Instant Pot Chicken Wild Rice Soup is the ultimate comforting dish rich, creamy, and packed with flavor. This hearty soup is perfect for cold nights or meal prep. The Instant Pot makes it incredibly easy, reducing cooking time while preserving all the delicious flavors.
In this article, we’ll cover:
- How to make Instant Pot Chicken Wild Rice Soup step by step.
- Cooking tips to ensure perfect texture and taste.
- Answers to common questions about storage, overcooking, and pressure cooking.
Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love Instant Pot Chicken Wild Rice Soup
A Nutritious and Hearty Meal
Instant Pot Chicken Wild Rice Soup isn’t just delicious, it’s also packed with essential nutrients that make it a balanced and satisfying meal. Here’s why:
- High in Protein: Chicken provides lean, high-quality protein, which supports muscle growth and keeps you full longer.
- Rich in Fiber: Wild rice is a fantastic source of fiber, aiding digestion and promoting gut health.
- Loaded with Vegetables: Carrots, celery, onions, and garlic add essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
- Perfect for a Healthy Lifestyle: This soup is naturally gluten-free and can be made dairy-free by swapping the cream for coconut milk.
Quick and Easy with the Instant Pot
Cooking wild rice soup the traditional way can take hours, but the Instant Pot makes it faster, easier, and more convenient!
- Cooks in Under an Hour: Unlike stovetop versions that take 2+ hours, the Instant Pot locks in flavors and cooks everything perfectly in just 35 minutes!
- One-Pot Wonder: Say goodbye to messy dishes! The Instant Pot does everything in one pot, making cleanup a breeze.
- Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and store leftovers in the fridge or freezer for easy weeknight meals.
This soup is the perfect combination of comfort, nutrition, and convenience. You’ll love making it all year round!
Ingredients Needed for Instant Pot Chicken Wild Rice Soup
Making Instant Pot Chicken Wild Rice Soup is easy when you have the right ingredients. Below is a breakdown of everything you need, including optional ingredients for a creamier, richer soup.
Essential Ingredients
To achieve the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and nutrition, gather these key ingredients:
- Chicken: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Thighs add more richness, while breasts keep the dish lean.
- Wild Rice Blend: A mix of wild rice and long-grain rice creates the best texture. Avoid instant wild rice, which can turn mushy.
- Vegetables: Classic soup staples like carrots, celery, onion, and garlic enhance the depth of flavor.
- Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium chicken broth to control salt levels and add a rich base to the soup.
- Seasonings: A simple yet effective mix of:
- Dried thyme: Earthy and aromatic.
- Bay leaves: Infuse a subtle depth of flavor.
- Salt and black pepper: Improve the overall taste.
Optional Additions for Extra Creaminess
For a richer, more indulgent Instant Pot Chicken Wild Rice Soup, consider adding these ingredients after pressure cooking:
- Heavy Cream or Coconut Milk: Gives the soup a luxurious, velvety texture. Coconut milk is a great dairy-free alternative.
- Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of grated Parmesan adds a savory, umami kick.
Want to make it even heartier? You can also add:
- Mushrooms: For an earthy, meaty bite.
- Spinach or Kale: Boosts nutrition and adds vibrant color.
With these simple yet flavorful ingredients, you’re ready to create a delicious, restaurant-quality Instant Pot Chicken Wild Rice Soup at home!
How to Make Instant Pot Chicken Wild Rice Soup
Making Instant Pot Chicken Wild Rice Soup is incredibly easy, thanks to the Instant Pot’s quick cooking method. Follow this step-by-step guide to create a rich, creamy, and comforting bowl of soup in under an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Sauté Aromatics
- Turn on the Instant Pot’s sauté mode and heat a little oil or butter.
- Add onions, garlic, carrots, and celery, stirring occasionally until softened and fragrant (about 3-5 minutes).
2. Add Chicken and Rice
- Place boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs into the pot.
- Add wild rice blend and sprinkle in your seasonings (thyme, bay leaves, salt, and pepper).
3. Pour in Broth
- Pour chicken broth over the ingredients, ensuring everything is well combined.
- Stir gently to evenly distribute the seasonings.
4. Pressure Cook
- Secure the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to Sealing.
- Select High Pressure and cook for 35 minutes.
- Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow a natural pressure release for 10 minutes before carefully switching the valve to Venting to release any remaining steam.
5. Shred Chicken
- Open the lid and remove the cooked chicken.
- Shred the chicken using two forks, then return it to the pot and stir.
6. Add Cream (Optional)
- For an extra rich and creamy texture, stir in heavy cream or coconut milk.
- Let the soup sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Now, your Instant Pot Chicken Wild Rice Soup is ready to serve! Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Instant Pot Chicken Wild Rice Soup
Making Instant Pot Chicken Wild Rice Soup is easy, but a few key cooking tips can take your soup from good to absolutely perfect! Follow these pro tips to ensure the best texture, flavor, and consistency every time.
Use the Right Wild Rice Blend
Choosing the right type of wild rice is crucial for the perfect texture.
- Avoid Instant Wild Rice: It cooks too quickly and can turn soft and mushy in the Instant Pot.
- Use a Wild Rice Blend: A combination of wild rice and long-grain rice works best, as it holds its texture while absorbing the rich flavors of the broth.
- Rinse the Rice First: This removes excess starch and prevents the soup from becoming too thick.
Prevent Overcooked Chicken
The Instant Pot locks in moisture, but you still need to be mindful of how the chicken cooks.
- Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts: Thighs have more fat and connective tissue, making them juicier and more flavorful. Chicken breasts can dry out more easily.
- Don’t Skip the Natural Release: Allowing at least 10 minutes of natural pressure release keeps the chicken tender and moist. A quick release can make it tough.
- Shred the Chicken Gently: Once cooked, remove the chicken, shred it with two forks, and return it to the soup to soak up all the flavors.
By following these simple yet effective tips, you’ll ensure that your Instant Pot Chicken Wild Rice Soup turns out creamy, hearty, and packed with the best textures and flavors!
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Instant Pot Chicken Wild Rice Soup
Even though Instant Pot Chicken Wild Rice Soup is simple to make, a few common mistakes can affect its texture, flavor, and overall quality. Avoid these pitfalls to ensure a perfectly balanced and delicious soup every time!
Overcooking the Rice
- Wild rice needs just the right cook time: too long, and it loses its signature chewy texture.
- Stick to 35 minutes of pressure cooking followed by a 10-minute natural release to prevent it from breaking down into mush.
- If you prefer firmer rice, reduce the cook time to 30 minutes and let it sit for a few extra minutes after releasing pressure.
Adding Dairy Too Early
- If you’re using heavy cream, coconut milk, or Parmesan cheese, do not add them before pressure cooking.
- Dairy can curdle or separate under high pressure, ruining the smooth consistency of the soup.
- Instead, stir in cream or milk after cooking, then let it warm up for a few minutes before serving.
Skipping the Sauté Step
- Taking just 5 minutes to sauté the onions, garlic, carrots, and celery before pressure cooking makes a huge difference in flavor.
- This step caramelizes the aromatics, adding rich depth to the soup.
- Don’t rush: let the vegetables soften properly to bring out their natural sweetness.
Pro Tip: If you’re short on time, at least sauté the onions and garlic to enhance the soup’s base flavor!
By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll ensure your Instant Pot Chicken Wild Rice Soup is flavorful, creamy, and perfectly textured every single time.
Storing and Reheating Instant Pot Chicken Wild Rice Soup
One of the best things about Instant Pot Chicken Wild Rice Soup is that it stores and reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep. Follow these simple storage tips to keep your soup fresh and delicious for days!
How Long Can Instant Pot Chicken Wild Rice Soup Stay in the Fridge?
- Store leftover Instant Pot Chicken Wild Rice Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Let the soup cool completely before refrigerating to prevent condensation and bacterial growth.
- Reheating Tip: Warm it on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring occasionally to maintain the creamy consistency.
Can You Freeze Instant Pot Chicken Wild Rice Soup?
- Yes! This soup freezes well for up to 3 months.
- Best Freezing Tip: If you plan to freeze it, leave out the dairy (cream, milk, or cheese) when cooking. Add it only after reheating to maintain the best texture.
- Portion It Out: Freeze in individual servings using airtight containers or freezer-safe bags for easy thawing.
- Thawing Instructions: Defrost overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
By following these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy a warm and comforting bowl of Instant Pot Chicken Wild Rice Soup anytime without losing its flavor or texture!
Serving Suggestions
Best Sides to Serve with Instant Pot Chicken Wild Rice Soup
Pairing your Instant Pot Chicken Wild Rice Soup with the right side dishes boosts the meal, making it heartier and more satisfying. Here are some of the best sides to complement the rich and creamy flavors of this soup.
1. Crusty Bread: Perfect for Dipping
A warm, crusty loaf of sourdough, French baguette, or artisan bread pairs beautifully with the soup. The crisp outer layer and soft interior are ideal for soaking up the broth. For extra flavor, try garlic butter toast or a slice of cheesy bread.
2. Side Salad: Adds Freshness
A light and refreshing salad balances the richness of the soup. Consider:
- Classic Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, parmesan cheese, and croutons with a creamy dressing.
- Mixed Greens with Vinaigrette: A simple salad with leafy greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light dressing.
- Apple Walnut Salad: Sliced apples, candied walnuts, feta cheese, and a balsamic glaze add a sweet contrast.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Complements the Soup’s Flavors
For a warm and hearty side, try oven-roasted vegetables. The caramelization enhances their natural sweetness, pairing well with the earthy flavors of Instant Pot Chicken Wild Rice Soup. Some great options include:
- Roasted Brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze.
- Honey-glazed carrots for a touch of sweetness.
- Garlic butter-roasted mushrooms for an umami boost.
These side dishes turn your chicken wild rice soup into a complete, comforting meal!
Print
Instant Pot Chicken Wild Rice Soup
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Instant Pot Chicken Wild Rice Soup is a warm, comforting dish perfect for cozy dinners or meal prep. Made with tender chicken, hearty wild rice, and a creamy broth, it’s rich in flavor and ready in just 35 minutes with the Instant Pot!
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 1 cup wild rice blend, rinsed
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup water
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 cup heavy cream (or coconut milk for dairy-free)
- 2 tbsp butter or olive oil
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
1️⃣ Sauté Vegetables:
- Turn on the Sauté mode on the Instant Pot.
- Melt butter and sauté onions, garlic, carrots, and celery for 3-5 minutes until softened.
2️⃣ Add Chicken & Rice:
- Place chicken breasts into the pot.
- Add wild rice, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and black pepper.
3️⃣ Pour in Broth:
- Pour in chicken broth and water. Stir to combine.
4️⃣ Pressure Cook:
- Close the lid, set to High Pressure for 35 minutes, and natural release for 10 minutes.
5️⃣ Shred Chicken:
- Remove the cooked chicken, shred with two forks, then return it to the pot.
6️⃣ Make It Creamy:
- Stir in heavy cream (or coconut milk for dairy-free).
- (Optional: Mix flour with ¼ cup of cold water and add for extra thickness.)
7️⃣ Final Touches:
- Stir, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve hot with crusty bread!
Notes
- For a dairy-free version, use coconut milk instead of heavy cream.
- To thicken the soup, mix 2 tbsp of flour with a little water and stir it in after pressure cooking.
- Freezing Tip: Freeze in individual portions without cream and add it after reheating.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Soup, Comfort Food, Dinner
- Method: Instant Pot, Pressure Cooking
- Cuisine: 🇺🇸 American
Keywords: Instant Pot Chicken Wild Rice Soup, Wild Rice Soup, Pressure Cooker Soup, Healthy Soup, Creamy Chicken Soup
FAQs About Instant Pot Chicken Wild Rice Soup
❓ How do you cook wild rice soup in a pressure cooker?
Cooking wild rice soup in an Instant Pot is simple and convenient. First, sauté the onions, carrots, celery, and garlic using the “Sauté” function. Then, add wild rice, seasonings, chicken broth, and raw chicken breasts. Secure the lid and set the Instant Pot to high pressure for 35 minutes. After the cooking time ends, allow a 10-minute natural release before opening the lid. Finally, shred the chicken, stir in cream or milk for creaminess (if desired), and serve hot.
❓ Can you overcook soup in an Instant Pot?
Yes, you can overcook soup in an Instant Pot. Wild rice and chicken both have ideal cooking times, and exceeding them can result in mushy textures. Wild rice should be cooked until tender but still slightly chewy, while chicken should be fully cooked but not dried out. Following the recommended cooking time (35 minutes at high pressure with a 10-minute natural release) ensures the best consistency.
❓ Why is my Instant Pot chicken so tough?
Tough chicken in an Instant Pot usually results from two common mistakes: not cooking it long enough or using a quick release instead of a natural release. Chicken breast, in particular, benefits from longer cooking times under pressure. Additionally, a natural pressure release helps keep the meat tender by allowing it to rest and reabsorb moisture. If your chicken turns out tough, consider increasing the cooking time by 5 minutes or ensuring a full natural release.
Final Thoughts on Instant Pot Chicken Wild Rice Soup
This Instant Pot Chicken Wild Rice Soup is a game-changer for anyone craving a quick, wholesome, and delicious meal. With its rich flavors, tender chicken, and hearty wild rice, this soup is perfect for busy weeknights, meal prepping, or simply enjoying a cozy homemade dish.
Not only is this soup packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, but it also delivers deep, comforting flavors without requiring hours of cooking. Whether you’re serving it with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or roasted vegetables, it’s a meal that satisfies.
Give this Instant Pot Chicken Wild Rice Soup a try today, and experience the perfect balance of convenience, nutrition, and warmth all in under an hour!
For more delicious recipes, cooking tips, and culinary inspiration, check out Chaynez Recipes, where you’ll find all of our latest recipes and updates in one place. From savory soups to delectable desserts, there’s something for every palate.
