introduction
This Chicken Bacon Wild Rice Soup is creamy, warm, and full of flavor. It uses chicken, bacon, wild rice, and a simple creamy base. It is easy to make at home and feeds a family. For another rice idea, try the bacon cheeseburger rice stack recipe for a different meal.
why make this recipe
Make this soup when you want a cozy dinner that tastes rich but is easy to cook. It uses common ingredients and makes good leftovers. The bacon and poultry seasoning give it a strong, homey flavor.
how to make Chicken Bacon Wild Rice Soup
Ingredients :
- 3 (10 3/4 oz) cans chicken broth
- 2 cups water
- 1/2 cup uncooked wild rice, rinsed
- 1/2 cup finely chopped green onions
- 1/2 cup margarine or butter
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon poultry seasoning
- 1/8 teaspoon pepper
- 2 cups half and half
- 1 1/2 cup cubed or shredded cooked chicken or turkey
- 8 slices bacon, crisply cooked and crumbled
- 1 tablespoon chopped pimiento
- 2 to 3 tablespoons dry sherry, if desired
Directions :
- Combine chicken broth and water in a large saucepan.
- Add wild rice and green onions to the saucepan.
- Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce heat, cover, and simmer 30 to 45 minutes until the rice is tender.
- Do not drain the rice and broth.
- Melt margarine in a medium saucepan.
- Stir in flour, salt, poultry seasoning, and pepper and cook 1 minute, stirring constantly.
- Gradually stir in the half and half and cook until slightly thickened, stirring constantly.
- Add the creamy mixture back into the large saucepan with rice and broth.
- Add the cooked chicken or turkey, crumbled bacon, and chopped pimiento.
- Stir in 2 to 3 tablespoons dry sherry if you use it.
- Heat the soup on low for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, and do not let it boil.
- Adjust seasoning and add extra poultry seasoning or bacon for more flavor if you like.
how to serve Chicken Bacon Wild Rice Soup
Serve the soup hot in bowls. Garnish with extra crumbled bacon or chopped green onions. Offer crusty bread or a simple salad on the side.
how to store Chicken Bacon Wild Rice Soup
Cool the soup to room temperature, then store in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on low heat and do not boil. Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge before reheating.
tips to make Chicken Bacon Wild Rice Soup
- Use fully cooked chicken to save time.
- Do not boil after adding the half and half to keep it from curdling.
- Cook the wild rice until tender; check at 30 minutes.
- Adjust the sherry to taste or skip it for a non-alcohol version.
- Make extra bacon for a stronger smoky flavor.
variation (if any)
Use turkey instead of chicken for a different taste. Swap half and half for heavy cream for a richer soup. Add chopped carrots or celery with the green onions for more vegetables.
FAQs
Can I use instant wild rice or a rice blend?
Instant rice may cook faster. Follow package directions and add it later so it does not overcook. A rice blend may change the texture but will still work.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes. Cook the rice in broth first if needed, then combine all ingredients in the slow cooker and heat on low for 2 to 3 hours. Add the half and half near the end and do not boil.
Can I skip the bacon for a lighter soup?
Yes. Skip the bacon or use turkey bacon. You can add smoked paprika for a smoky flavor without bacon.
Conclusion
If you want another version or ideas for serving, see the full Pinch of Yum chicken bacon wild rice soup recipe for inspiration and variations.