Cracker Barrel Chicken and Wild Rice Soup Recipe

Cracker Barrel Chicken and Wild Rice Soup is a so good for any time you crave something hearty yet simple.

There’s something special about the combination of chicken, vegetables, and wild rice that makes this soup so satisfying.

Start by ensuring you have the best quality chicken stock, as it makes all the difference in depth of flavor.

Another secret is to let the soup simmer gently, allowing the rice to absorb all those wonderful essences and stock.

I personally love how easily customizable this recipe is; add your favorite vegetables or a dash of cream for a velvety touch.

How to Make Cracker Barrel Chicken and Wild Rice Soup Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 cup Wild Rice
• 1 lb. Chicken Breast (boneless, skinless)
• 1 medium Onion (chopped)
• 3 Carrots (sliced)
• 2 stalks Celery (sliced)
• 4 cups Chicken Broth
• 1 cup Milk
• 2 tbsp Butter
• Salt to taste
• 1 tsp Black Pepper
• 2 tbsp Flour
• 1 tbsp Olive Oil

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Begin by cooking the chicken breast.

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat, then add the chicken breast.

Cook until it’s well browned on both sides.

Once cooked, remove it and let it cool for a bit.

Step 2:

Add butter to the same pot, adjust to medium heat, and let it melt.

Stir in the chopped onion, carrots, and celery, cooking them until the onion turns translucent.

This usually takes about 5-8 minutes.

Step 3:

Sprinkle flour over the vegetables, stirring it in with care to avoid lumps.

Cook this mixture for about 2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste, then gradually whisk in the chicken broth.

Step 4:

Toss in the wild rice, then bring everything to a boil.

Once boiling, reduce to a simmer and cover.

Let it cook for 45 minutes, allowing the rice to become tender and release its flavors into the soup.

Step 5:

Shred the cooked chicken and return it to the pot along with the milk, salt, and pepper.

Stir well, letting it all simmer for another 10 minutes.

Now you’re ready to serve!

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Buttery Flavor Boost

For an extra rich flavor, you can swap half the butter for ghee.

Ghee adds a nutty and buttery depth to the soup that you’ll love.

Consistent Chopping

Make sure to chop the vegetables into similar-sized pieces, so they cook evenly.

Having some veggies softer than others can distract from the smoothness of your soup experience!

Creamy Twist

If you want an extra creamy soup, stir in ½ cup of heavy cream at the end.

Adding cream can enhance the texture without drastically changing the cooking process.

Wild Rice Texture

Be cautious not to overcook the wild rice to maintain that perfect nutty texture.

Keeping an eye on it during the last parts of cooking will ensure it stays just right.

What to Serve with Cracker Barrel Chicken and Wild Rice Soup

Fresh Green Salad

A fresh green salad is a wonderful choice to serve alongside your soup.

The crisp vegetables balance the rich flavors of the soup, and you can add your favorite toppings like nuts or crumbled cheese.

Warm Crusty Bread

There’s nothing quite like dipping some warm, crusty bread into a hearty bowl of soup.

Opt for a sourdough or multigrain loaf, and don’t forget to have some butter on the side for spreading.

Roasted Vegetables

Roasted vegetables can add a delightful depth to your meal.

Consider roasting carrots, brussels sprouts, or squash lightly seasoned with olive oil, salt, and pepper.

Garlic Mashed Potatoes

If you want something comforting and filling, garlic mashed potatoes are a great match.

They offer a creamy texture that pairs perfectly with the soup’s savory taste.

Fruit Salad

For something a little sweet and refreshing, a fruit salad is an excellent option.

A mix of berries, melon, and citrus can provide a refreshing contrast to the warmth of the soup.

Bruschetta

Bruschetta is a fantastic way to add a bit of zest to your meal.

Top toasted baguette slices with fresh tomatoes, basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an unexpected treat!

Variations and Substitutions

Rice Options

You can swap wild rice with brown rice or long-grain white rice.

Each has its own texture and flavor!

Soup Choices

Feel free to use cream of chicken or cream of mushroom soup.

This gives you great flexibility according to what’s in your pantry.

Extra Richness

Add a dollop of sour cream if you want a richer, creamier soup.

I find it truly enhances the flavor.

Herbs and Spices

Play around with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a burst of color and flavor.

It’s such a simple way to give your dish a bit of flair.

Cheese Lovers

Top your soup with some shredded cheddar cheese.

This addition can really make the dish extra comforting!

How to Store Leftover Chicken and Wild Rice Soup

Cool Before Storing

Make sure your soup cools to room temperature before transferring it to the fridge.

This step helps prevent any moisture buildup in your container.

Use Airtight Containers

Place the soup in airtight containers to maintain freshness and flavor for up to four days.

Airtight containers help keep out unwanted odors and preserve the soup’s taste.

Portion for Convenience

Divide the soup into individual portions before storing it in the fridge.

This makes it super convenient to grab just the right amount when you’re ready.

Freeze for Longer Storage

If you’re thinking of storing this soup for a longer period, freezing is the way to go.

Pour the soup into freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving some space for expansion.

The soup can last in the freezer for up to three months, perfect for future cravings!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Rushing the Rice

You might think you can speed up the process by boiling the rice too quickly, but give it time.

Letting the rice absorb flavor slowly will reward you with rich taste.

Overlooking Seasoning

Skipping the seasoning step can lead to a bland soup.

Make sure to stir in enough salt and pepper so that each bite has the right kick.

Taste as you go to find the perfect balance.

Misjudging Chicken Thickness

Cutting your chicken pieces too thick can lead to uneven cooking.

For best results, aim for similarly sized pieces so every piece is tender and juicy.

Keeping pieces consistent ensures even cooking throughout the dish.