Introduction
Creamy Mushroom Chicken and Wild Rice Soup is the perfect cozy meal for any time of year, blending earthy mushrooms, tender chicken, and hearty wild rice in a creamy, flavorful broth. This rich, comforting soup is loaded with vegetables like onions, carrots, and celery, providing not only flavor but also a good balance of nutrients. The addition of Parmesan cheese and milk or cream creates a silky texture that elevates this dish, making it perfect for chilly days when you need something warm and satisfying.
Wild rice adds a delightful chewy texture and nutty flavor to the soup, contrasting nicely with the tender vegetables and succulent chicken. The mushrooms give the soup a depth of earthy, umami flavor that makes every bite feel indulgent yet wholesome. This soup can be made with leftover or rotisserie chicken, making it a great way to turn simple ingredients into a restaurant-quality meal. Let’s explore how to prepare this Creamy Mushroom Chicken and Wild Rice Soup.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 pound mushrooms, sliced
- 1 tablespoon butter (for vegetables)
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup wild rice (or a blend including wild rice)
- 1 1/2 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded
- 1 cup milk or cream (for a richer texture, use cream)
- 1 cup Parmigiano Reggiano (Parmesan), grated
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation:
Step 1: Cook the Mushrooms
- In a large pan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Add the 1 pound of sliced mushrooms and cook, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms release their liquid and the liquid evaporates. This should take about 10-15 minutes. Once the mushrooms are golden and fragrant, remove them from the pan and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
- In the same pan, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the diced onion, diced carrots, and diced celery, and cook over medium heat until the vegetables are tender, about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure the vegetables soften evenly.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Thyme
- Stir in the chopped garlic and 1 teaspoon of fresh thyme. Cook for about 1 minute until the garlic becomes fragrant, but be careful not to let it burn. The thyme adds an earthy, herbal note that pairs wonderfully with the mushrooms and wild rice.
Step 4: Add Broth, Chicken, Rice, and Mushrooms
- Pour in 6 cups of chicken broth. Add the 1 cup of wild rice (or a wild rice blend), the cooked mushrooms, and the 1 1/2 cups of diced or shredded chicken. Stir everything to combine, then bring the mixture to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the soup simmer for 20-30 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed some of the broth’s flavors. Check the soup occasionally to ensure the rice cooks evenly, and stir to prevent sticking.
Step 5: Add Milk and Cheese
- Once the rice is cooked and tender, stir in 1 cup of milk or cream and 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Cook over low heat until the cheese melts and the soup becomes rich and creamy. The cheese adds a savory depth, while the cream makes the soup luxuriously smooth.
Step 6: Season and Serve
- Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed. Adjust the seasoning based on your preference; the Parmesan already adds some saltiness, so be careful not to overdo it.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with additional fresh thyme or grated Parmesan if desired.
Cooking Note:
- Rice Cooking Time: Wild rice can vary in cooking time depending on the type, so keep an eye on it as it simmers. If using a wild rice blend, it may cook a bit faster than pure wild rice.
- Mushroom Varieties: Feel free to experiment with different types of mushrooms like cremini, shiitake, or portobello to deepen the flavor of the soup.
- Make It Lighter: For a lighter version of this soup, you can use milk instead of cream or opt for a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk or almond milk. Just note that coconut milk will add a subtle sweetness.
Serving Suggestions:
- With Crusty Bread: Serve this rich soup with a side of crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up the creamy broth.
- Salad Pairing: Pair the soup with a light green salad dressed with a lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast to the richness of the soup.
- As a Starter: This soup can also be served as a hearty appetizer or first course before a main dish like roasted chicken or fish.
Tips:
- Make Ahead: This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, you may need to add a splash of extra broth or milk to restore the soup’s creamy consistency.
- Freeze Friendly: This soup freezes well. To freeze, let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. When reheating, thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight and heat on the stove, adding extra broth or milk as needed.
- Extra Vegetables: You can add other vegetables like peas, spinach, or kale to the soup in the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrients and flavor.
Prep Time:
- 15 minutes
Cooking Time:
- 45 minutes
Total Time:
- 60 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: Approximately 450 kcal
- Protein: 24 grams
- Sodium: 850 milligrams
Conclusion
Creamy Mushroom Chicken and Wild Rice Soup is a cozy, satisfying dish that’s perfect for warming up on cooler days. The combination of tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and hearty wild rice creates a well-balanced, flavorful meal that’s easy to prepare and nourishing. The creamy broth, enhanced by Parmesan cheese and milk or cream, makes this soup feel indulgent without being too heavy.
This versatile recipe can easily be adapted to your preferences by swapping out vegetables or adjusting the creaminess to your liking. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or serving it as part of a special meal, this soup will quickly become a favorite for its rich flavors and comforting qualities. Enjoy
