Creamy Mushroom Chicken and Wild Rice Soup

Creamy Mushroom Chicken and Wild Rice Soup is a comforting and hearty dish, perfect for cooler weather. Here’s a recipe to get you started:

Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) chicken breast or thighs, diced
• 8 oz (225g) mushrooms, sliced (cremini or button mushrooms work well)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup wild rice, uncooked
• 4 cups (1 liter) chicken broth
• 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) milk (optional for extra creaminess)
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (for thickening)
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Wild Rice:
   • In a medium pot, cook the wild rice according to the package instructions. Set aside.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
   • In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
   • Add the diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
   • In the same pot, add the remaining olive oil and butter.
   • Sauté the onions and garlic until translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
   • Add the sliced mushrooms, thyme, and rosemary, cooking until the mushrooms are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Make the Soup Base:
   • Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute to get rid of the raw flour taste.
   • Gradually pour in the chicken broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
   • Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat and let it cook for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. Add the Chicken and Cream:
   • Stir in the cooked chicken and wild rice.
   • Pour in the heavy cream (and milk if using), stirring to combine.
   • Cook for another 5-10 minutes until the soup is creamy and heated through. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper.
6. Serve:
   • Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.
   • Serve hot with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

This soup is rich, creamy, and full of flavor, making it a great option for a comforting dinner. Enjoy!