Indulge in the comforting flavors of a classic American dish with our Roasted Chicken with Wild Rice Soup! This heartwarming recipe combines the succulent taste of perfectly roasted chicken with the earthy richness of wild rice, creating a meal that’s not just delicious but also deeply satisfying. Whether you're looking to impress guests or simply treat yourself to a cozy night in, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. With a prep time of just 20 minutes and a cooking time that fills your home with irresistible aromas, you won't want to miss out on this culinary delight!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs 30 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 50 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken
- 1 cup wild rice
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Remove giblets from the chicken cavity and pat the chicken dry with paper towels.
- Season the chicken inside and out with salt, pepper, and thyme. Ensure even coating of seasonings.
- Place the whole chicken in a large roasting pan, breast side up. Truss the chicken legs with kitchen twine to ensure even cooking.
- Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when measured at the thickest part of the thigh.
- While the chicken is roasting, prepare the vegetables. Chop the onion, dice the carrots and celery, and set aside.
- In a large soup pot, heat a small amount of oil and sauté the chopped vegetables until they become soft and translucent.
- Add wild rice to the pot and stir to combine with the vegetables.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cook the rice according to package instructions, typically 45-50 minutes.
- Once the chicken is fully roasted, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes.
- Carve the roasted chicken, separating the meat from the bones. Shred or chop the chicken meat into bite-sized pieces.
- Add the carved chicken meat to the wild rice soup, stirring gently to combine.
- Taste the soup and adjust seasonings with additional salt, pepper, and thyme as needed.
- Serve hot in deep bowls, garnishing with fresh herbs if desired.
Tips
- Choose the Right Chicken: Opt for a fresh, organic whole chicken for the best flavor and tenderness. If possible, look for free-range options.
- Season Generously: Don't skimp on the salt, pepper, and thyme! A good seasoning will enhance the natural flavors of the chicken and the soup.
- Truss for Even Cooking: Trussing the chicken helps it cook evenly, ensuring that all parts are juicy and delicious.
- Use Homemade Broth: If you have the time, using homemade chicken broth can elevate the flavor of your soup significantly.
- Monitor the Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for perfectly cooked meat.
- Rest Before Carving: Allow the chicken to rest for 10-15 minutes after roasting. This helps retain moisture, making the meat more succulent.
- Customize the Soup: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or herbs to the wild rice soup for a personal touch. Spinach or mushrooms can add great flavor and nutrition.
- Garnish for Presentation: A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or thyme can brighten up your dish and make it look even more appetizing!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 382kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 33g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 60mg
