When you’re craving a comforting and hearty dish that warms you from the inside out, this Creamy Mushroom Chicken and Wild Rice Soup is the answer. With its rich, velvety broth, tender chunks of chicken, earthy mushrooms, and the nutty chew of wild rice, it’s the perfect cold-weather meal that feels like a hug in a bowl. Whether you’re preparing it for a cozy night in, a family dinner, or to impress dinner guests, this soup brings both comfort and flavor to the table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This soup beautifully combines two beloved classics: creamy mushroom soup and rustic chicken and wild rice soup. The result is a deeply satisfying, flavor-packed dish that offers both texture and richness. The mushrooms lend a savory, umami depth, while the wild rice adds bite and heartiness. Plus, it’s a great make-ahead option — the flavors deepen even more after a day in the fridge.
The ingredients are simple and wholesome, yet the outcome tastes like something you’d find in a cozy countryside bistro.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil
- 1 pound mushrooms (cremini, button, or a mix), sliced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 3/4 cup uncooked wild rice or wild rice blend
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great)
- 1 cup milk or half-and-half
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional for extra creaminess)
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese (optional, for added richness)
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Sauté the mushrooms:
In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, heat the butter or olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms are golden brown and have released most of their moisture.
2. Cook the vegetables:
Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the pot with the mushrooms. Cook for 6–8 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften. Stir in the minced garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper, and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add rice and broth:
Stir in the uncooked wild rice and pour in the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 35–45 minutes, or until the rice is tender.
4. Add chicken and finish with cream:
Once the rice is cooked, stir in the shredded chicken. Add the milk and heavy cream, and let the soup gently simmer (without boiling) for another 5–10 minutes to heat everything through and allow the flavors to meld.
5. Stir in parmesan (optional):
If using, stir in the grated parmesan cheese until melted and well incorporated into the soup.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning:
Taste the soup and adjust with more salt and pepper if needed. If the soup is too thick, add a splash of broth or milk to reach your desired consistency.
7. Serve and garnish:
Ladle the soup into bowls and top with freshly chopped parsley or a bit more parmesan cheese if desired. Serve warm with crusty bread, rolls, or a fresh salad.
Recipe Tips and Variations
- Make it dairy-free: Substitute the cream and milk with unsweetened almond or oat milk, and skip the parmesan or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
- Use pre-cooked rice: For a quicker version, use already cooked wild rice and reduce simmering time by 15–20 minutes.
- Vegetarian version: Omit the chicken and use vegetable broth. Add extra mushrooms or white beans for protein.
- Freezer-friendly tip: Freeze the soup before adding cream or dairy. When reheating, add the cream fresh to maintain a smooth texture.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Mushroom Chicken and Wild Rice Soup is a recipe you’ll find yourself returning to again and again. It’s the kind of dish that makes you slow down, savor each spoonful, and enjoy the simple pleasures of a homemade meal. Whether you’re looking to impress dinner guests or just want a reliable, hearty recipe for meal prep, this soup delivers on every level — warmth, comfort, and flavor.