Description

When the chill of winter sets in, there’s nothing more comforting than a bowl of hearty soup to warm your soul. This Creamy Wild Rice Chicken Soup with Roasted Mushrooms combines the wholesome flavors of tender chicken, earthy wild rice, and savory roasted mushrooms for a dish that feels like a hug in every spoonful. Whether prepared in a slow cooker, Instant Pot, or on the stove, this recipe is versatile, easy to follow, and sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 ½ 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
1 tablespoon chopped fresh sage or 1 teaspoon dried
½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
2 cups fresh baby spinach or kale
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
1 cup heavy cream or whole milk
½ cup grated parmesan, 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

Instructions

Slow Cooker Method

Combine wild rice, chicken, carrots, celery, shallots, broth, thyme, sage, crushed red pepper, and seasonings in your slow cooker. Add ½ cup of water. Cover and cook on low for 5-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours.
Shred the chicken with two forks. Stir in the cream, parmesan, and spinach, cooking until warmed through for about 30 minutes. Add parsley and adjust consistency with additional water if needed.
Roast the mushrooms by combining butter, mushrooms, garlic, rosemary, lemon zest, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast at 425°F for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway.
Mash the roasted garlic and stir into the soup along with the mushrooms and any remaining butter.
Serve hot, garnished with rosemary and extra parmesan.

Instant Pot Method

Add rice, chicken, carrots, celery, shallots, broth, thyme, sage, crushed red pepper, and seasonings to the Instant Pot. Cook on high pressure for 15 minutes, then quick-release the steam.
Use the sauté function to shred the chicken, then mix in the cream, parmesan, and spinach. Cook for 10 minutes until warmed.
Roast the mushrooms as described above, then stir them into the soup.
Serve with garnishes and enjoy.

Stove-Top Method

In a large soup pot, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Sauté carrots, celery, shallots, salt, and pepper until fragrant. Add broth, chicken, wild rice, thyme, sage, and crushed red pepper. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 35-45 minutes until rice is tender.
Shred the chicken and mix in the cream, parmesan, and spinach. Cook for 10 minutes until heated through. Add parsley.
Roast the mushrooms as described and stir them into the soup.
Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish, and serve warm.

Why This Soup Stands Out
The combination of creamy broth, tender chicken, and roasted mushrooms elevates this soup from ordinary to extraordinary. The addition of parmesan, fresh herbs, and lemon zest brings layers of flavor, making every bite irresistibly satisfying.

Notes

Serving Suggestions

Garnishes: Serve the soup hot, topped with freshly grated parmesan cheese, a sprinkle of chopped parsley, and a sprig of rosemary for an elegant presentation.
Side Pairings: Pair the soup with warm crusty bread, garlic breadsticks, or a side salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
For Extra Flavor: Add a drizzle of truffle oil or a pinch of crispy fried onions to enhance the earthy flavors.

Storage Tips

Refrigeration: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing: This soup freezes well. Place it in freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving space for expansion. Freeze for up to 3 months. For best results, freeze the soup without the cream and add it when reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, warm the soup on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. If the soup thickens in the fridge or freezer, add a splash of chicken broth or water to achieve your desired consistency.