Gather ’round, dear friends! Today I want to take you on a wonderful little journey to the heart of my kitchen, where steaming pots bubble with warmth and love. I first discovered this Creamy Mushroom Chicken and Wild Rice Soup on a chilly evening when a cozy dinner was in dire need. The smell of sautéed mushrooms enveloped my small kitchen like a soft, warm blanket. As I stirred this luscious concoction, the rich aroma of garlic mingled with the earthy scent of herbs, filling the air and promising a night of delightful comfort.
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With each sip, the creamy texture, the tender chicken, and the nutty wild rice danced on my palate, bringing that warm, fuzzy feeling we all crave on cool nights. This soup is a symbol of love shared with family and friends, making it a beloved staple in my home—and it’s bound to become a favorite in yours too!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Super Simple: A one-pot wonder that makes clean-up a breeze!
- Wholesome Ingredients: Packed with nutritious chicken and hearty wild rice.
- Flavor Explosion: Each spoonful sings with savory goodness and creamy delight.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or a cozy night in!
- Comforting and Cozy: This soup wraps you in warmth, ideal for chilly evenings.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons unsalted butter (28.25 g)
Perfect for sautéing and adding a rich flavor to our soup!16 ounces mushrooms (453.59 g, a mix of shiitake and baby portobello, sliced)
Their earthiness enhances the soup’s flavor profile while adding delightful texture!1 medium onion (diced)
Onions bring that delicious aroma and sweetness, laying the foundation for our soup.2 cloves garlic (minced)
Garlic adds depth and a warm kick that’s simply irresistible.1 teaspoon kosher salt
Enhances all the flavors and makes everything pop!1/4 teaspoon black pepper
A hint of spice to elevate this comforting dish.2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (15 g)
Helps to thicken our lovely soup, creating that creamy texture we adore.3 cups chicken stock (709.77 ml)
The heart of our soup! It adds layers of flavor and warmth.1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts (453.59 g)
Tender and juicy—just what we need for a satisfying soup.2 teaspoons oregano
Earthy and aromatic, oregano adds a lovely depth to each spoonful.1 teaspoon rosemary
A delightful touch of woodsy flavor that complements the mushrooms beautifully.1 teaspoon thyme
This herb freshens up the soup, bringing a hint of nature right into your bowl.1 cup heavy cream (236.59 ml)
This is what turns our soup into a luxurious, creamy dream!3 cups wild rice (492 g, cooked)
Nutty and chewy, wild rice adds a wonderful texture and heartiness.
Full recipe card is below.
How to Make It
Sauté Vegetables
In a large Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. The buttery smell will instantly make your kitchen feel cozy! Add the sliced mushrooms, diced onion, and minced garlic. Sprinkle in the salt and pepper, and sauté until the onions become translucent, about 5–7 minutes. Listen for that lovely sizzle; it’s music to your ears!
Create the Base
Sprinkle in the flour and whisk until it’s all combined—this is where our thickening magic begins! Gradually whisk in the chicken stock, letting it blend beautifully. Carefully place the chicken breasts into the pot, followed by the oregano, rosemary, and thyme. Bring this everything to a gentle simmer; oh, the fragrance is heavenly! Let it cook for about 20 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Your home will be filled with a symphony of comforting smells!
Finish the Soup
Remove the cooked chicken from the pot, shred it with two forks, and return it to the bubbling pot. Now, stir in the heavy cream and that wonderfully cooked wild rice. This ingredient mix makes my heart sing! Take a moment to admire the creamy, dreamy soup you’ve created.
Serve
Ladle the warm soup into bowls, and enjoy every last drop—this is what cozy feels like!
Pro Tips for Success
- Prep Ahead: Chop your veggies the night before for a quick cooking process!
- Mind the Heat: Keep the simmer gentle to ensure chicken stays tender and juicy.
- Don’t Rush the Cream: Adding it slowly enhances the creaminess and richness of the soup.
Flavor Variations
- Herb Twist: Incorporate fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and flavor.
- Add Greens: Toss in a handful of spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for a nutritious boost.
- Spicy Kick: A pinch of red pepper flakes will bring a lovely warmth if you enjoy a little heat!
Serving Suggestions
This creamy soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh garden salad. I love to serve it with some warm, toasted baguette slices, perfect for dipping! And don’t forget a cozy glass of white wine or a sparkling water with lemon for a delightful contrast.
Make-Ahead & Storage
You can prepare the soup a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat when ready to serve. It’ll keep well for 4–5 days!
Leftovers
Use leftover soup as a filling for baked potatoes or puff pastry! You can also toss it in pasta for a wonderful creamy sauce.
Freezing
Yes, you can freeze this comforting soup! Just cool it completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
For the best results, reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently. You can also use the microwave, but be sure to stir every minute to ensure even heating.
FAQs
Can I use other types of rice?
Absolutely! Just adjust the cooking time according to the rice type.
Can this be made dairy-free?
Yes! Swap the heavy cream for coconut milk or a dairy-free alternative.
Is this soup gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, just use a gluten-free flour or cornstarch instead of all-purpose flour.
How can I make it spicy?
Add some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to take the heat up a notch!
Final Thoughts
Cooking this Creamy Mushroom Chicken and Wild Rice Soup is more than just a meal; it’s an experience filled with warmth, laughter, and a sprinkle of love. Dining over a cozy bowl will remind you and your loved ones of the little joys in life. So grab your apron, put on your favorite tunes, and let’s cook up some magic in the kitchen together! Remember, the best meals are made with love, laughter, and a bit of creativity. Happy cooking, my friends!
For the full recipe card, please see below. Enjoy!
Creamy Mushroom Chicken and Wild Rice Soup
Ingredients
Method
- In a large Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms, diced onion, and minced garlic. Sprinkle in the salt and pepper, and sauté until the onions become translucent, about 5–7 minutes.
- Sprinkle in the flour and whisk until it’s all combined. Gradually whisk in the chicken stock, letting it blend beautifully. Carefully place the chicken breasts into the pot, followed by the oregano, rosemary, and thyme. Bring everything to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 20 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Remove the cooked chicken from the pot, shred it with two forks, and return it to the bubbling pot. Stir in the heavy cream and cooked wild rice.
- Ladle the warm soup into bowls, and enjoy every last drop.