As the leaves begin to rustle and the air turns crisp, there’s nothing quite like cradling a warm bowl of Autumn Wild Rice Soup. This nourishing dish is more than just a recipe; it’s a comforting hug on chilly days, filled with nutty wild rice, savory chicken, and vibrant vegetables. What I love most about this soup is its comforting heartiness and how effortlessly it can be whipped up ahead of time, turning busy evenings into a cozy feast. Plus, it’s versatile—substitute chicken with turkey or make it vegetarian without sacrificing flavor. Are you ready to dive into a bowl of autumnal goodness? Let’s get cooking!

Why is this Autumn Wild Rice Soup special?

Warmth and Comfort: This soup is like a warm hug, perfect for chilly evenings.
Flavor Explosion: The blend of herbs, veggies, and proteins creates a rich, savory taste.
Easy to Make: With simple steps, even novice cooks can impress family and friends.
Meal Prep Friendly: Make it ahead of time for stress-free weeknight dinners!
Versatile: Customize it with your choice of chicken, turkey, or vegan ingredients.
Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for family gatherings or cozy dinners, everyone will love it!

If you enjoy heartwarming soups, you might also like our Homemade Chicken Soup or try something adventurous like Sizzling Rice Wrapped.

Autumn Wild Rice Soup Ingredients

For the Soup Base
• Wild Rice – Rinse it before using to remove excess starch and enhance its nutty flavor.
• Chicken Broth – Serves as the flavorful foundation; opt for low sodium to control saltiness.
• Olive Oil – Ideal for sautéing, adding healthy fats and taste to your vegetables.

For the Vegetables
• Onion – Choose yellow or white for a natural sweetness and aromatic depth.
• Carrots – Adds a touch of sweetness and vibrant color; parsnips can be a creative substitute!
• Celery – Essential for texture and flavor; don’t skip this classic mirepoix ingredient.
• Cremini Mushrooms – Bring umami to the dish; button mushrooms can be used in a pinch.
• Garlic – Enhances the flavor dramatically; fresh garlic provides the best kick!

For the Seasoning
• Dried Thyme, Sage, Rosemary – Adds earthy, aromatic notes; Italian seasoning works well if needed.
• Red Pepper Flakes (optional) – Add a hint of spice, but feel free to omit for a mild flavor.

For Protein and Creaminess
• Shredded Chicken – A great source of protein, rotisserie chicken is perfect for quick prep!
• Heavy Cream (or Coconut Milk) – Provides luscious creaminess; opt for coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
• Dry Sherry (optional) – Elevates the depth of flavor; omit if you don’t have it.

For Garnish
• Fresh Parsley – Freshens up the soup and adds a pop of color.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese (optional) – Offers a delightful umami richness to finish your dish.
• Chopped Pecans or Walnuts – Adds a satisfying crunch; seeds can replace nuts for a nut-free option.
• Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning your soup to perfection.

This Autumn Wild Rice Soup is designed not just for warming up on those crisp fall evenings, but also to bring joy and comfort to your dining table!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Autumn Wild Rice Soup

Step 1: Cook the Wild Rice
In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed wild rice with 4 cups of chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the temperature to low, cover, and let it simmer for 45-50 minutes. The wild rice is ready when it’s tender and slightly split open; drain any excess liquid before setting it aside to be added later to your Autumn Wild Rice Soup.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add chopped onion, diced carrots, and celery, cooking for about 5-7 minutes until they soften and the onion turns translucent. Next, stir in sliced cremini mushrooms and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes. Add minced garlic, dried thyme, sage, rosemary, and optional red pepper flakes, sautéing for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Simmer the Soup
Pour 4 cups of chicken broth into the pot with the sautéed vegetables. Add the cooked wild rice and shredded chicken, stirring well to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Once simmering, cover the pot, reduce the heat to low, and let it cook for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure the flavors meld beautifully in your Autumn Wild Rice Soup.

Step 4: Finishing Touches
After the soup has simmered, stir in 1 cup of heavy cream (or coconut milk for a dairy-free option) and dry sherry if you choose to use it. Then, season the soup with fresh chopped parsley, salt, and pepper to taste. Heat the soup gently, avoiding boiling, to preserve the creamy texture before serving warm.

Step 5: Serving
Ladle the comforting Autumn Wild Rice Soup into bowls, garnishing each serving with chopped pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch. If desired, finish with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese and more parsley for an inviting presentation. Serve hot, accompanied by crusty bread or a fresh salad to enjoy a cozy fall meal.

Expert Tips for Autumn Wild Rice Soup

Properly Rinse Rice: Rinse wild rice well before cooking to remove excess starch, ensuring a better texture in your Autumn Wild Rice Soup.
Manage Liquid: Be sure to drain excess liquid after cooking the rice; this prevents your soup from becoming too watery and maintains its rich flavor.
Customize Protein: Feel free to swap out the chicken for turkey or sausage for a delicious twist. You can also make it vegetarian by simply omitting the chicken.
Cream Considerations: When adding cream, do it gently to avoid curdling. Coconut milk is a great dairy-free alternative that works beautifully.
Seasonal Variations: Embrace seasonal vegetables or herbs to breathe new life into your soup each autumn. This ensures your Autumn Wild Rice Soup stays exciting and unique!

Autumn Wild Rice Soup Variations

Feel free to get creative and make this cozy soup your own with these delightful twists!

Dairy-Free: Swap heavy cream for coconut milk to enjoy a rich, creamy texture without the dairy.
Protein Swaps: Use turkey or sausage in place of chicken for a new flavor dimension that’s equally satisfying.
Vegetarian Delight: Omit the chicken and add extra veggies or legumes, like chickpeas, for a hearty vegetarian option.
Fresh Herbs: Experiment with fresh herbs like dill or basil for an aromatic twist that elevates the soup.
Heat Up: Add a diced jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce for a warmth that livens up chilly evenings.
Extra Veggies: Sneak in some spinach or kale for a nutritional boost and vibrant color that brightens your bowl.
Nutty Twist: Toast some sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a crunchy, nut-free addition that enhances texture.
Squeeze of Lemon: A splash of lemon juice just before serving can brighten the flavors and adds an unexpected zing.

Whether you’re enjoying this as a comforting lunch or a hearty dinner, these variations can help tailor the soup to your taste and dietary needs. If you’re looking for more delicious soup recipes, don’t miss our Homemade Chicken Soup for another family favorite or try the unique flavors of Sizzling Rice Wrapped options!

What to Serve with Cozy Autumn Wild Rice Soup

Indulge in a delightful culinary experience that warms the soul and tantalizes your taste buds.

Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping, the crunchy exterior and soft interior of a fresh loaf complement the soup’s creamy richness.
Green Salad: A light, refreshing salad with mixed greens, apples, and walnuts adds a crisp contrast, balancing the hearty flavors of the soup.
Garlic Breadsticks: Soft and buttery, these breadsticks provide a comforting touch when paired with the savory soup, enhancing its warmth.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies, seasoned and caramelized, introduce an earthy sweetness that beautifully pairs with the nutty wild rice.
Cheesy Cauliflower Bake: This creamy, cheesy side brings a luxurious texture that harmonizes with the wild rice soup’s flavors.
Herbed Rice: A side of simple herbed rice offers a fragrant, fluffy base that absorbs the soup perfectly, creating a delightful bite.
Sparkling Cider: A glass of sparkling cider adds a festive touch, providing a refreshing contrast to the rich, savory notes of the soup.
Pumpkin Pie: For dessert, a slice of pumpkin pie echoes autumn flavors, making for a cozy and satisfying end to your meal.
Maple Drizzle Muffins: These subtly sweet muffins can provide a delightful contrast to the savory goodness of the soup. Perfect for snacking, too!

Serving these alongside your Autumn Wild Rice Soup will create a complete meal that celebrates the flavors of fall.

How to Store and Freeze Autumn Wild Rice Soup

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to cool the soup completely before refrigerating to maintain freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup without cream in airtight containers for up to 3 months. This helps maintain the flavors without compromising texture.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat gently on the stovetop. If frozen, heat over low heat until warmed through, adding a splash of broth for consistency if needed.
Cream Addition: If you plan to freeze the Autumn Wild Rice Soup, it’s best to add cream after reheating, as it tends to separate upon freezing.

Make Ahead Options

Preparing your Autumn Wild Rice Soup ahead of time is a fantastic way to save time on busy weeknights! You can cook the wild rice and sauté the vegetables up to 3 days in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Store these components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to enjoy your soup, simply combine the prepped ingredients in a pot with broth, add the shredded chicken, and simmer for about 30 minutes before finishing with cream and seasonings. This ensures your soup remains just as delicious and comforting as if you made it fresh. Don’t stress over dinner; with these make-ahead options, you can savor cozy fall flavors with minimal effort!

Autumn Wild Rice Soup Recipe FAQs

What type of wild rice should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! I recommend using a blend of wild rice for a nutty flavor and unique texture. When selecting wild rice, look for long, dark grains that feel firm to the touch. Rinse it thoroughly before cooking to remove excess starch, which enhances both flavor and texture.

How should I store leftovers of Autumn Wild Rice Soup?
Very simply! Store your leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to let the soup cool completely before sealing to maintain its fresh taste. If you have more soup than you can eat, don’t worry—you can always freeze it!

Can I freeze Autumn Wild Rice Soup?
Absolutely! To freeze, allow the soup to cool and then pour it into airtight containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion. However, avoid freezing it with the cream added, as it can separate. Freeze the soup for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop, adding cream just before serving.

What if my soup is too thick?
No worries at all! If you find your Autumn Wild Rice Soup is thicker than you’d like, simply add a bit of chicken broth or water while reheating. Stir it in gradually until you reach your desired consistency. This will keep the flavors intact and make for a delightful, warm meal.

Is this soup suitable for those with nut allergies?
Very important to consider! If you have nut allergies, feel free to omit the chopped pecans or walnuts used for garnish. Instead, you can substitute with seeds such as pumpkin or sunflower seeds for a delightful crunch without the nut risk.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! To create a vegetarian version of the Autumn Wild Rice Soup, simply omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also increase the amount of vegetables to add substance and flavor, ensuring you don’t miss out on that hearty goodness!