and hearing your feedback! For more delicious recipes and updates, subscribe to our newsletter and follow Zynahz on social media.