Step 3: Add Rice and Broth
Stir in the wild rice, thyme, and bay leaf. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the soup simmer for about 40–45 minutes, or until the rice is tender but still slightly chewy.
Step 4: Add the Chicken
When the rice is almost cooked, stir in the shredded chicken. Allow it to simmer with the soup for another 5–10 minutes so the flavors can meld together. Remove the bay leaf at this stage.
Step 5: Make the Creamy Roux
In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly, to form a roux. Slowly pour in the heavy cream while whisking until smooth and slightly thickened. This creamy mixture will ensure your soup has a silky texture.
Step 6: Combine Everything
Pour the creamy roux into the soup pot and stir well. Allow the soup to simmer for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to your desired consistency. Adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the soup into bowls, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve hot. Pair it with crusty bread, a side salad, or even homemade biscuits for the ultimate cozy meal.
Tips for Success
- Rice Swap: If you don’t have wild rice, you can use brown rice, but adjust the cooking time since wild rice takes longer.
- Make It Lighter: Substitute milk or half-and-half for cream, though the soup will be less rich.
- Flavor Boost: A splash of dry white wine added while cooking the mushrooms elevates the flavor.
- Meal Prep Friendly: This soup stores well in the fridge for 3–4 days. Just keep in mind that rice absorbs liquid, so you may need to add more broth when reheating.
Final Thoughts
Creamy Mushroom Chicken and Wild Rice Soup is more than just a meal—it’s a bowl of warmth, comfort, and nourishment. Its combination of earthy mushrooms, wholesome rice, and savory chicken, all tied together with a creamy broth, makes it a timeless recipe you’ll find yourself coming back to again and again.
Would you like me to also create a shorter, more casual version of this recipe (like a blog-style quick guide) that you could post on social media or use as a summary?
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