Step 1: Sauté the Mushrooms
Start by melting 2 tablespoons of butter in a large pot over medium heat. Once the butter is fully melted, add the sliced mushrooms and sauté them for about 5-7 minutes. The mushrooms should become tender and release their juices, turning golden brown in the process. This creates the base of your soup, contributing a deep, rich flavor.
Step 2: Cook the Vegetables
Add another tablespoon of butter to the same pot, then toss in the diced onion, carrots, celery, and chopped garlic. Sauté the mixture for about 5 minutes, until the vegetables are softened and fragrant. The vegetables will add both texture and sweetness, enhancing the savory base of the soup.
Step 3: Add Thyme and Broth
Stir in 1 teaspoon of fresh thyme to the vegetable mixture, allowing it to cook for an additional minute to release its aroma. Next, pour in 6 cups of chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, lower the heat to a simmer and let it cook for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 4: Incorporate Wild Rice
After the broth has simmered and the vegetables have softened, stir in 1 cup of wild rice. Let the rice cook for 30-40 minutes, or until it’s tender and fully cooked. If using a rice blend, check the package instructions for the correct cooking time.
Step 5: Add Chicken and Cream
Once the rice is ready, add your 1 ½ cups of cooked chicken (shredded or diced) to the pot. Then pour in 1 cup of milk or cream, stirring to combine. For a thicker, richer soup, go with cream; for a lighter version, opt for milk. Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 10 minutes, ensuring everything is heated through.
Step 6: Finish with Parmesan
Finally, stir in 1 cup of freshly grated Parmigiano Reggiano. This cheese adds depth and richness to the soup, creating a velvety finish. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your creamy mushroom chicken and wild rice soup hot, garnished with extra parmesan if desired. Pair it with fresh bread or a light salad for a complete meal.
Why This Creamy Mushroom Chicken and Wild Rice Soup is Perfect for Every Meal
This soup is the epitome of comfort food, combining wholesome ingredients into a bowl of pure indulgence. Here’s why this recipe is so perfect:
A Nutritious, Filling Meal
Packed with protein from the chicken, fiber from the wild rice, and vitamins from the vegetables, this soup is not only delicious but also incredibly nutritious. It’s perfect for those looking for a hearty meal that will keep you satisfied.
Versatile and Easy to Customize
This soup is incredibly versatile. You can easily swap out ingredients based on what you have in your kitchen. For example, you could add other vegetables like peas, corn, or potatoes. You could also substitute the chicken with turkey or add different herbs and spices for unique flavor twists.
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