Creamy Chicken & Mushroom Wild Rice Soup
If comfort had a flavor, this soup would be it.
Packed with tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and nutty wild rice, all swimming in a rich, velvety broth, this Creamy Chicken & Mushroom Wild Rice Soup is your answer to chilly nights and cozy cravings.
Bonus? It’s easy, freezer-friendly, and slow cooker-approved—because who doesn’t love a meal that practically cooks itself?
Whether you’re meal-prepping or just need something soul-warming, this one’s a keeper.
Grab a spoon and let the magic happen!
For the Soup Base
- Butter – Adds richness and depth to the soup.
- Onion – Finely chopped for a flavorful base.
- Celery & Carrots – Classic aromatics that enhance the broth.
- Mushrooms – Fresh, sliced mushrooms add an earthy, umami flavor.
- All-Purpose Flour – Helps thicken the soup for a creamy consistency.
- Chicken Broth – Provides a rich, savory base for the soup.
For the Filling
- Cooked Wild Rice – Nutty and slightly chewy, adding great texture.
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts – Cooked and cubed for a hearty protein boost.
- Slivered Almonds – Adds a subtle crunch and nutty flavor.
For Seasoning & Flavor
- Salt & Black Pepper – Enhances the overall taste.
- Curry Powder – Adds a warm, slightly spiced depth.
- Mustard Powder – Brings a hint of tangy complexity.
- Dried Parsley – A touch of herbal freshness.
- Dry Sherry – A splash for extra depth and richness.
For the Creamy Finish
- Half-and-Half – Creates the velvety, creamy texture without being too heavy.
Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Wild Rice Soup
Ingredients
- ½ cup butter
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- ½ cup celery, chopped
- ½ cup carrots, sliced
- ½ pound fresh mushrooms, sliced
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked wild rice
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and cubed
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp curry powder
- ½ tsp mustard powder
- ½ tsp dried parsley
- ½ tsp ground black pepper
- 1 cup slivered almonds
- 3 tbsp dry sherry
- 2 cups half-and-half
Instructions
Sauté Vegetables:
- In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
- Add the onion, celery, and carrots, sautéing for about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the mushrooms and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
Make the Base:
- Sprinkle in the flour and stir well to coat the vegetables.
- Slowly pour in the chicken broth, stirring continuously to avoid lumps.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low.
Combine Ingredients:
- Stir in the cooked wild rice, cubed chicken, salt, curry powder, mustard powder, parsley, black pepper, almonds, and sherry.
- Let the soup warm through.
Add Creaminess:
- Pour in the half-and-half, stirring gently to incorporate.
- Simmer on low for 1 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
- Important: Do not allow the soup to boil, as this may cause the creamy base to separate.
Serve & Enjoy:
- Ladle the soup into bowls and serve warm.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or additional almonds if desired.
1. Can I use pre-cooked chicken and rice?
Yes! Rotisserie chicken and pre-cooked wild rice make this recipe even easier. Just add them in at the final simmering stage, and you’ve got a shortcut to creamy, cozy goodness!
2. How do I boost the flavor if it tastes bland?
Make sure you’ve seasoned well—a pinch more salt can make a world of difference! Try adding a dash of garlic powder, thyme, or a squeeze of lemon to brighten things up. And don’t skip sautéing the veggies until they’re golden—it adds major depth!
3. Can I make this soup dairy-free?
Absolutely! Swap the half-and-half for coconut milk, almond milk, or cashew cream for a dairy-free alternative. You’ll still get that rich, creamy texture without the dairy.
4. Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes! Sauté the veggies first (it’s worth it for the flavor), then transfer everything except the half-and-half to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, then stir in the half-and-half during the last 30 minutes.
5. How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Let the soup cool, then store it in an airtight container—it keeps in the fridge for up to 4 days or the freezer for up to 3 months. When reheating, do it slowly over low heat, stirring occasionally to keep it creamy. Avoid boiling to prevent the dairy from separating.
