Cream of Mushroom Chicken Wild Rice Soup.

There’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting bowl of soup to soothe the soul, especially on chilly days. If you’re a fan of rich flavors and hearty ingredients, this Cream of Mushroom Chicken Wild Rice Soup is a delightful choice for your next meal. Packed with tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and nutty wild rice, it’s the perfect blend of flavors that will warm you from the inside out. Plus, it’s simple to make and can easily become a family favorite. Let’s dive into this creamy, dreamy soup that’s sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cream of Mushroom Chicken Wild Rice Soup is not only delicious but also incredibly satisfying. Here’s why you’ll want to make it:

– **Flavorful Ingredients**: The combination of cremini and wild mushrooms creates a depth of flavor that elevates the dish.
– **Nutritious**: Wild rice is a great source of protein and fiber, making this soup a nourishing option.
– **Customizable**: You can easily adapt the recipe to include your favorite vegetables or adjust the creaminess to your liking.
– **Meal Prep Friendly**: This soup stores well, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers.

Shopping List

Before you get started, gather these ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, smashed
• 1/2 sweet onion, chopped
• Kosher salt and pepper
• 6 ounces cremini mushrooms, sliced
• 2 ounces wild mushrooms, sliced
• 1 tablespoon fresh chopped thyme
• 6 cups low sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup wild rice
• 1/2 – 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts or tenders
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan

Equipment at a Glance

To whip up this delicious soup, you’ll need the following kitchen tools:

• Large pot or Dutch oven – For cooking the soup.
• Wooden spoon – To stir the ingredients.
• Sharp knife – For chopping vegetables and slicing mushrooms.
• Cutting board – A safe surface to prep your ingredients.
• Measuring cups and spoons – For precise ingredient measurements.

Cream of Mushroom Chicken Wild Rice Soup. Cooking Guide

Now that you’ve got everything prepped and ready, let’s get into the cooking process!

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the 2 tablespoons of butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, add the 4 smashed cloves of garlic and the 1/2 chopped sweet onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. Don’t rush this step; it builds the flavor base for your soup!

Step 2: Add Mushrooms

Next, add the 6 ounces of sliced cremini mushrooms and 2 ounces of wild mushrooms to the pot. Sauté for another 5-7 minutes until the mushrooms are softened and begin to release their juices. The aroma in your kitchen will be irresistible!

Step 3: Season It Up

Sprinkle in a pinch of kosher salt and freshly cracked pepper to taste, along with 1 tablespoon of fresh chopped thyme. Stir everything together and let the flavors meld for another minute.

Step 4: Introduce the Rice and Broth

Pour in the 6 cups of low sodium chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, add in the 1 cup of wild rice. Lower the heat to a simmer, cover the pot, and let it cook for about 45-50 minutes, or until the rice is tender.

Step 5: Cook the Chicken

While the rice is cooking, season the 1/2 – 1 pound of boneless skinless chicken breasts or tenders with salt and pepper. In a separate skillet, cook the chicken over medium heat until it’s fully cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side depending on thickness. Once cooked, remove from heat and let it rest before slicing it into bite-sized pieces.

Step 6: Combine and Cream It Up

Once the wild rice is tender, add the cooked chicken pieces back into the soup. Stir in 1 cup of whole milk and 1/2 cup of grated parmesan cheese, allowing the cheese to melt into the soup. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper, if needed.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Ladle the Cream of Mushroom Chicken Wild Rice Soup into bowls and garnish with additional thyme or parmesan if desired. Serve hot and enjoy the comforting flavors!

Smart Substitutions

If you want to customize your soup further, consider these substitutions:

• Chicken: Swap the chicken for turkey or tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Mushrooms: Use any combination of mushrooms you prefer, like shiitake or portobello.
• Milk: For a dairy-free alternative, use coconut milk or almond milk.
• Rice: Substitute wild rice with brown rice or quinoa for a different texture.

Notes on Ingredients

When selecting your mushrooms, try to choose fresh ones for the best flavor. If you can’t find wild mushrooms, simply increase the amount of cremini mushrooms. Additionally, be sure to use low sodium chicken broth to control the saltiness of the soup, allowing you to adjust seasoning to your taste.

Storage & Reheat Guide

This Cream of Mushroom Chicken Wild Rice Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat until heated through, adding a splash of milk if it thickens too much. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months, but for best results, freeze without the milk and add it just before serving.

Your Top Questions

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy.

What can I serve with this soup?

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or even grilled cheese sandwiches for a comforting meal.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, this Cream of Mushroom Chicken Wild Rice Soup is gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free chicken broth. Always check labels to be sure.

Can I add vegetables to this soup?

Definitely! Feel free to add in vegetables like carrots, celery, or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.

Weekend Projects

If you’re inspired to get creative in the kitchen this weekend, consider trying out these projects:

• Creamy Chicken Wild Rice Soup
• The Best Chicken Soup
• Easy Vegetable Soup
• Creamy Mushroom Soup

Before You Go

Whether you’re warming up after a cold day or looking for a comforting dish to share with loved ones, this Cream of Mushroom Chicken Wild Rice Soup is sure to be a hit. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it’s a bowl of goodness that’s easy to make and even easier to love. Give it a try, and you might just find it becoming a staple in your kitchen. Happy cooking!