Creamy Mushroom Chicken and Wild Rice Soup

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Creamy Mushroom Chicken and Wild Rice Soup

Recipe Overview:

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Servings: 6-8
  • Difficulty: Easy

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb chicken breasts (or thighs), boneless and skinless, diced
  • 1 cup wild rice, rinsed
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (or butter)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 8 oz white mushrooms, sliced
  • 4 cups chicken broth (low-sodium)
  • 1 cup half-and-half or whole milk (for a creamier version, use heavy cream)
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for brightening the soup)

Instructions:

  • Prepare the Wild Rice:
  • In a medium pot, cook the wild rice according to package instructions. This usually takes around 30 minutes. Set aside once done.
  • Cook the Chicken:
  • In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the diced chicken breast, seasoning with salt, pepper, and half of the thyme and rosemary. Cook for 6-8 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
  • Sauté Vegetables:
  • In the same pot, add the chopped onions and garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
  • Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for another 5 minutes until they begin to release their moisture and soften.
  • Combine Broth and Rice:
  • Pour in the chicken broth, stirring to combine with the vegetables. Add the cooked wild rice, the remaining thyme, rosemary, and more salt and pepper to taste.
  • Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  • Add Creaminess:
  • Stir in the half-and-half (or milk/cream) and the cooked chicken. Let the soup simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes until heated through and creamy. If the soup is too thick, you can thin it out by adding more broth or water.
  • Finish the Soup:
  • Taste and adjust seasonings if needed. If you want a slightly tangy flavor, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
  • Garnish with freshly chopped parsley just before serving.
  • Serve:
  • Ladle the soup into bowls and serve with a side of crusty bread or a green salad.

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