Hearty Instant Pot Chicken and Wild Rice Soup

There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup to chase away the chill, and this Instant Pot Chicken and Wild Rice Soup stands as a true testament to cozy, creamy comfort. Imagine tender, succulent chicken, robust wild rice, savory mushrooms, and an array of garden vegetables all swimming together in a rich, herb-infused broth. This isn’t just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl, meticulously crafted to bring warmth and satisfaction to your table, even on the busiest of weeknights.

creamy chicken mushroom wild rice soup in a clay bowl — A close-up of a rich, creamy Instant Pot Chicken and Wild Rice Soup, garnished and ready to be enjoyed.

As the crisp air of soup season descends upon us, our cravings naturally shift towards meals that are both nourishing and deeply comforting. This Instant Pot Chicken and Wild Rice Soup effortlessly ticks all the boxes. It’s a wonderfully filling recipe, crafted with nutrient-rich wild rice, lean chicken breasts, and an abundance of fresh, vibrant vegetables. Infused with aromatic herbs, this soup is anything but bland; it’s a symphony of flavors that will delight your palate.

The addition of cream lends this Instant Pot chicken and wild rice soup a luxurious, velvety texture that elevates it from a simple meal to a gourmet experience, all while remaining surprisingly easy to prepare. Thanks to the magic of the Instant Pot, you can achieve homemade quality in a fraction of the time, making it ideal for those evenings when you desire something extraordinary without the extensive kitchen commitment. Don’t forget to explore our other beloved Instant Pot creations, like the warming Instant Pot Potato Soup, the subtly sweet Instant Pot Butternut Squash Soup, and the classic Instant Pot Chicken and Rice recipe.

Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Instant Pot Chicken and Wild Rice Soup

This Instant Pot Chicken and Wild Rice Soup isn’t just another recipe; it’s a culinary triumph designed for convenience, flavor, and wholesome goodness. Here’s why it’s destined to become a staple in your meal rotation:

Effortlessly Easy to Make: Forget complicated techniques or endless hours over the stove. This creamy chicken and wild rice soup recipe utilizes everyday ingredients and boasts minimal prep time. The majority of the cooking is hands-off, allowing your Instant Pot to do all the heavy lifting. Simply add your ingredients, set it, and let the pressure cooker work its magic, delivering a delicious meal with unparalleled ease.
Convenient One-Pot Wonder: Say goodbye to mountains of dirty dishes! This entire recipe is prepared right in your pressure cooker, from sautéing the vegetables to simmering the broth. This one-pot approach drastically simplifies cleanup, making it perfect for busy weeknights when time is precious. Enjoy a gourmet-tasting meal without the post-dinner chore list.
Hearty and Wholesome Goodness: Crafted with a bounty of natural ingredients, this homemade soup is incredibly nourishing and satisfying. It features the earthy richness of wild rice, lean and protein-packed chicken, and a medley of fresh, vibrant vegetables. Every spoonful is packed with flavor and beneficial nutrients, providing a hearty meal that truly satisfies your hunger and your soul.

close up image of chicken wild rice soup in a clay bowl — A closer look at the rich texture and vibrant ingredients of the soup.

Essential Ingredients for Your Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup

Crafting this soulful Instant Pot Chicken and Wild Rice Soup requires a blend of fresh, wholesome ingredients that contribute to its rich flavor and comforting texture. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need:

Butter: This is your flavor base for sautéing the vegetables, adding a lovely richness that deepens the soup’s overall taste. If you prefer, a neutral-flavored oil like olive oil or avocado oil can be used as a healthier alternative, though the butter truly enhances the creamy profile.
Aromatic Vegetables: A classic mirepoix of chopped onion, carrots, and celery forms the backbone of flavor, providing sweetness and depth. Fresh garlic, minced, adds a pungent warmth. Sliced mushrooms are a wonderful addition, offering an earthy umami note that complements the chicken and wild rice beautifully. Feel free to use cremini or white button mushrooms.
Hearty Seasonings: A medley of dried herbs brings this soup to life. Italian seasoning provides a balanced blend of savory herbs, while additional rosemary and thyme contribute distinct, aromatic notes. Salt and pepper are crucial for seasoning to taste, and bay leaves simmer in the broth, infusing it with subtle, complex flavor that is truly indispensable for a robust soup.
Wild Rice Blend: The star grain of this dish! We recommend a wild rice blend for its fantastic nutty flavor and its ability to hold its texture remarkably well during pressure cooking. Wild rice is also a whole grain, offering a good source of fiber and antioxidants, making this soup both delicious and nutritious. Avoid using white rice, which can become mushy.
Tender Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or tenderloins are ideal for this recipe. They cook quickly in the Instant Pot and can be easily shredded or diced, seamlessly integrating into the creamy soup. For extra flavor, you could even use bone-in, skin-on chicken and remove the skin and bones after cooking.
Flavorful Broth: High-quality chicken stock or broth is essential for building the soup’s depth. It contributes significantly to the savory profile. If you’re out of chicken broth, vegetable stock works wonderfully. In a pinch, plain water can be used, but you’ll likely need to adjust and add more seasonings to compensate for the reduced flavor.
Thickening Agent: Arrowroot starch or cornstarch is used to create a light slurry, which is then added to the hot soup to thicken it to a perfect, creamy consistency. Both work equally well, ensuring your soup isn’t watery but lusciously rich.
Rich Heavy Cream: The grand finale! Heavy cream is stirred in at the end, providing an unparalleled richness, smooth flavor, and luxurious texture that makes this soup truly decadent. For a slightly lighter option, half-and-half can be used, but heavy cream yields the most satisfying and indulgent result.

ingredients for chicken wild rice soup laid out on a table — A visual guide to all the fresh ingredients needed for this delightful soup.

Step-by-Step Guide: Crafting Your Instant Pot Chicken and Wild Rice Soup

Making this heartwarming soup in your Instant Pot is a straightforward process, ensuring a delicious result with minimal fuss. Follow these detailed steps to create a meal that will impress:

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics and Mushrooms. Begin by setting your Instant Pot to the “Sauté” function. Once hot, add the butter and allow it to melt and lightly sizzle. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook them until they are beautifully tender and have released their moisture, developing a golden-brown hue. This step is crucial for building deep flavor. Using a slotted spoon, carefully transfer the cooked mushrooms to a plate and set them aside.
Step 2: Build the Flavor Base. With the Instant Pot still on “Sauté,” add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Stir well and cook for about 2-3 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften slightly but not brown. They should be tender-crisp.
Step 3: Infuse with Herbs and Spices. Now, add the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper to the softened vegetables. Stir everything thoroughly, continuing to cook for just 1 minute. This brief sauté time allows the spices to bloom, releasing their full aroma and flavor into the pot.
Step 4: Combine Main Ingredients and Broth. Return the sautéed mushrooms to the pot. Add the rinsed wild rice blend and the boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or tenderloins). Tuck in the bay leaves and pour in the chicken broth, ensuring all ingredients are mostly submerged.
Step 5: Pressure Cook to Perfection. Secure the lid onto the Instant Pot, making sure it’s properly sealed. Turn the steam release knob to the “Sealing” position. Select the “Pressure Cook” (or “Manual”) setting and set the cooking time to “High” pressure for 15 minutes.
Step 6: Natural Pressure Release. Once the cooking cycle is complete, do not manually release the pressure. Instead, allow the pressure to release naturally for at least 10-15 minutes. This natural release method is important as it prevents the chicken from becoming tough and allows the rice to fully absorb the liquid and flavors. After the natural release, the floating pin on the lid will drop.
Step 7: Shred Chicken and Prepare to Thicken. Carefully open the lid. Remove the cooked chicken breasts to a plate or cutting board. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces, then return the shredded chicken to the soup.
Step 8: Thicken and Creamify. In a small bowl, whisk together the arrowroot starch (or cornstarch) with 3 tablespoons of liquid taken directly from the soup to create a smooth slurry. Pour this slurry and the heavy cream into the soup. Stir gently until all ingredients are well incorporated and the soup begins to thicken.
Step 9: Serve Warm and Enjoy! Let the soup sit for a few minutes off the heat; it will continue to thicken as it cools slightly. Ladle the warm, creamy Instant Pot Chicken and Wild Rice Soup into bowls and serve immediately. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives, if desired, for an extra touch of color and freshness.

process images of making chicken rice soup in the instant pot — A visual step-by-step guide showing the soup’s progression in the Instant Pot.

instant pot chicken mushroom rice soup in a bowl, ready to serve — A delicious bowl of Instant Pot Chicken and Wild Rice Soup, steaming hot and ready to enjoy.

Stovetop Version: How to Make Chicken and Wild Rice Soup Without an Instant Pot

No Instant Pot? No problem! You can still enjoy a wonderfully rich and creamy chicken and wild rice soup using traditional stovetop methods. This version requires a bit more active cooking time but yields equally delicious results.

Step 1: Sauté Mushrooms. In a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are tender and lightly browned (about 5-7 minutes). Remove the mushrooms with a slotted spoon and set aside on a plate.
Step 2: Cook Aromatics. To the same pot, add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 3: Season. Stir in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute until fragrant, making sure the garlic doesn’t burn.
Step 4: Combine and Simmer. Return the cooked mushrooms to the pot. Add the rinsed wild rice blend, chicken breasts (whole or diced), and bay leaves. Pour in the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil over high heat.
Step 5: Simmer Until Cooked. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer gently for 45-55 minutes, or until the wild rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked through. The cooking time for wild rice can vary, so taste a grain to ensure it’s done.
Step 6: Shred Chicken and Thicken. Carefully remove the cooked chicken breasts from the pot, shred them using two forks, and then return the shredded chicken to the soup. In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of cornstarch (or arrowroot starch) with 3 tablespoons of cold water or soup liquid until a smooth slurry forms. Stir this slurry into the simmering soup, along with the heavy cream.
Step 7: Final Touch and Serve. Continue to simmer for another 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the soup has thickened to your desired consistency. Remove the bay leaves before serving. Ladle hot into bowls and garnish as desired.

EXPERT KITCHEN TIPS FROM NELI

Recipe Notes and Tips for the Best Instant Pot Chicken Wild Rice Soup

Sautéing Vegetables is Key: Ensure that your onions, carrots, and celery are tender before adding the broth and pressure cooking. This preliminary sautéing step deepens their flavor and contributes significantly to the richness of the final soup.
For a Smoother Texture: If you prefer a less chunky soup, you can use an immersion blender to partially puree the soup after you’ve removed the chicken breasts to shred them. Blend only some of the soup to maintain some texture, or blend it all for a completely smooth finish before stirring in the shredded chicken and cream.
Patience with Natural Release: Always allow the Instant Pot to naturally release its pressure. This process can take approximately 10-15 minutes but is crucial for several reasons. It prevents dairy from curdling when added, ensures the wild rice fully cooks without becoming mushy, and keeps the chicken wonderfully tender and moist.
Don’t Skimp on the Herbs: The Italian seasoning, rosemary, and thyme are pivotal to the soup’s aromatic profile. Toasting them briefly with the garlic and vegetables helps to release their essential oils, intensifying their flavor.
Adjusting Consistency: If your soup is too thick after adding the slurry and cream, you can always thin it out with a little extra chicken broth or water until it reaches your desired consistency. Conversely, if you prefer it even thicker, create a second small slurry with 1 tablespoon of starch and a tablespoon of liquid and stir it in.
Deglazing for Flavor: After sautéing your vegetables, if there are any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the Instant Pot, add a splash of chicken broth and scrape them up with a wooden spoon. This “deglazing” step prevents a “Burn” error and adds immense flavor to your soup.

Choosing the Best Rice for Your Soup

For the absolute best results and a soup that stands out, we highly recommend using a high-quality wild rice blend in this recipe. Wild rice offers a distinct nutty flavor and a chewy, satisfying texture that holds up beautifully under pressure cooking, ensuring each bite is delightful. Brown rice can also work as a suitable alternative, providing a good texture and earthy flavor, though it may require a slightly longer cooking time or a bit more liquid. However, white rice is generally best avoided for this particular recipe. It tends to overcook quickly in the Instant Pot and can result in a mushy, less appealing texture that detracts from the overall quality of the soup.

Making Ahead and Storing Your Soup

While this creamy chicken and wild rice soup is undeniably best enjoyed fresh, you can certainly prepare it ahead of time, with a few considerations. Soups containing rice tend to thicken significantly as they sit, as the rice grains continue to absorb liquid. If you have leftovers, they will keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, it’s highly recommended to add some additional chicken stock, broth, or even a splash of water to the pot to loosen it back up and restore its luscious consistency. Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. Avoid boiling vigorously, especially if using dairy, to prevent curdling.

creamy chicken rice soup in two clay bowls, perfect for sharing — Two inviting bowls of creamy chicken and wild rice soup, ideal for a cozy meal.

Delicious Recipe Variations to Explore

This Instant Pot Chicken and Wild Rice Soup recipe is wonderfully delicious as is, but it also serves as an excellent canvas for customization. Feel free to adapt it to suit your tastes or whatever ingredients you have on hand:

Protein Swaps: While chicken is classic, try swapping it for diced turkey breast, especially after Thanksgiving or holiday meals. You could also use rotisserie chicken for an even quicker prep, adding it in at the very end. For a heartier twist, add pre-cooked sausage or ham.
Spice it Up: Experiment with different seasonings! A pinch of smoked paprika can add a wonderful depth, while a dash of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes can introduce a subtle kick. Consider adding a touch of dried sage or marjoram for a more rustic, autumnal flavor profile.
Add More Veggies: Boost the nutritional content and texture by incorporating extra vegetables. Bell peppers (red, yellow, or orange) add sweetness and color. Spinach or kale can be stirred in during the last few minutes of cooking until wilted. Green beans, peas, or corn are also excellent additions for extra flavor and nutrients.
Cheesy Indulgence: Stir in a handful of grated Parmesan cheese or a sharp cheddar at the end of cooking for an extra layer of savory richness and a wonderfully gooey texture.
Make it Dairy-Free: For a dairy-free version, substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk (for a subtle sweetness) or a plant-based unsweetened creamer. You might also want to skip the butter and use olive oil for sautéing.
Herby Freshness: Finish the soup with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley, chives, or dill right before serving. The vibrant freshness of herbs will brighten the overall flavor.
Creamy Texture Boost: For an even thicker and creamier soup, you can mash a portion of the cooked wild rice and vegetables against the side of the pot before adding the cream and shredded chicken.

close up image of bowl of chicken rice soup, garnished with herbs — A perfectly seasoned bowl of chicken and wild rice soup, highlighting its rich ingredients.

Serving Suggestions for a Complete Meal

This Instant Pot Chicken and Wild Rice Soup is a hearty meal in itself, but pairing it with the right accompaniments can elevate your dining experience. Here are some ideas to round out your meal:

Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty baguette or a rustic sourdough loaf is perfect for soaking up every last drop of the creamy broth.
Side Salad: A light, refreshing green salad with a vinaigrette dressing provides a lovely contrast to the richness of the soup.
Garlic Knots or Dinner Rolls: Soft, warm garlic knots or homemade dinner rolls are always a welcome addition, especially for kids!
Roasted Vegetables: A side of simply roasted asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts can add more texture and nutrients to your plate.
Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley, chives, or dill brightens the flavor and adds a pop of color to each bowl.

Frequently Asked Questions About This Soup

Here are answers to some common questions you might have about making and enjoying this Instant Pot Chicken and Wild Rice Soup:

Can I use a different type of chicken? Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a richer flavor profile. The cooking time should remain similar. If using bone-in chicken, you’ll need to debone and shred it after cooking.
Is wild rice blend the same as regular wild rice? A “wild rice blend” often contains true wild rice mixed with other rice varieties like brown rice, red rice, or even white rice. Pure wild rice is typically darker and has a longer cooking time. This recipe works best with a blend, but if using pure wild rice, you may need to increase the pressure cooking time by a few minutes.
Can I freeze this soup? Freezing soups with cream and rice can sometimes alter their texture. The rice may become softer, and the cream might separate slightly when thawed and reheated. If you plan to freeze, it’s best to freeze the soup *before* adding the heavy cream and starch slurry. When ready to serve, thaw, reheat, then add the thickening slurry and cream.
What if my soup is too thin? If after adding the slurry and cream the soup isn’t as thick as you like, you can make a small additional slurry with 1 tablespoon of cornstarch (or arrowroot) mixed with 1 tablespoon of cold water. Stir it into the simmering soup until it reaches your desired consistency.
Can I make this soup vegetarian? Absolutely! Omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. For added protein, you can include white beans, chickpeas, or a plant-based chicken substitute. Mushrooms and extra vegetables will make it hearty and satisfying.

Explore More Delightful Soup Recipes

If you’ve thoroughly enjoyed this incredibly comforting Instant Pot Chicken and Wild Rice Soup, we know you’ll love exploring some of our other cherished soup creations. Each recipe is crafted to bring warmth and flavor to your table, whether you’re seeking a quick weeknight meal or a comforting weekend indulgence:

Tarator – Bulgarian Cold Cucumber Soup: A refreshing and unique cold soup perfect for warmer days, bursting with fresh cucumber and yogurt flavors.
Instant Pot Ham and Potato Soup: Another fantastic Instant Pot recipe, this hearty soup combines savory ham with tender potatoes for a robust and satisfying meal.
Easy Cauliflower Soup: A surprisingly creamy and flavorful soup that’s incredibly simple to make, highlighting the humble cauliflower’s versatility.
Creamy Zucchini Soup: Light yet luxurious, this creamy zucchini soup is a perfect way to enjoy fresh seasonal produce in a comforting form.

We truly hope this expanded and enhanced Instant Pot Chicken and Wild Rice Soup recipe brings warmth and joy to your kitchen. If you enjoyed preparing or tasting this recipe, or any other recipe on my blog, please take a moment to leave a ⭐ star rating and share your thoughts in the 📝 comments section below. Your feedback means the world to us! Thank you for visiting Delicious Meets Healthy!

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Instant Pot Chicken and Wild Rice Soup

By:
Neli Howard

This Instant Pot Chicken and Wild Rice Soup is a creamy, cozy, and flavorful one-pot meal packed with tender chicken, wholesome wild rice, earthy mushrooms, and fresh vegetables, all infused with fragrant herbs. It’s the perfect easy comfort food for any weeknight.

Prep Time:
10

Cook Time:
25

Natural release:
25

Total Time:
1

Servings:
4 servings

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Ingredients

2 Tablespoons butter
8 oz mushrooms, sliced
1 medium onion, chopped
2 carrots, chopped (about 2 cups)
2 ribs celery, chopped
3 large cloves garlic, minced
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon rosemary
1 teaspoon thyme
1.5 teaspoons salt
½ teaspoon pepper
1 cup wild rice blend, rinsed
2 skinless and boneless chicken breasts, or chicken tenderloins
2 bay leaves
5 cups chicken broth, or stock
2 Tablespoons arrowroot starch, or cornstarch
1 cup heavy cream

Instructions

Turn the pot on to Sauté and add the butter.
When the butter has melted, add the sliced mushrooms and cook until tender. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the mushrooms to a plate.
Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Stir and cook for a couple of minutes until vegetables are tender.
Add the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, rosemary, thyme, salt and pepper and stir everything, cooking for 1 minute.
Stir in mushrooms, wild rice, and chicken breasts. Add bay leaves and pour in the chicken broth.
Put the lid on the pot and turn the knob to the Sealing position. Pressure cook on High for 15 minutes and when the cooking cycle is finished, let the pressure release naturally.
When the pin in the lid drops, carefully open the lid and remove the chicken breasts to a plate or cutting board. Using a couple of forks, shred the chicken into small pieces and then add back into the soup.
In a small bowl mix the arrowroot starch (or cornstarch) with 3 tablespoons of liquid from the soup and make a slurry. Add the slurry and the heavy cream to the soup and stir until well incorporated.
Let sit for a few minutes to thicken. Serve warm.

Notes

Making this on the stovetop? You’ll find the stovetop instructions in the post above, right below the step-by-step photos.
Make sure that the vegetables are tender before adding the broth.
To make a smooth soup, you can use an immersion blender to puree it after you have removed the chicken breasts to shred them.
Let the Instant Pot naturally release its pressure. This can take up to 10 – 15 minutes.
For optimal flavor, avoid rushing the sautéing process. Caramelization of vegetables is key to a rich soup base.
Taste and adjust seasonings before serving. Sometimes a final pinch of salt or pepper can really make the flavors pop.
If the soup is too thick upon reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or water to thin it to your desired consistency.

Nutrition

Nutrition Disclaimer: Nutritional values are estimates and may vary with ingredients, brands, and portion sizes. For accuracy, use your preferred nutrition calculator.

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