This Mediterranean Chicken, Mushroom & Wild Rice Soup is the ultimate combination of comfort food and clean eating. Warm, hearty, and deeply flavorful, this soup brings together tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, nutty wild rice, and aromatic Mediterranean herbs in a light yet satisfying broth.
Perfect for meal prep, immune-boosting dinners, and weight-conscious meal plans, this soup is inspired by the principles of the Mediterranean diet, which is consistently ranked as one of the healthiest eating patterns in the world. It’s naturally high in protein, rich in fiber, and packed with antioxidants—making it ideal for families, fitness enthusiasts, and anyone looking for healthy homemade soup recipes.
Whether you’re searching for a low-calorie chicken soup, a high-protein comfort meal, or a one-pot healthy dinner, this recipe delivers flavor without compromise.
Ingredients (Serves 6)
Main Ingredients
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1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs (cubed)
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1 cup uncooked wild rice (or wild rice blend)
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8 oz mushrooms (cremini or button, sliced)
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1 medium onion (diced)
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2 carrots (chopped)
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2 celery stalks (sliced)
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3 cloves garlic (minced)
Liquids & Fats
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2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
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6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
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1 cup water (as needed)
Mediterranean Seasonings
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1 tsp dried oregano
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1 tsp dried thyme
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½ tsp rosemary
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½ tsp smoked paprika
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1 bay leaf
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Salt and black pepper to taste
Finishing Touches
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Juice of ½ lemon
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2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
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Optional: ¼ cup light cream or coconut milk
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Sauté the Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 4–5 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and mushrooms, sautéing until mushrooms release their moisture and turn golden.
2. Cook the Chicken
Add cubed chicken to the pot. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, oregano, thyme, and rosemary. Cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is lightly browned on the outside.
3. Add Rice and Broth
Stir in wild rice, bay leaf, chicken broth, and water. Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 40–45 minutes, or until the wild rice is tender and slightly split.
4. Finish the Soup
Remove the bay leaf. Add lemon juice and fresh parsley. For a creamier texture, stir in light cream or coconut milk. Taste and adjust seasoning.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Ladle into bowls and garnish with extra parsley or cracked black pepper. Serve hot with whole-grain bread or a side salad.
Why This Soup Is a Healthy Choice
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High-protein chicken soup supports muscle health and satiety
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Wild rice is rich in fiber, magnesium, and antioxidants
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Mushrooms provide immune-boosting nutrients and umami flavor
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Mediterranean herbs support heart health and reduce inflammation
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Naturally low in sugar and ideal for clean eating meal plans
Nutrition Highlights (Per Serving – Approximate)
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Calories: 320
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Protein: 28g
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Carbohydrates: 32g
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Fat: 9g
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Fiber: 5g
This makes it a great option for weight loss diets, diabetic-friendly meals, and balanced nutrition plans.
Storage & Meal Prep Tips
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Refrigerates well for up to 4–5 days
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Freezer-friendly for up to 3 months
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Flavors deepen overnight—perfect for meal prep recipes
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Reheat gently on the stovetop for best texture
Frequently Asked Questions (High-CPM SEO Keywords)
Is Mediterranean chicken soup healthy?
Yes. It follows the Mediterranean diet principles, emphasizing lean protein, healthy fats, and whole grains, which support heart health and longevity.
Is wild rice better than white rice?
Wild rice has more fiber, antioxidants, and protein, making it ideal for blood sugar control and weight management.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely. Cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours, adding lemon and parsley at the end.
Is this soup good for weight loss?
Yes. It’s low in calories, high in protein, and very filling—perfect for fat-loss meal plans.
Can I make it dairy-free or gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free, and you can skip the cream or use coconut milk to keep it dairy-free.
Is chicken and mushroom soup good for immunity?
Yes. Chicken, garlic, mushrooms, and herbs are well-known for supporting immune health and gut health.
Final Thoughts
This Mediterranean Chicken, Mushroom & Wild Rice Soup is more than just a cozy meal—it’s a nutrient-dense, heart-healthy recipe that fits seamlessly into modern healthy lifestyles. Whether you’re cooking for your family, planning weekly meals, or building a high-quality food blog, this soup is a timeless winner.
