Byerlys Chicken Wild Rice Soup Recipe

If you’ve ever stepped into a Byerly’s or Lunds grocery store in Minnesota or beyond, you may have come across their famous Chicken Wild Rice Soup. It’s one of those classic comfort foods that instantly warms you up, no matter the season. Thick, creamy, and filled with hearty ingredients, this soup is more than just a meal – it’s a Minnesota tradition. Whether you’re looking for something to fill you up on a chilly day or craving the kind of nostalgia only food can bring, this recipe is a must-try.

Why Should You Make This Soup?

• The flavor is incredibly rich and comforting – it’s like a hug in a bowl.
• Wild rice gives it a unique twist, offering a depth that white rice just can’t match.
• It’s versatile – you can adjust it to fit your preferences or dietary needs.

Let’s dive in and break down this signature soup so you can recreate it at home.

Byerlys Chicken Wild Rice Soup Recipe

Byerly’s Chicken Wild Rice Soup is celebrated for its velvety texture, which comes from a perfect balance of creamy broth, tender chicken, and the chewiness of wild rice. It’s not just a soup – it’s an experience that brings the flavors of the Northwoods to your kitchen. This homemade version will have you savoring every spoonful and sharing it with family and friends.

Ingredients Needed

Here’s what you’ll need for this rich, indulgent soup:

• Chicken Breast (Boneless & Skinless) – About 1 pound. Boneless, skinless chicken breast is the lean option for a protein boost, but feel free to substitute with chicken thighs for more flavor.
• Wild Rice – You need about 1 cup of wild rice, which is the star of the dish. Wild rice has a nutty, earthy flavor that adds depth to the soup.
• Vegetables – Carrots, celery, and onions form the aromatic base of the soup. About 1 cup each of carrots and celery and 1 medium onion, finely diced.
• Garlic – 2-3 cloves minced. A must for infusing that rich, savory undertone.
• Chicken Broth – 4 cups. For the best flavor, use low-sodium chicken broth or make your own if you have the time.
• Heavy Cream – About 1 cup. This is what creates the creamy, smooth consistency that makes the soup so indulgent.
• Butter – 3 tablespoons. It’s the fat that gives the soup a silky, luxurious texture.
• Flour – 1/4 cup. This helps thicken the soup to the perfect consistency.
• Thyme – 1 teaspoon of dried thyme. This herb’s subtle earthiness pairs perfectly with the wild rice.
• Bay Leaf – 1. The bay leaf will simmer and infuse its herbal flavor throughout the soup.
• Salt & Pepper – To taste. Simple, but vital in balancing the richness of the soup.
• Lemon Juice – 1 tablespoon. A little acidity at the end brightens the flavors and cuts through the richness of the cream.

Cooking Instructions

Now, the fun part – making this creamy, comforting soup! Follow these steps, and you’ll have a hearty bowl in no time:

1. Prepare The Chicken

   • Start by cooking the chicken. You can either poach it gently in some water (about 20-25 minutes) or cook it in a skillet with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper until fully cooked. Once done, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces and set it aside.

2. Cook The Wild Rice

   • Rinse the wild rice thoroughly, then cook it according to package instructions, typically in 3 cups of water. It’ll take around 40-45 minutes to fully cook. Drain and set aside.

3. Make The Soup Base

   • In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add the diced onions, carrots, celery, and garlic. Sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
   • Stir in the flour and cook for another 2 minutes, making sure the flour is incorporated and doesn’t clump.

4. Add Broth & Seasonings

   • Slowly whisk in the chicken broth, making sure there are no lumps from the flour. Bring the soup to a gentle simmer, and then add the thyme, bay leaf, and some salt and pepper to taste.
   • Let it simmer for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to combine.

5. Finish The Soup

   • Stir in the shredded chicken and cooked wild rice. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes.
   • Add the heavy cream and adjust seasoning if needed. For a bit of brightness, add a squeeze of lemon juice at the end.

6. Serve

   • Remove the bay leaf and serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs or crackers on the side.

Ingredient Insights

Let’s take a deeper look at some of the ingredients that make this soup so special:

• Wild Rice: Wild rice isn’t technically a type of rice but a type of aquatic grass. It has a firm texture and a deep, earthy flavor, which balances out the richness of the creamy soup. Plus, it’s a great source of fiber and nutrients like manganese, zinc, and folate.
• Heavy Cream: While it may seem indulgent, heavy cream gives the soup that thick, luxurious texture that makes it feel like a true comfort food. It also balances out the natural sweetness from the vegetables and the earthiness of the wild rice.
• Thyme: This herb’s earthy, slightly minty flavor complements the savory richness of the soup without overpowering it. Thyme also pairs wonderfully with chicken, making it a natural addition to this recipe.
• Lemon Juice: This might seem like a surprising addition, but just a bit of lemon juice at the end helps to cut through the richness and gives the soup a refreshing brightness.

Expert Tips

Want to make your Chicken Wild Rice Soup even better? Here are a few expert tips for perfecting the dish:

• For the Best Chicken: If you have the time, cook your chicken in bone broth for an extra layer of flavor. You can even roast the chicken for added depth before adding it to the soup.
• Wild Rice Tips: Don’t overcook the wild rice! It should have a chewy texture, not mushy. Keep an eye on it while cooking.
• Flavor Layering: Make sure to season in layers. Don’t wait until the end to taste and adjust the seasoning. Season the soup as it simmers for more complex flavors.
• Use a Slow Cooker: For a no-fuss method, you can make this soup in a slow cooker. Simply add all the ingredients (except for the cream) and let it cook on low for 4-6 hours. Add the cream towards the end of the cooking time.

Recipe Variations

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable depending on your preferences or dietary restrictions. Here are a few variations you might want to try:

• Vegetarian Version: Replace the chicken with mushrooms for a hearty, umami-packed alternative. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Gluten-Free: Swap the flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to thicken the soup.
• Dairy-Free: For a dairy-free version, use coconut cream or a non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk. Just make sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly.
• Add More Veggies: Feel free to throw in some other veggies like leeks, parsnips, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.

Final Words

This Chicken Wild Rice Soup isn’t just a meal – it’s a warm embrace in a bowl. With its rich, creamy texture and earthy wild rice, it’s one of those soups that’s sure to become a staple in your home. Perfect for cozying up on a winter night or sharing with loved ones at a dinner party, this soup brings people together.