A delightful dish perfect for a cozy dinner combining creamy texture with earthy flavors of mushrooms and hearty wild rice. This comforting soup is both satisfying and nourishing.
Melt 2 tablespoons butter in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add sliced mushrooms and cook until liquid is released and evaporated and mushrooms are deeply browned, about 10-15 minutes. Set aside.
Melt 1 tablespoon butter in the same pot. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until tender, about 8-10 minutes.
Mix in garlic and thyme, cooking until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Add broth, rice, cooked chicken, and sautéed mushrooms. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer until rice is tender, about 20-30 minutes depending on rice type.
Stir in milk or cream and parmesan cheese. Cook on low until cheese melts, about 3-5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Notes
Cooking time varies by rice type. Pure wild rice takes 30+ minutes, while rice blends cook faster around 20-25 minutes. Test a grain after 20 minutes.
Use pre-cooked chicken (rotisserie works great) or cook chicken ahead of time.
Optional: Soak 1 ounce dried mushrooms in 1 cup boiling water for 20 minutes. Chop and add with garlic, include soaking liquid with broth for intense flavor.
Optional: Add 2 tablespoons white miso paste before seasoning for umami depth.
Soup thickens when stored. Add broth or milk when reheating to desired consistency.