Ah, creamy chicken and wild rice soup – a wintertime classic that warms the soul from the inside out. The tender chicken, fluffy wild rice, and velvety smooth cream sauce come together in a symphony of taste that’s both comforting and satisfying. Here’s what you need to whip up this culinary masterpiece:
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup uncooked wild rice blend
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
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Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, celery, and carrots, and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
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Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Stir in the wild rice blend and let simmer for 20 minutes, or until the rice is almost tender.
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Add the chopped chicken breasts, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
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Stir in the milk and heavy cream, and bring the soup back up to a simmer. Gently heat through without boiling.
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Taste and adjust seasonings, if needed.
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Serve hot, garnished with Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley, if desired.
Tips:
- If you prefer a thicker soup, you can stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) into the simmering soup towards the end of cooking.
- For a smoky flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika or a few pieces of smoked bacon while cooking the vegetables.
- This soup is also delicious with other types of rice, such as brown rice or basmati rice. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a saucepan over medium heat.
Creamy chicken and wild rice soup is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a starter, main course, or even a light lunch. It’s perfect for a cozy night in or a potluck gathering. So, gather your ingredients, channel your inner chef, and prepare to indulge in this creamy and comforting wintertime favorite!
