When it comes to heartwarming, satisfying meals, few dishes can rival a bowl of Creamy Wild Rice Chicken Soup. This beloved recipe blends tender chicken, nutty wild rice, and a velvety broth enriched with cream cheese, making it a go-to comfort food for chilly nights, family dinners, or a nourishing meal when feeling under the weather.
In the Antioch community, one particular dish has earned a legendary status: Creamy Wild Rice Chicken Soup, affectionately known as “THE SOUP.” This dish isn’t just food; it’s a tradition, a staple at gatherings, and a taste of home for those who have shared in its warmth over the years.
What Makes “THE SOUP” Special?
There are countless variations of chicken and wild rice soup, but this one has stood the test of time in the Antioch Youth Group, becoming a go-to recipe for potlucks, retreats, and cozy nights in. The secret to its success lies in its perfect balance of flavors—tender chicken, nutty wild rice, creamy broth, and a rich depth that keeps people coming back for more.
One of the things that makes this recipe so approachable is its flexibility. Not a fan of chopping onions? No problem! Dried minced onion makes an easy, equally flavorful substitute, allowing anyone to enjoy this dish without the extra prep work.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 lb. chicken breast, cooked and diced
- 1 box Ben’s Original long grain wild rice
- 1 can (49 oz.) chicken broth
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 small onion, diced (or some dried minced onion)
- 1/4 cup flour
- 8 oz. cream cheese
- 1/4 stick butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make It
- Prepare rice as directed on the box and set aside.
- Melt butter in a large pot. Add onions (or dried minced onion) and carrots. Sauté until tender.
- Add salt, pepper, and flour. Stir.
- Add chicken broth and pre-cooked cubed chicken. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium.
- Simmer for 10 minutes.
- Add rice. Simmer another 10 minutes.
- Add cream cheese and stir until melted.
Serve and enjoy. Makes about 6 bowls.
Why It’s a Community Favorite
- Warm & Comforting – The creamy broth and tender ingredients make it the perfect dish for a gathering.
- Easy to Customize – The onion substitution is just one way to make it your own. You can add celery or even a pinch of garlic for extra depth.
- Great for Groups – This recipe makes about six generous servings, but it’s easy to double or triple for a crowd.
The Legacy of “THE SOUP”
For those in the Antioch Youth Group, this soup is more than just a meal—it’s a tradition shared among friends. It has been served at retreats, comforting people after long days and warming hearts during cold seasons. Whether you’re making it for a special event or just a quiet evening at home, you’re not just making soup—you’re continuing a legacy of warmth, connection, and community.
So the next time you gather around a pot of this creamy wild rice chicken soup, know that you’re enjoying something special—THE SOUP that has brought people together for years.