Creamy Mushroom Chicken and Wild Rice Soup

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## **Instructions**

### **Step 1: Cook the Chicken**
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the cubed chicken and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.

### **Step 2: Sauté the Veggies**
1. In the same pot, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
2. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing them to release their moisture and shrink.

### **Step 3: Add the Rice and Broth**
1. Stir in the wild rice, dried thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour in the chicken broth, then bring the mixture to a boil.
3. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the soup simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the rice is tender.

### **Step 4: Add Cream and Chicken**
1. Add the whole milk, heavy cream, and the cooked chicken back into the pot. Stir well to combine.
2. Continue simmering for another 10 minutes, allowing the soup to thicken slightly and the flavors to meld together.

### **Step 5: Taste & Adjust**
1. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning if needed with extra salt and pepper.
2. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

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## **Serving Suggestions**
🍞 **With Crusty Bread** – Serve alongside a warm, crusty baguette for dipping.
🥗 **With a Side Salad** – A crisp green salad makes a refreshing contrast to the creamy soup.
🧀 **With Parmesan** – Top each bowl with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.

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## **Storage & Reheating Tips**
– **Refrigerate** leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
– **Freeze** the soup (without cream) for up to 3 months—add the cream when reheating.
– **Reheat** on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. You may need to add a splash of broth or milk to thin it out.

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## **Final Thoughts**
This **Creamy Mushroom Chicken and Wild Rice Soup** is the perfect balance of rich, creamy, and hearty. With its savory chicken, earthy mushrooms, and wholesome wild rice, it’s a soup that feels like a hug in a bowl. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or preparing a meal to enjoy throughout the week, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.

Do you have any favorite variations, such as adding other vegetables or spices? 😊