Step 3: Add the Mushrooms
Add the sliced mushrooms to the pot. Sauté for another 5–6 minutes until they release their moisture and turn golden brown. The mushrooms are key—they infuse the soup with deep, earthy flavor.
Step 4: Add Rice and Broth
Stir in the wild rice, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf. Pour in the chicken broth and bring everything to a gentle boil.
Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 45–50 minutes, or until the rice is tender and fully cooked. Wild rice takes longer to cook than white rice, but its chewy texture and nutty flavor are worth the wait.
Step 5: Stir in the Chicken
Once the rice is tender, add the cooked, shredded chicken to the pot. Let it warm through for about 5–10 minutes. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Step 6: Make the Creamy Roux
In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to form a smooth paste (this is your roux). Continue whisking for 1–2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
Gradually pour in the milk (and optional cream) while whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Keep whisking until the mixture thickens slightly—this will take about 4–5 minutes.
Step 7: Combine and Simmer
Slowly pour the creamy mixture into the soup pot, stirring constantly to blend it evenly with the broth. The soup will immediately start to take on a rich, velvety texture.
Let it simmer uncovered for another 10 minutes over low heat, stirring occasionally. If it’s too thick, add a bit more broth or milk until it reaches your desired consistency.
Step 8: Final Touches
Remove the bay leaf and taste-test your soup. Adjust salt, pepper, or herbs as needed. For a finishing touch, sprinkle some fresh parsley or grated Parmesan over each serving.
🍲 Serving Suggestions
Serve this Creamy Mushroom Chicken and Wild Rice Soup with:
- Warm crusty bread or garlic toast
- A fresh green salad for contrast
- A drizzle of olive oil or a pat of butter on top for extra richness
It also reheats beautifully and tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld.
💡 Tips for Success
- Use rotisserie chicken to save time without sacrificing flavor.
- Don’t skip the roux! It’s what gives the soup its creamy body.
- If you’re dairy-free, replace the milk with coconut milk or oat milk and use olive oil instead of butter.
- Wild rice can take longer to cook—be patient. You can pre-cook it if needed.
❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This soup has everything—creamy broth, tender chicken, hearty rice, and the irresistible umami of mushrooms. It’s filling yet cozy, wholesome yet indulgent. Whether you’re fighting off a cold, feeding a family, or just seeking warmth in a bowl, Creamy Mushroom Chicken and Wild Rice Soup is the ultimate comfort meal.
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