EASY TO COOK

🍲 Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup 🥕🍗

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This Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup is the perfect comfort food. Loaded with tender chicken, wholesome wild rice, fresh vegetables, and a creamy, savory broth, it’s a hearty meal that will warm you up on a chilly day. Plus, it’s easy to make and full of rich flavor!

📋 Ingredients:

For the Soup:

  • 2 tablespoons butter 🧈
  • 1 medium onion, chopped 🧅
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced 🧄
  • 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced 🥕
  • 2 celery stalks, diced 🌿
  • 1 cup wild rice (or a wild rice blend) 🌾
  • 4 cups chicken broth 🍲
  • 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken 🍗
  • 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half 🥛
  • 1/2 cup milk 🥛
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour 🌾
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme 🌿
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste 🧂

📝 Instructions:

1. Cook the Rice:

  1. Prepare the rice:
  • Cook the wild rice according to the package instructions. This usually takes about 45 minutes to an hour. Set aside once cooked.

2. Prepare the Soup Base:

  1. Sauté the vegetables:
  • In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender.
  1. Add the flour:
  • Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes. This creates a roux, which will help thicken the soup.
  1. Add the broth and spices:
  • Gradually add the chicken broth, stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Add the thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

3. Combine and Cook:

  1. Add the chicken and rice:
  • Stir in the cooked wild rice and shredded chicken. Continue to simmer for about 10 minutes to let the flavors meld.
  1. Add cream and milk:
  • In a small bowl, mix the milk with the heavy cream. Slowly pour the mixture into the soup, stirring constantly. Allow the soup to simmer for another 5 minutes until it’s warmed through and creamy. Avoid boiling the soup after adding the cream to prevent curdling.

4. Serve:

  1. Serve hot:
  • Ladle the soup into bowls and serve immediately. Enjoy it with a crusty piece of bread or a fresh salad on the side.

🍽️ Tips:

  • Make it lighter: Substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or milk for a lighter soup.
  • For a thicker soup: Add an extra tablespoon of flour to the sautéed vegetables for a thicker consistency.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The soup may thicken as it sits; simply add a splash of milk when reheating to adjust the consistency.

⏱️ Preparation Time: 15 minutes
⏱️ Cooking Time: 45 minutes (includes rice cooking time)
🍽️ Servings: 6
🔥 Calories: Approximately 350 kcal per serving

Enjoy this Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup for a comforting, nourishing, and delicious meal that’s sure to satisfy! 🍲🥕🍗