Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs the snowflakes dance outside my window, I crave the kind of hug that only a warm bowl of soup can provide. Let me introduce you to my Cozy Wild Rice and Orzo Chicken Soup—a dish that transforms ordinary ingredients into a delightful symphony of comfort. Perfect for chilly winter nights, this hearty soup showcases tender chicken, nutty wild rice, and orzo pasta, all wrapped in a creamy, flavorful embrace. What’s more, it’s wonderfully versatile, easily whipped up in an Instant Pot, slow cooker, or on the stove, making it a breeze for any weeknight dinner. Whether cooking for family or treating yourself, this delicious recipe ticks all the boxes for a satisfying meal that carries the warmth of home. Ready to turn your kitchen into a cozy retreat? Why Is This Soup So Irresistible? Comforting Warmth: Every spoonful offers a delightful embrace, perfect for those chilly winter evenings. Versatile Cooking Methods: Whether you prefer your Instant Pot, slow cooker, or stove, this recipe shines in any cooking style, making it adaptable to your schedule. Rich in Flavor: The fusion of wild rice, tender chicken, and herbs creates a delectable taste experience that you’ll crave time and again. Quick Prep Options: Swap in rotisserie chicken or skip steps with pre-chopped veggies for a meal that’s on the table in a flash. Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: This Cozy Wild Rice and Orzo Chicken Soup is destined to be a family favorite, alongside other comforting options like White Chicken Chili or Honey Butter Chicken. Embrace the joy this dish brings and turn your mealtime into a cozy gathering! Wild Rice and Orzo Chicken Soup Ingredients • Get ready to warm your soul! For the Soup Base Chicken (boneless skinless breasts or thighs) – A hearty main protein; you can swap with rotisserie chicken for a speedier option. Yellow Onion – Adds that essential depth of flavor; shallots can work well if you prefer something milder. Garlic (whole cloves) – Infuses the soup with aromatic notes; feel free to adjust the amount based on your garlic love! Dry Wild Rice Blend – Offers a unique chewiness and nuttiness; if you’re in a pinch, brown rice is a good substitute, just monitor cooking times! Carrots (chopped) – Brings sweetness and vibrant color to your soup; substitute with parsnips for a delightful twist. Chopped Celery – Contributes a refreshing crunch; can be omitted if you’re out. For Seasoning Poultry Seasoning – Delivers a comforting seasoning complexity; a mix of thyme, rosemary, and sage works great if you’re out. Paprika – Enhances flavor and color; consider using smoked paprika for an extra dimension. Kosher Salt and Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste based on your preference or dietary needs. For the Broth and Greens Low-Sodium Chicken Broth – A flavorful liquid base; vegetable broth can be swapped for a vegetarian twist. Fresh Baby Spinach or Kale – Adds a nutritional boost and beautiful color; feel free to use any leafy green you have on hand. For the Pasta and Cream Dry Orzo Pasta – Provides bulk to your comforting soup; substitute with another small pasta shape or rice if needed. Chopped Fresh Parsley – Offers a burst of freshness; you can skip it or switch to cilantro for a different flavor profile. Heavy Cream or Whole Milk – Brings creaminess to the dish; dairy alternatives make for a lighter version! For Cooking and Finishing Touches Salted Butter – Helps brown the garlic and sage, adding depth; margarine works as a suitable alternative if necessary. Fresh Sage Leaves – Imparts aromatic flavor; just use less if you opt for dried sage instead. Gather these essential ingredients, and you’re all set to make the irresistible Wild Rice and Orzo Chicken Soup! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Wild Rice and Orzo Chicken Soup Step 1: Prepare the Base Start by gathering a large pot or Instant Pot. Add boneless chicken, chopped onion, whole garlic cloves, dry wild rice, carrots, chopped celery, poultry seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Pour in low-sodium chicken broth and an additional ½ cup of water. If using the Instant Pot, secure the lid and set to cook on high pressure for 12 minutes. Step 2: Release and Shred Once the cooking time is up, carefully perform a quick release of the steam for your Instant Pot. Remove the lid and take out the garlic cloves. Shred the chicken directly in the pot using two forks. Stir in fresh baby spinach and dry orzo pasta, then switch the cooker to sauté mode. Cook this mixture for 6 to 8 minutes until the orzo is al dente and the spinach has wilted. Step 3: Finish the Soup Pour in heavy cream or whole milk, mixing thoroughly to add creaminess to your Wild Rice and Orzo Chicken Soup. Adjust the liquid as necessary, ensuring it retains a soupy consistency. For added flavor, prepare sage butter by melting salted butter in a separate pan and browning it with a few garlic cloves and fresh sage leaves until fragrant. Step 4: Serve and Enjoy Once your soup is ready and infused with the flavors of the sage butter, ladle it into bowls. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Pair your Wild Rice and Orzo Chicken Soup with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete and wholesome meal, perfect for those chilly evenings. Expert Tips for Wild Rice and Orzo Chicken Soup Cooking Time Awareness: Keep an eye on the cooking times for wild rice, especially with traditional methods, to ensure a perfect texture without overcooking. Broth Balance: When reheating leftovers, it’s a good idea to add more broth to maintain the soup’s desired soupy consistency; this prevents it from becoming too thick. Flavor Substitutions: Don’t hesitate to swap ingredients based on availability; for example, using quinoa instead of wild rice can yield a gluten-free version of this comforting soup. Vegetable Variations: Get creative with your veggies! You can include zucchini or bell peppers to customize the flavor profile of your Wild Rice and Orzo Chicken Soup to suit your taste. Herb Enhancements: Fresh herbs can elevate the dish; adding a generous handful of fresh parsley or cilantro right before serving enhances freshness and aroma. Make Ahead Options These Cozy Wild Rice and Orzo Chicken Soup preparations are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during hectic weeknights! You can chop your vegetables (onion, carrots, and celery) and even cook your wild rice up to 24 hours ahead; just refrigerate them in airtight containers. Additionally, you can cook the soup base (excluding the orzo and cream) up to 3 days in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. When it’s time to serve, simply reheat your soup on the stovetop and stir in the orzo pasta and cream. This way, you maintain the rich, comforting taste while cutting down on meal prep time! What to Serve with Cozy Wild Rice and Orzo Chicken Soup Cozy up your dinner table with perfect pairings that transform your soup into a complete meal experience. Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty baguette is perfect for dipping and soaking up every delicious drop of your soup’s creamy broth. Green Salad: Brighten your meal with a fresh salad mixed with crunchy greens, delightful herbs, and a tangy vinaigrette that complements the richness of the soup. Garlic Butter Toast: Spread garlic butter on toasted bread for a savory crunch that pairs wonderfully with the hearty flavors of the Wild Rice and Orzo Chicken Soup. Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized carrots, Brussels sprouts, or root veggies lend sweet depth and a medley of textures that enhance the overall dining experience. Cheesy Biscuits: Fluffy, buttery biscuits with gooey cheese make for a dreamy side that is perfect for sopping up your comforting soup. Sparkling Water: A refreshing sparkling water, possibly with a squeeze of lemon or lime, cuts the richness of the soup and cleanses the palate beautifully. Apple Crisp: Warm apple crisp topped with ice cream is a sweet finish that invites homey familiarity, rounding out your comforting meal nicely. Embrace these flavorful companions and make your Cozy Wild Rice and Orzo Chicken Soup truly shine at the dinner table! Wild Rice and Orzo Chicken Soup Variations Feel free to customize your Cozy Wild Rice and Orzo Chicken Soup to suit your taste buds and dietary needs! Quinoa Swap: Replace wild rice with quinoa for a gluten-free twist that cooks up quickly and adds a delightful texture. Add Zucchini: Toss in some chopped zucchini for a burst of color and fresh flavor, providing crunch while complementing the soup beautifully. Vegetarian Delight: Substitute chicken with canned beans or lentils for a hearty vegetarian option that won’t skimp on satisfaction. Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh thyme and rosemary instead of poultry seasoning for an aromatic boost that elevates each spoonful. Spice It Up: For a little kick, add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to infuse some heat, creating a surprising flavor contrast. Creamy Alternative: Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter, dairy-free version while still keeping that luscious creaminess. Mushroom Medley: Sauté some mushrooms before adding them to the soup for an earthy depth that complements the dish beautifully. Pasta Variety: Swap the orzo for small shells or bowtie pasta to change up the texture and shape, creating a fun twist the family will love. Incorporate these variations for a fresh take each time you make your Wild Rice and Orzo Chicken Soup, and don’t forget to savor the delightful flavors in every bowl! If you’re looking for more comforting dishes, try out my Honey Butter Chicken or White Chicken Chili! How to Store and Freeze Wild Rice and Orzo Chicken Soup Fridge: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Add extra broth when reheating to maintain that delightful soupy texture. Freezer: Portion out cooled soup into freezer-safe bags or containers, and freeze for up to 3 months. Label containers with the date for easy tracking. Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge, or reheat directly from frozen on the stove or in the microwave. Add a splash of broth to restore creaminess as it heats. Room Temperature: It’s best to avoid leaving this soup out at room temperature for more than 2 hours, ensuring food safety. Wild Rice and Orzo Chicken Soup Recipe FAQs What kind of chicken should I use for the soup? You can use boneless skinless breasts or thighs for a hearty protein. If you’re short on time, rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut—just shred it and add it towards the end of cooking! How should I store the leftover Wild Rice and Orzo Chicken Soup? Store your leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. For best quality, reheat with a splash of chicken broth to regain that delicious soupy texture. Can I freeze Wild Rice and Orzo Chicken Soup? Absolutely! Once cooled, portion the soup into freezer-safe bags or containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Don’t forget to label the containers with the date! When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator or reheat directly from frozen. What if my soup is too thick after reheating? If you find your soup has thickened too much during storage, just add a bit of chicken broth or water while reheating to return it to a creamy, soupy consistency. Stir well to combine, and it should be just right in no time! Is this soup gluten-free? Yes, if you use gluten-free orzo, this soup can easily be made gluten-free. Be sure to check the labels on your broth and any other packaged ingredients as well. How can I change up the vegetables in the soup? Feel free to switch things up! You can add zucchini or bell peppers for a different flavor. Just remember to adjust cooking times accordingly for any additional ingredients you include! Wild Rice and Orzo Chicken Soup Recipe FAQs Warm Up with Wild Rice and Orzo Chicken Soup Bliss Warm up with a cozy bowl of Wild Rice and Orzo Chicken Soup, a delightful blend of chicken, wild rice, and orzo pasta. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 45 minutes mins Servings: 6 bowlsCourse: SoupCuisine: AmericanCalories: 400 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Soup Base1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs Can substitute with rotisserie chicken for a quicker option.1 medium yellow onion Shallots can work well if preferred.4 cloves garlic Feel free to adjust to taste.1 cup dry wild rice blend Brown rice can be substituted.2 medium carrots Can substitute with parsnips.1 cup chopped celery Can omit if necessary.For Seasoning1 tablespoon poultry seasoning Mix of thyme, rosemary, and sage can work.1 teaspoon paprika Consider using smoked paprika for added flavor.1 teaspoon kosher salt Adjust to taste.1 teaspoon black pepper Adjust to taste.For the Broth and Greens4 cups low-sodium chicken broth Vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian option.4 cups fresh baby spinach or kale Any leafy green can work.For the Pasta and Cream1 cup dry orzo pasta Substitute with another small pasta shape if needed.1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley Can substitute with cilantro.1 cup heavy cream or whole milk Dairy alternatives can be used.For Cooking and Finishing Touches2 tablespoons salted butter Margarine can work as an alternative.5 leaves fresh sage Use less if opting for dried sage. Equipment Instant PotStoveSlow Cooker Method Step 1: Prepare the BaseGather a large pot or Instant Pot. Add chicken, onion, garlic, wild rice, carrots, celery, seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Pour in chicken broth and ½ cup water. Cook on high pressure for 12 minutes if using Instant Pot.Step 2: Release and ShredOnce cooking time is up, perform a quick release of the steam. Remove lid, take out garlic, and shred chicken in the pot. Stir in spinach and orzo, switch to sauté mode, and cook for 6-8 minutes until orzo is al dente.Step 3: Finish the SoupPour in heavy cream or milk, mixing thoroughly. Adjust liquid for soup consistency. Prepare sage butter by melting butter with garlic and sage until fragrant.Step 4: Serve and EnjoyLadle soup into bowls, garnish with parsley, and serve with crusty bread or salad for a complete meal. Nutrition Serving: 1bowlCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 4gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 2mg NotesWatch cooking times for rice, add broth when reheating to maintain soup consistency, and feel free to substitute vegetables based on preference. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
