Mushroom chicken wild rice soup has a way of making even the gloomiest fall day feel cozy. The first time I made it, I was knee-deep in laundry and the dog had tracked mud across the kitchen, but the smell of sautéed mushrooms and thyme made everything feel a bit more manageable. Honestly, this soup is my go-to when autumn winds start rattling the windows or when I just want to wrap my hands around a warm bowl at the end of a chilly day.
Also, there’s something deeply comforting about the blend of wild rice and creamy chicken that makes you forget about any kitchen chaos you’ve just survived. So, if you’re craving a meal that’s both hearty and soothing, this might be your new favorite for Fall Season Meals or those endless Winter Recipes Dinner nights. Even if your kitchen looks like a tornado hit it, one spoonful makes it all worth it.
Personal Anecdote
First, let me admit: the first time I tackled mushroom chicken and wild rice soup , I didn’t realize wild rice takes longer to cook than my patience usually allows. So, picture me frantically checking the pot every five minutes, convinced something had gone terribly wrong. Also, my kids were circling like vultures, asking when dinner would be ready. That’s when I remembered the magic of letting soup simmer—good things do take time. Sometimes, I’ll sneak in a peek at another cozy recipe like Best Easy Mississippi Chicken Recipe for a Cozy Family Dinner while the wild rice does its thing.
However, I’ve learned to embrace the beautiful mess. There’s nothing like the rich aroma of mushrooms and thyme filling the house while the kitchen counter disappears under a pile of cutting boards and veggie peels. The best part? Even if your kitchen looks like a disaster zone, once you ladle out that first serving, no one remembers the chaos. It’s just comfort in a bowl.
Why This Recipe is Special
So, why does this creamy chicken mushroom wild rice soup deserve a spot in your dinner rotation? Not only is it the ultimate September Recipes pick, but it also brings everyone to the table—no fancy ingredients, just honest, homey flavors. Plus, you can use leftover chicken, which means less stress after a busy day. Finally, if you love hearty Mushroom Wild Rice Soup or want something as satisfying as this Best Easy Chicken Piccata with Mushrooms and Capers for Dinner, this soup is a winner.
Also, nothing says wild rice soup recipes quite like this blend of earthy mushrooms, tender chicken, and creamy broth. It’s a hug in a bowl, perfect for those nights when you need a little warmth and a lot of flavor.
Ingredients breakdown
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Butter | 2 tablespoons + 1 tablespoon |
| Mushrooms, sliced | 1 pound |
| Onion, diced | 1 |
| Carrots, diced | 2 |
| Celery, diced | 2 stalks |
| Garlic, chopped | 2 cloves |
| Thyme, chopped | 1 teaspoon |
| Chicken broth | 6 cups |
| Wild rice or blend | 1 cup |
| Cooked chicken, diced or shredded | 1 1/2 cups |
| Milk or cream | 1 cup |
| Parmigiano Reggiano (Parmesan), grated | 1 cup |
| Salt and pepper | to taste |
Utensils and substitutions
When making mushroom chicken wild rice soup, I usually reach for a sturdy soup pot, a wooden spoon, and a sharp knife. If you don’t have wild rice, a hearty brown rice blend works too and still gives that lovely chewy bite. Sometimes I swap cream for milk if that’s what I’ve got on hand, and honestly, both versions are delicious.
First, if you’re new to cooking fall season meals, don’t stress about fancy tools—just a good pot and basic utensils will do the job. I know some folks can’t do dairy, so unsweetened oat milk or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast can bring a touch of creaminess instead of Parmesan. For more easy family dinner ideas, check out my favorite Best Creamy Ranch Chicken Dinner Easy Kid Friendly Family Approved recipe.
Also, if you like a twist on classic winter recipes dinner, try adding spinach or kale in the last few minutes for a pop of color. For food safety tips on storing leftover creamy chicken mushroom wild rice soup, I always peek at foodsafety.gov for the latest advice. And if you love chicken, don’t miss my Best Easy Chicken Piccata Meatballs Family Approved Dinner Recipe for another comforting meal.
Step-by-step method for a mushroom chicken wild rice soup
Step 1
First, melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook, stirring now and then, until they release their liquid and that liquid cooks off. This usually takes about 10 to 15 minutes. Set the mushrooms aside when they’re golden and fragrant.
Step 2
Next, in the same pan, melt the remaining tablespoon of butter. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Stir and cook until the veggies are soft and a little sweet, about 8 to 10 minutes. Then, toss in the chopped garlic and thyme. Let them cook for just a minute, until your kitchen smells amazing.
Step 3
After that, pour in the chicken broth, wild rice, cooked chicken, and the mushrooms you set aside. Bring everything to a gentle boil, then lower the heat and cover. Let the soup simmer for 20 to 30 minutes, until the wild rice is perfectly tender. Finally, stir in the milk and grated Parmesan. Keep stirring until the cheese melts into the soup. Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.
Tips and tricks to make this Soup recipe shine
For a cozy dinner on a chilly night, use rotisserie chicken to save time. If you love a thicker soup, use cream instead of milk and let it simmer a few extra minutes. Also, wild rice can take longer to cook, so check for doneness before serving. Sometimes I add extra carrots for sweetness. For more hearty dinner ideas, check out Best Cozy Marry Me Chicken Soup Recipe Easy Hearty Family Approved and if you want something creamy and comforting, Easy Crockpot Chicken Alfredo Pasta Cozy Family Dinner Idea is a family favorite. Mushroom wild rice soup is perfect for both Fall Season Meals and Winter Recipes Dinner , so keep this recipe handy for those times you need something warm and filling. Sometimes, a sprinkle of fresh parsley or more Parmesan right before serving gives it a lovely finish.
What to serve with this Soup recipe
First, when you’re serving mushroom chicken wild rice soup, you want sides that soak up every last bit of that creamy broth. Crusty whole grain bread or a batch of homemade dinner rolls are perfect. Next, a simple green salad with crisp apples and toasted seeds adds a fresh crunch and balances the warmth of the soup. If you’re craving something heartier, roasted root vegetables or a light veggie quiche can turn this into a full meal. Also, for a cozy dinner party, consider pairing this soup with our Easy Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage Cozy Dinner Recipe. It’s a winning combo for chilly nights. Finally, if you love easy chicken dishes, our Best Easy Mississippi Chicken Recipe for a Cozy Family Dinner is another reader favorite for family-style meals.
How to store and reheat
First, let your mushroom chicken wild rice soup cool to room temperature before storing. Next, place it in airtight containers and refrigerate for up to four days. If you need to keep it longer, freeze in single portions for up to three months. When reheating, gently warm on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring often so the creamy texture stays smooth. Also, add a splash of broth or milk if it thickens up too much after chilling. Finally, remember, this soup is just as tasty the next day, making it a great make-ahead option for busy weeks or lazy weekends.
FAQ
Can I use leftover cooked chicken?
Yes, you can stir in shredded cooked chicken towards the end of cooking. This is a great way to use up leftovers and save time.
What kind of mushrooms work best?
Cremini or baby bella mushrooms give a deep, earthy flavor, but white button mushrooms work too. Mix and match for extra depth.
Is this soup gluten-free?
Most versions are gluten-free if you use wild rice and check your broth labels. Always double-check ingredients to be safe.
How can I make it dairy-free?
Swap the cream for full-fat coconut milk or your favorite non-dairy alternative. The soup will still be rich and satisfying.
Can I freeze this soup?
Absolutely! Portion into containers and freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Print
Mushroom Chicken Wild Rice Soup
- Total Time: 50-60 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Heart Healthy
Description
A creamy and hearty soup combining earthy mushrooms, tender chicken, and nutritious wild rice simmered in a flavorful broth and finished with cheese.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons butter
1 pound mushrooms, sliced
1 tablespoon butter
1 onion, diced
2 carrots, diced
2 stalks celery, diced
2 cloves garlic, chopped
1 teaspoon thyme, chopped
6 cups chicken broth
1 cup wild rice or a blend including wild rice
1 1/2 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded
1 cup milk or cream
1 cup grated Parmigiano Reggiano (Parmesan)
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. In a pan over medium-high heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their liquids and the liquid evaporates, about 10 to 15 minutes. Set mushrooms aside.
2. In the same pan, melt 1 tablespoon butter. Add diced onion, carrots, and celery; cook until tender, about 8 to 10 minutes.
3. Stir in chopped garlic and thyme; cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
4. Add chicken broth, wild rice, cooked chicken, and mushrooms. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer covered until rice is tender, about 20 to 30 minutes.
5. Stir in milk and grated Parmesan cheese; cook until cheese melts.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.
Notes
Prepare wild rice blend as desired for additional texture.
Use low-fat milk or cream for a lighter version.
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently to prevent curdling.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 650 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg
Soup season is honestly the best, don’t you think? This mushroom chicken wild rice soup brings together everything I love about cozy dinners: rich flavors, easy prep, and plenty for leftovers. Next, if you’re planning ahead or just want more comforting recipes, check out our Best Easy Mississippi Chicken Recipe and our Butternut Squash Gnocchi. Also, don’t forget, this soup fits perfectly on your Dinner board, but honestly, I enjoy a bowl for lunch or even a hearty snack. Finally, for more wild rice soup recipes and meal inspiration, follow us on Pinterest—I’d love to see your creations and swaps!