Name: Creamy Wild Rice Chicken Soup with Roasted Mushrooms Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-489747H54M26S
Total time: PT-489747H54M26S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 1/2 cups dry wild rice blend; 6 carrots, chopped; 3 stalks celery, chopped; 2 medium shallots, chopped; 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme or 2 teaspoons dried thyme; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh sage or 1 teaspoon dried sage; 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes; 2 cups fresh baby spinach or kale; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley; 1 cup heavy cream or whole milk; 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese, plus more for serving; Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste; 6 tablespoons salted butter, melted; 2 pounds mixed mushrooms, roughly torn; 2 sprigs fresh rosemary; 4 cloves garlic, smashed; Zest from 1 lemon; Pinch each of kosher salt and black pepper

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 80 reviews

If you’re searching for a soul-warming, flavor-packed dish that feels like a cozy hug in a bowl, you’ve got to try this Creamy Wild Rice Chicken Soup with Roasted Mushrooms Recipe. It’s a creamy, hearty soup brimming with tender chicken, earthy wild rice, and vibrantly roasted mushrooms that add the perfect caramelized bite. The fresh herbs and a hint of spice bring everything together beautifully, making each spoonful a delightful experience that’s as comforting as it is delicious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Inside a stainless steel pot, a creamy soup with visible layers floats. The light beige broth has a smooth texture with small bubbles. Inside are pieces of orange carrots, bright green kale, light green celery, shredded white chicken strips, and dark grains of wild rice scattered throughout. A wooden spoon with a smooth finish is partly submerged on the right side. The pot sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients might sound simple, but trust me, each one plays a crucial role in crafting the rich taste, perfect texture, and vibrant color of this soup. From the wholesome wild rice to the zing of fresh herbs, every item is essential.

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1 pound): Provides tender protein that shreds perfectly into the soup for hearty bites.
Dry wild rice blend (1 1/2 cups): Adds nutty flavor and a pleasantly chewy texture that sets this soup apart.
Carrots, chopped (6): Bring natural sweetness and a pop of color for visual appeal and depth.
Celery, chopped (3 stalks): Adds subtle crunch and classic soup aromatics.
Shallots, chopped (2 medium): Give a mild onion flavor that gently enhances the broth.
Low-sodium chicken broth (6 cups): The savory liquid base that keeps flavors balanced and comforting.
Fresh thyme (2 tablespoons) or dried (2 teaspoons): Aromatic herb that brings earthiness to the soup.
Fresh sage (1 tablespoon) or dried (1 teaspoon): Adds a subtle, woodsy aroma that elevates the flavor complexity.
Crushed red pepper flakes (1/2 teaspoon): Provides a gentle, warming spark without overpowering.
Fresh baby spinach or kale (2 cups): Adds vibrant green color and a nutritious boost.
Chopped fresh parsley (2 tablespoons): Brings freshness and brightens the flavor just before serving.
Heavy cream or whole milk (1 cup): Creates that luscious creamy texture you can’t resist.
Grated parmesan (1/2 cup plus more for serving): Delivers umami richness and delightful melt-in-your-mouth quality.
Kosher salt and black pepper: Essential for balancing flavors throughout the cooking process.
Salted butter (6 tablespoons, melted): Used to roast mushrooms and add richness to the soup.
Mixed mushrooms, roughly torn (2 pounds): Roasted to golden perfection, these deepen the soup’s earthiness.
Fresh rosemary (2 sprigs): Adds fragrant herbal notes that compliment the mushrooms beautifully.
Garlic cloves, smashed (4): Roasted along with mushrooms to infuse the soup with mellow garlic flavor.
Lemon zest from 1 lemon: Adds a subtle citrus brightness that balances richness.

How to Make Creamy Wild Rice Chicken Soup with Roasted Mushrooms Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Soup Base

Whether you’re using a slow cooker, Instant Pot, or stove-top, the process starts the same way by combining wild rice, chopped chicken, garden-fresh vegetables, and fragrant herbs in your cooking vessel. This foundation allows the rice to soak up all the savory broth and aromatic flavors, while the chicken slowly cooks to tender perfection.

Step 2: Cook Chicken and Rice to Tenderness

Slow cook for 5-6 hours or pressure cook for 15 minutes to ensure the wild rice softens fully, releasing its nutty aroma, and the chicken becomes shred-ready. The broth will be infused with the natural sweetness of carrots, the depth of herbs, and a gentle kick from the red pepper flakes.

Step 3: Roast the Mushrooms

Roasting mushrooms with melted butter, garlic, rosemary, and lemon zest at 425 degrees Fahrenheit for about 25-30 minutes transforms them into golden, crispy bites. This step adds an incredible depth and texture contrast when incorporated into the creamy soup base.

Step 4: Finish the Soup

Once the chicken is shredded and added back along with fresh spinach, cream, and parmesan, the soup is gently warmed to meld all elements. Then stir in the roasted mushrooms, crushed garlic, and all the buttery goodness left behind from roasting, creating an unforgettable harmony of flavor and texture.

Step 5: Season and Serve

Finally, fold in fresh parsley for a burst of herbaceous brightness, adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, then ladle the soup into bowls, topping each with a sprinkle of parmesan and a rosemary sprig for that beautiful finishing touch.

How to Serve Creamy Wild Rice Chicken Soup with Roasted Mushrooms Recipe

A white bowl filled with creamy soup that has several layers of texture and color: the soup base is smooth and pale, filled with small grains of rice and tiny pieces of orange carrot and green herbs, floating within it are whole and sliced brown mushrooms that appear soft and cooked, with dark brown roasted edges, and sprigs of green rosemary spread on top. A silver spoon rests inside the bowl on the right side, and the background shows a soft white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan and a sprig of fresh rosemary make this soup look as delightful as it tastes. You can also add a few extra cracked black pepper flakes or a drizzle of good olive oil to enhance presentation and flavor.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty artisan bread or soft dinner rolls to soak up every bit of the creamy broth. A light mixed green salad with a lemon vinaigrette can also provide a refreshing contrast to the rich, hearty soup.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the soup in rustic bread bowls for an eye-catching, cozy presentation. Or layer it in clear glass mugs for a charming, casual serving idea perfect for gatherings. Either way, the Creamy Wild Rice Chicken Soup with Roasted Mushrooms Recipe shines beautifully.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover soup in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it even more delicious the next day.

Freezing

You can freeze this soup in portion-sized containers for up to 2 months. Keep in mind that heavy cream might slightly separate when frozen and reheated, so stirring well helps restore its creamy texture.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and to reincorporate the cream. Adding a splash of broth or water helps adjust the thickness, ensuring the soup feels perfectly smooth and comforting again.

FAQs

Can I use other types of rice instead of wild rice blend?

Absolutely! While wild rice adds a unique texture and nuttiness, you can substitute with brown rice or even white rice. Just adjust cooking times accordingly, as these vary in how quickly they soften.

Is there a vegetarian version of this soup?

Yes, simply omit the chicken and use vegetable broth. You can add extra mushrooms or beans for protein. The roasted mushrooms remain the star ingredient, ensuring lots of flavor.

Can I make the soup without cream?

Sure! For a lighter option, swap heavy cream with whole milk or a plant-based milk. The soup won’t be as rich but will still be comforting and flavorful.

How can I get the mushrooms extra crispy?

Make sure to roast the mushrooms in a single layer and avoid overcrowding the pan. Stirring halfway through cooking helps them brown evenly, giving you that perfect crispness.

What’s the best herb substitution if I don’t have fresh thyme or sage?

Dried herbs are great alternatives; use about one-third the amount of fresh herbs called for. You can also experiment with herbs like marjoram or oregano for slightly different flavor notes.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Wild Rice Chicken Soup with Roasted Mushrooms Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm embrace on a chilly day. It’s cozy, nourishing, and packed with layers of flavor that invite you back for more. I hope you give it a try and fall in love with every comforting bowl as much as I have.