Description
Warm, hearty, and full of comforting flavors, this Creamy Mushroom Chicken and Wild Rice Soup is the ultimate cozy meal. With tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and nutty wild rice in a creamy, flavorful broth, it’s perfect for chilly days or whenever you crave something nourishing and satisfying.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Soup:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups mushrooms, sliced (white button, cremini, or a mix)
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 cup wild rice, rinsed
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Creamy Base:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk (or half-and-half for extra creaminess)
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
- Heat olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the onion and garlic, and sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in the mushrooms, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5-7 minutes until softened.
Step 2: Cook the Rice and Chicken
- Add the rinsed wild rice, chicken broth, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper to the pot.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer, covered, for 40-45 minutes or until the rice is tender.
- Stir in the cooked chicken and let it heat through.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Base
- In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Gradually add the milk, whisking continuously, until the mixture thickens (about 3-4 minutes).
Step 4: Combine and Serve
- Pour the creamy base into the soup pot and stir well to combine. Simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes until the soup is heated through and slightly thickened.
- Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
Notes
- Use Fresh Herbs: If you have fresh thyme and rosemary, use them for an even brighter flavor.
- Cook the Rice Separately: If you prefer a less thick soup, cook the rice separately and add it when serving.
- Make It Dairy-Free: Use plant-based milk and a non-dairy butter alternative for a dairy-free version.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Cuisine: American