Mushroom chicken wild rice soup is the kind of meal that wraps you up in a cozy blanket, even when your house looks like a tornado hit the pantry. First, picture this: it’s chilly outside, you’re juggling a mountain of laundry, and your kids are asking what’s for dinner before lunch is even over. Suddenly, the slow cooker becomes your best friend. I toss in a handful of mushrooms, some chicken, and wild rice, and just like that, dinner is basically on autopilot.
Then, the aroma starts sneaking out, making the whole place smell like a dreamy fall afternoon. Honestly, I can’t help but sneak a taste before everyone else. Life isn’t always neat, but this soup always feels comforting and a little bit magical. If you love Fall Season Meals or need a go-to for Winter Recipes Dinner , this one’s a keeper.
My Kitchen Story
So, here’s the real scoop: my kitchen is rarely Instagram-ready. There’s usually a pile of carrot peels on the counter and a wild rice bag that split open at the worst possible moment. However, slow cooker nights save my sanity. Mushroom chicken wild rice soup became a family favorite after one too many rushed evenings. Also, I once forgot to sauté the mushrooms first and, oops, learned the hard way that those golden edges really do make a difference.
Then, I realized this soup is perfect for September Recipes when the air turns crisp, and you crave something hearty. Sometimes, I steal a trick or two from the Easy Slow Cooker Mississippi Chicken Recipe For Tender And Flavorful Dinner for a shortcut. If I’m feeling extra, I’ll glance at the Creamy Ranch Chicken Recipe Made Easy In Your Slow Cooker Crockpot for inspiration.
What Makes It Stand Out
Also, what sets this creamy mushroom and wild rice soup apart is how the slow cooker does all the heavy lifting. You get a rich, homey flavor without hovering over the stove. The wild rice holds up beautifully, and the mushrooms get seriously savory, especially with a handful of Parmesan stirred in at the end. Finally, it’s the kind of soup that feels like a hug—simple, forgiving, and even better when reheated the next day. If you’re hunting for Wild Rice Soup Recipes , this one is always a winner at my table.
What You’ll Need
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Butter | 3 tablespoons |
| 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 |
Handy Kitchen Helpers
When you’re making mushroom chicken wild rice soup, a big sturdy soup pot or Dutch oven is your best friend. I love how the aroma fills the kitchen, especially during those chilly and evenings. If you’re like me and crave easy cleanup, a Crockpot can work too—just toss everything in and let it simmer while you go about your day. For inspiration on slow-cooked meals, check out this Slow Cooker Marry Me Chicken Recipe Easy Dump And Go Crockpot Dinner.
Also, a sharp chef’s knife makes all that veggie chopping a breeze. Some folks swap wild rice for a blend, especially in or recipes, and honestly, it works just fine. If you’re looking for more healthy weeknight ideas, you might enjoy my Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Burrito Bowl Recipe For A Healthy Weeknight Dinner.
Finally, don’t forget to check out the tips on balanced meals at MyPlate.gov. It’s a handy resource when planning nourishing like this, especially if you’re adding more veggies or trying for a family gathering. Mushroom wild rice soup and are favorites in my house, and wild rice soup recipes always seem to bring everyone together around the table.
Step-by-step method for a One-Pot recipe
Step 1
First, melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook, stirring occasionally, until they have released their liquid and it has evaporated, which usually takes about 10 to 15 minutes. Once done, set the mushrooms aside on a plate. This is the base for your mushroom chicken wild rice soup.
Step 2
Next, in the same pot, melt the remaining tablespoon of butter. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook these veggies, stirring often, until they are tender, about 8 to 10 minutes. Then, stir in the chopped garlic and thyme, letting them cook just until fragrant, usually about a minute.
Step 3
After that, pour in the chicken broth, add the wild rice, cooked chicken, and those savory mushrooms you set aside. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Then, reduce the heat, cover the pot, and let everything simmer until the wild rice is tender, usually 20 to 30 minutes. Finally, stir in the milk or cream and the grated Parmesan cheese. Cook just until the cheese melts. Taste, then season with salt and pepper. Now your creamy mushroom chicken wild rice soup is ready to enjoy!
Tips and tricks to make this One-Pot recipe shine
For the creamiest mushroom chicken wild rice soup, try using whole milk or half-and-half instead of skim. Also, wild rice blends cook at different rates, so check your rice for doneness before adding the dairy. If you want a thicker soup, mash a few cooked veggies before stirring in the milk. Sometimes, if I’m in a rush, I use rotisserie chicken. Leftovers taste even better the next day! For more cozy Fall Season Meals, check out these Pan Fried Chicken Piccata Meatballs. Or, if you love one-pot comfort, you might enjoy this One Pot Merry Me Chicken Pasta Creamy Dinner. There’s just something about a big pot of soup simmering on a chilly night that makes everything feel right. Even if you forget to add the thyme at the right moment, it’ll still taste like home. Wild Rice Soup Recipes like this are perfect for September Recipes and all winter long.
What to serve with this One-Pot recipe
First, when you whip up a cozy batch of mushroom chicken wild rice soup, you’ll want something simple on the side. Crusty bread or a warm baguette is always a hit, perfect for dunking. Next, a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette brings a fresh bite that pairs well with the creamy chicken mushroom wild rice soup. If you’re planning a larger spread, consider a platter of roasted root vegetables—these add color and a touch of sweetness to your table, making it a great companion for Fall Season Meals. Also, for those who enjoy themed nights, try serving this soup alongside our Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls or a slice of Baked Mediterranean Flatbread Pizza for a cozy, family-style dinner. Finally, don’t forget a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top just before serving—it brightens every bowl.
How to store and reheat
Storing this one-pot wonder is a breeze. Since everything cooks together, you can simply ladle leftover mushroom wild rice soup into airtight containers. Next, pop them in the fridge for up to four days. If you want to freeze portions, let the soup cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe bags. Also, when reheating, you’ll find the flavors deepen beautifully—just warm gently on the stovetop, stirring often to keep the creamy texture smooth. The one-pot method means fewer dishes and less fuss, making cleanup and storage a real treat, especially during busy Winter Recipes Dinner nights. If the soup thickens up, a splash of broth or water will bring it right back to life.
FAQ
Can I use leftover chicken in this soup?
Yes! Leftover chicken works beautifully in mushroom chicken and wild rice soup. Just add it toward the end so it stays tender.
Is wild rice soup gluten-free?
Usually, yes. Wild rice isn’t wheat-based, so most wild rice soup recipes are gluten-free. Double-check your broth and any thickeners just in case.
What mushrooms are best for this?
Creamy mushroom and wild rice soup shines with cremini, button, or even shiitake mushrooms. Mix and match for more flavor!
How do I keep the soup creamy without dairy?
Try coconut milk or a non-dairy cream. It keeps creamy mushroom and wild rice soup smooth and rich.
Can I make this ahead for September recipes?
Absolutely. September recipes like this soup taste even better after a night in the fridge, letting the flavors meld together.
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
Finally, thanks for stopping by my kitchen and letting me share this chicken mushroom wild rice soup adventure with you. Also, I hope it becomes a regular on your menu, especially as the leaves turn and you crave those comforting fall season meals. If you’re looking for more inspiration, peek at our Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls or treat yourself to a Mediterranean Flatbread Pizza—both are easy and pair well with a cozy soup night. Next, don’t forget to check out the Cooking Method board, especially the One-Pot section, for more easy weeknight winners. If you want to keep up with the latest September recipes and wild rice soup ideas, follow us on Pinterest. Let’s keep sharing these warm bowls and kitchen stories together!