Description
Savory Mushroom Chicken and Wild Rice is a hearty, comforting soup loaded with tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and wholesome wild rice simmered in a creamy, herb-infused broth. Perfect for cozy nights or a nourishing family dinner.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into cubes
- 1 cup wild rice, uncooked
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
1. In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat.
2. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until slightly softened.
3. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add mushrooms and cook until they release moisture and turn golden, about 5 minutes.
5. Add the cubed chicken and cook until lightly browned on all sides, about 6–8 minutes.
6. Stir in the wild rice, chicken broth, thyme, rosemary, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.
7. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 40–45 minutes until rice is tender and chicken is cooked through.
8. Remove the bay leaf.
9. Stir in heavy cream or half-and-half and simmer for 5–10 minutes.
10. (Optional) For a thicker consistency, mix cornstarch with a bit of cold water and stir into the soup. Cook for a few minutes until thickened.
11. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed.
12. Serve hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley.
Notes
For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
Substitute turkey for chicken if desired, especially after holidays.
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days; reheat gently on the stove.
Pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or crackers.