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Hearty Chicken and Wild Rice Soup

Hearty Chicken and Wild Rice Soup
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This Hearty Chicken and Wild Rice Soup wraps you in warmth with its rich, savory broth and tender morsels of chicken. A wholesome remedy that transforms chilly days into cozy moments.

Ingredients

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  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 carrots, chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 8 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup wild rice
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering, about 2 minutes. Add diced onion, chopped carrots, and chopped celery, stirring gently. Cook for about 5 minutes until the vegetables soften and become fragrant.
  2. Once the vegetables are tender, stir in minced garlic, cooking for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Sprinkle in dried thyme and oregano, allowing their flavors to bloom.
  3. Pour in chicken broth and add wild rice along with bay leaf. Stir well to combine, ensuring rice is fully submerged. Increase heat to high and bring mixture to a boil.
  4. Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and allow the soup to simmer for 30 minutes.
  5. After 30 minutes, add boneless, skinless chicken breasts to the pot. Cover and cook for an additional 20 minutes. Use meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches internal temperature of 165°F.
  6. Once the chicken is cooked, remove and let it cool slightly. Shred the chicken using two forks, then return shredded chicken to the soup. Stir well to combine.
  7. Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper to your preference. Allow to simmer for an additional 5 minutes to blend flavors. Remove bay leaf before serving. Serve hot, optionally garnishing with fresh herbs.

Notes

  • Use dried wild rice, not instant, to prevent mushiness and achieve the best chewy texture.
  • Fresh garlic is essential for maximum flavor. Avoid pre-minced garlic.
  • For a creamier soup, add a splash of heavy cream before serving or blend a portion of the soup.
  • Rotisserie chicken can be used as a time-saving swap. Add during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
  • Remember to remove the bay leaf before serving.

Nutrition

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