As the leaves turn golden and the air becomes crisp, there’s an unmistakable urge to gather around a warm bowl of soup. This Cozy Autumn Wild Rice Soup is like a love letter to the fall season, filled with the rich, earthy flavors that define this time of year. Picture yourself at the kitchen counter, the comforting aroma of sautéed garlic and herbs enveloping you like a cozy blanket.

Creating this delightful dish is not only easy but also an excellent way to transform leftover roasted chicken or turkey into something extraordinary. With tender vegetables and nutty wild rice harmoniously mingling in a creamy broth, it’s the perfect recipe for those evenings when you long for warming comfort. Plus, it’s highly customizable, making it friendly for gluten-free and dairy-free lifestyles. So, whether you’re hosting family or simply enjoying a quiet night in, you’ll find that this soup will quickly become a seasonal staple—one warm spoonful at a time.

Why is Cozy Autumn Wild Rice Soup irresistible?

Warmth, Comfort, and Flavor: With every spoonful, you’re invited to enjoy the cozy embrace of autumn’s best flavors.

Comfort Food: This soup truly embodies the essence of comfort, making it the ultimate dish for chilly evenings.

Easy to Customize: Adjust the recipe to your liking with your favorite vegetables or proteins—perfect for a personalized touch!

Quick Preparation: From prep to bowl, this dish is designed for simplicity, allowing you to enjoy a hearty meal in no time.

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for family gatherings or intimate dinners, it’s sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters.

Healthy and Wholesome: Packed with nutritious ingredients, this recipe keeps you feeling good while indulging in creamy goodness.

For more delightful recipes that warm the heart, be sure to check out our article on wholesome autumn dinners that are sure to impress!

Cozy Autumn Wild Rice Soup Ingredients

For the Soup Base
• Wild Rice – Provides nutty flavor and chewy texture; rinse before cooking to remove excess starch.
• Chicken Broth – Serves as the base, adding depth and richness; low-sodium preferred for better control over seasoning.
• Olive Oil – For sautéing vegetables; can substitute with butter for added flavor.
• Onion – Adds sweetness and flavor; yellow or white onion works best.
• Carrots – Contributes sweetness and color; fresh carrots recommended.
• Celery – Provides crunchy texture and aromatic flavor; fresh is best.
• Cremini Mushrooms – Adds umami flavor; shiitake or button mushrooms can be used as substitutes.
• Garlic – Enhances flavor; fresh minced garlic is preferred.

For the Herbs and Seasoning
• Dried Thyme, Sage, Rosemary – Adds aromatic herbaceous notes; can substitute with Italian seasoning if necessary.
• Red Pepper Flakes – Optional for a hint of heat; adjust quantity to taste.
• Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust according to taste.

For the Creamy Finish
• Cooked Chicken (shredded) – Adds protein and heartiness; rotisserie chicken is ideal for convenience.
• Heavy Cream or Coconut Milk – Adds richness and creaminess; use coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
• Dry Sherry – Optional, enhances depth of flavor; replace with lemon juice for acidity if desired.

For Garnish
• Fresh Parsley – For garnish and fresh flavor.
• Toasted Pecans or Walnuts – Adds crunch and flavor; optional.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese – Optional, for added savory flavor.

Dive into the deliciousness of this Cozy Autumn Wild Rice Soup, and experience a bowlful of warm, soulful comfort!

How to Make Cozy Autumn Wild Rice Soup

Cook the Wild Rice: In a saucepan, combine rinsed wild rice with 4 cups of chicken broth. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for 45-50 minutes until tender and grains have split. Drain any excess liquid.
Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion, carrots, and celery, cooking for 5-7 minutes until softened. Stir in cremini mushrooms and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes. Then, mix in minced garlic and herbs, cooking until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Simmer the Soup: Pour in the remaining 4 cups of chicken broth, along with the cooked wild rice and shredded chicken. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer for 30-60 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld together.
Finishing Touches: Gently stir in heavy cream or coconut milk, plus dry sherry if you’re using it. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste, heating it gently without boiling.
Serving: Ladle the soup into bowls, garnishing with toasted nuts and grated Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately and enjoy the warmth!

Optional: Top with fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Cozy Autumn Wild Rice Soup

• Rinse Wild Rice: Always rinse wild rice thoroughly before cooking to remove excess starch and achieve the desired chewy texture.

• Sauté for Flavor: Take the time to sauté your vegetables until they caramelize slightly; this will enhance sweetness and depth in your cozy autumn wild rice soup.

• Taste as You Go: Always taste the soup before serving and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper, ensuring the flavors are perfectly balanced.

• Creamy Consistency: For a creamier texture, consider blending a portion of the soup before combining it with the remaining ingredients—this adds a delightful smoothness.

• Customizable Ingredients: Don’t hesitate to add your favorite vegetables or proteins to make this cozy autumn wild rice soup uniquely yours—it’s all about personalizing the dish!

• Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for future cozy meals. Enjoy!

Make Ahead Options

This Cozy Autumn Wild Rice Soup is perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time on hectic days! You can prepare the wild rice up to 24 hours in advance; simply cook it as instructed, let it cool, and refrigerate in an airtight container. Additionally, the sautéed vegetables can also be prepped a day ahead to enhance their flavor. When you’re ready to enjoy your soup, just combine the broth, cooked rice, shredded chicken, and sautéed veggies in a pot and simmer for about 30 minutes. Stir in the heavy cream or coconut milk at the end, and your soup will taste just as comforting and delicious, making it an ideal meal prep choice!

How to Store and Freeze Cozy Autumn Wild Rice Soup

Fridge: Store any leftover soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Let it cool completely before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the soup in portions for up to 2 months. Use freezer-safe containers or bags, and label them with the date.

Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a little extra broth if necessary for the perfect creamy consistency.

Reheating: To reheat, warm the soup over medium heat until heated through, stirring occasionally. Avoid boiling to keep the creamy texture intact. Enjoy your cozy autumn wild rice soup any day!

Cozy Autumn Wild Rice Soup Variations

Embrace your creativity just like a warm kitchen on a crisp fall day!

Vegetarian Delight: Swap chicken broth for vegetable broth and add kidney beans for plant-based protein.
Velvety Coconut: Use full-fat coconut milk instead of heavy cream for a rich, dairy-free alternative. This adds a subtle sweetness too!
Hearty Additions: Toss in diced sweet potatoes or butternut squash for an extra layer of texture and sweet, earthy flavors.
Extra Veggies: Mix in kale, spinach, or even zucchini to boost nutrition without sacrificing on taste.
Flavor Infusion: Experiment with adding a splash of apple cider vinegar at the end for a zesty lift that brightens the soup.
Spicy Twist: Turn up the heat with a dash of hot sauce or more red pepper flakes for those who love a kick!
Nutty Encounter: Garnish with toasted almonds or sunflower seeds instead of pecans for a different crunch and nutty flavor.
Slow Cooker Option: Let it simmer on low in a slow cooker all day for a deeply infused flavor that welcomes you home.

What to Serve with Cozy Autumn Wild Rice Soup?

Nothing complements this delightful bowl of warmth better than a few thoughtfully chosen sides.

Crusty Bread: A fresh loaf of bread brings the perfect crunch for dipping and soaking up every drop of the creamy soup. Consider serving warm, buttered sourdough for an extra touch of comfort.
Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with crisp greens, sweet apples, and a tangy vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the soup. The crunch and acidity brighten the overall meal beautifully.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Caramelized Brussels sprouts with a sprinkle of balsamic glaze enhance the earthy flavors, creating a gourmet experience that complements our warm soup splendidly.
Apple Cider: A warm glass of spiced apple cider echoes the autumn theme, offering a sweet and nostalgic drink option that pairs perfectly with the savory notes of the soup.
Stuffed Acorn Squash: Sweet and savory stuffed acorn squash with quinoa and cranberries makes a hearty side dish, adding seasonal flair and a delightful texture alongside the soup.
Pumpkin Muffins: Sweet, spiced pumpkin muffins bring a cozy dessert option that’s perfectly bite-sized, completing the comforting autumn meal with just the right amount of sweetness.

Cozy Autumn Wild Rice Soup Recipe FAQs

What type of wild rice should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best nutty flavor and chewy texture, I recommend using long-grain wild rice, which you can find at most grocery stores. Make sure to rinse it before cooking to remove excess starch for even cooking.

How should I store leftovers of Cozy Autumn Wild Rice Soup?
Storing your soup is super easy! Just let the soup cool completely, then transfer it into an airtight container. It can be safely stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just remember to keep it covered to prevent it from absorbing odors from other foods.

Can I freeze Cozy Autumn Wild Rice Soup?
Very much so! To freeze, pour the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, leaving some space for expansion. It can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re craving a warm bowl, just thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove for the best texture.

What if I don’t have heavy cream for the soup?
No problem at all! You can substitute heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free option, or even use half-and-half for a lighter alternative. Just stir it in at the end, and it will still yield a deliciously creamy result.

What should I do if my soup ends up too thick?
If you find that your soup is thicker than you’d like, don’t fret! Simply stir in some extra broth or water, a little at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. This allows you to customize the thickness while keeping the flavor intact.

Is this soup suitable for people with allergies?
Certainly! This recipe is highly customizable. If you have allergies, simply replace any problematic ingredients with safe alternatives. For example, opt for vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian option, and always double-check labels on any packaged goods to avoid allergens.