Savory Mushroom and Chicken Wild Rice Soup with Parmesan

There’s something irresistible about a bowl of warm, creamy soup on a crisp day—or frankly, any day. Our Savory Mushroom and Chicken Wild Rice Soup with Parmesan is the perfect combination of rich flavors, tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and hearty wild rice. Finished with a touch of creamy Parmesan, this soup is more than just a meal; it’s comfort in a bowl.

Whether you’re seeking a cozy weeknight dinner, a satisfying lunch, or a make-ahead meal that warms you from the inside out, this soup checks every box. It’s hearty, flavorful, and simple enough for home cooks of all levels.

Why This Soup Stands Out

While many soups are simple and light, this recipe is a hearty, satisfying bowl of goodness. Every spoonful delivers a combination of textures and flavors that makes it feel indulgent, yet wholesome. Here’s why it’s a must-try:

• Rich, creamy, and comforting: The Parmesan and cream or milk add lusciousness without overwhelming the natural flavors of the chicken and mushrooms.
• Hearty and filling: Wild rice and chicken provide protein and fiber for a truly satisfying meal.
• Layered flavors: Sautéing mushrooms and vegetables before simmering develops deep, savory notes.
• Flexible and versatile: Works with leftover chicken, different mushrooms, or your choice of cream or milk.
• Perfect for any season: Cozy on a chilly evening, yet satisfying in any season when you need comfort food.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Earthy, savory flavor: Mushrooms and thyme infuse the broth with a rich, earthy aroma.
• Creamy texture: A touch of milk or cream combined with Parmesan creates velvety smoothness.
• Hearty ingredients: Wild rice and chicken make it a filling meal on its own.
• Easy to make: No complicated steps—just sauté, simmer, and enjoy.
• Customizable: Swap ingredients for dietary needs, like using a dairy-free milk alternative or adding extra vegetables.

Ingredients Breakdown

Here’s everything you’ll need for this comforting soup, organized for clarity:

Main Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 pound mushrooms, sliced
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 stalks celery, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, chopped
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped

Liquid & Rice

• 6 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup wild rice (or wild rice blend)

Protein & Creaminess

• 1 ½ cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded
• 1 cup milk or cream
• 1 cup Parmigiano Reggiano (Parmesan), grated

Seasoning

• Salt and pepper, to taste

Yield: Serves 4–6 generously

Tools & Equipment Needed

• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Large soup pot or Dutch oven
• Chef’s knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Ladle for serving
• Optional: Grater for Parmesan

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these detailed steps for the best results:

1. Cook the Mushrooms

Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and it evaporates, about 10–15 minutes. The mushrooms should be golden brown and flavorful. Remove from the pan and set aside.

2. Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pan, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 8–10 minutes until the vegetables are tender and fragrant. This step develops the base flavor of your soup.

3. Add Garlic and Herbs

Stir in the chopped garlic and 1 teaspoon of fresh thyme. Cook for about 1 minute until the garlic is aromatic, being careful not to burn it.

4. Simmer the Soup

Pour in 6 cups of chicken broth, then add 1 cup wild rice, 1 ½ cups cooked chicken, and the sautéed mushrooms. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and simmer, covered, for 20–30 minutes until the rice is tender. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

5. Finish the Soup

Stir in 1 cup milk or cream and 1 cup grated Parmesan. Continue cooking until the cheese melts and the soup is creamy. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.

6. Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls, sprinkle with additional Parmesan if desired, and serve warm. This soup is perfect on its own or paired with crusty bread.

Tips & Variations

• Vegetable Boost: Add zucchini, green beans, or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
• Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut milk or unsweetened almond milk instead of cream or milk.
• Low-Sodium: Use low-sodium broth and adjust salt at the end.
• Extra Herbs: Add rosemary or parsley for an aromatic twist.
• Make it Creamier: Blend a portion of the soup for a smoother, velvety texture.

Flavor Profile & Pairings

• Taste: Savory, earthy, and slightly nutty from Parmesan.
• Texture: Creamy soup with tender chicken, chewy wild rice, and lightly crisp vegetables.
• Sides: Enjoy with garlic bread, a fresh salad, or warm crackers for a complete meal.

Nutritional Overview

Approximate nutrition per serving (based on 6 servings):

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	350 kcal
Protein	24 g
Carbohydrates	28 g
Fat	16 g
Saturated Fat	9 g
Fiber	3 g
Sugar	3 g

Dietary Considerations: Gluten-free if using certified gluten-free broth and rice, high in protein, can be made lower-fat by using milk instead of cream.

Make-Ahead & Meal Prep Tips

• Prep Ahead: Dice vegetables and cook the chicken ahead of time for faster assembly.
• Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm gently over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If soup is too thick after refrigeration, add a splash of broth or milk to restore creaminess.

FAQs

1. Can I use different mushrooms?
Yes, cremini, shiitake, or portobello mushrooms add unique flavors and textures.

2. Can I use cooked chicken from a rotisserie?
Absolutely—rotisserie chicken works perfectly and saves prep time.

3. Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Replace chicken with extra mushrooms or beans, and use vegetable broth.

4. Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, but leave out the milk or cream when freezing. Add fresh when reheating for best texture.

5. How long does wild rice take to cook?
Wild rice usually takes 20–30 minutes to become tender. If using a blend with white rice, adjust cooking time accordingly.

Cooking Timeline (At a Glance)

Step	Time
Prep Ingredients	15 minutes
Cook Mushrooms	10–15 minutes
Sauté Vegetables & Herbs	9–11 minutes
Simmer Soup	20–30 minutes
Finish with Milk & Parmesan	5 minutes
Total Time	45 minutes

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with garlic bread or crusty baguette slices for dipping.
• Pair with a side salad for a lighter meal.
• Garnish with extra Parmesan or fresh thyme for visual appeal and flavor boost.

Recipe Variations

1. Creamy Mushroom & Chicken Wild Rice Casserole: Pour finished soup into a casserole dish, top with bread crumbs and bake until golden brown.
2. Spicy Mushroom & Chicken Soup: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for a gentle heat.
3. Vegetable-Packed Version: Incorporate zucchini, peas, or kale for more fiber and nutrients.
4. Cheesy Wild Rice Soup: Stir in extra Parmesan or Gruyère for an even creamier, cheesy delight.

Ingredient Spotlight

Wild Rice

• Selection: Choose long-grain wild rice or a wild rice blend for chewy, nutty texture.
• Cooking Tip: Rinse rice before cooking to remove excess starch and prevent clumping.
• Storage: Store uncooked rice in a cool, dry place for up to 6 months.

Mushrooms

• Selection: Cremini or white button mushrooms are ideal for this recipe.
• Enhancement: Sauté until golden brown for deep umami flavor.
• Storage: Keep fresh mushrooms in a paper bag in the refrigerator; use within 5 days.

Pro Cooking Tips

• Don’t overcrowd mushrooms in the pan—they steam rather than brown.
• Cook the vegetables until soft and aromatic before adding broth for deeper flavor.
• Stir in Parmesan at the end to prevent it from curdling and to maintain smoothness.
• Taste and adjust seasoning at the end; cheese adds saltiness, so balance accordingly.

Storage & Freezing Guide

• Refrigeration: Store in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze soup without milk/cream; add fresh when reheating.
• Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop, stirring occasionally. If too thick, add extra broth or milk to reach desired consistency.
• Do’s & Don’ts: Do not freeze with Parmesan already added; it may become grainy.

Nutrition Estimate Table (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	350 kcal
Protein	24 g
Carbohydrates	28 g
Fat	16 g
Saturated Fat	9 g
Fiber	3 g
Sugar	3 g

Dietary Notes: High-protein, gluten-free, can be made dairy-free with substitutions, hearty and filling.

Expanded Conclusion

This Savory Mushroom and Chicken Wild Rice Soup with Parmesan is a quintessential comfort food—rich, creamy, and packed with hearty ingredients that satisfy both appetite and soul. With tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and nutty wild rice simmered in a savory broth and finished with Parmesan, every spoonful is warming and indulgent.

Perfect for weeknights, family dinners, or make-ahead meals, this soup is versatile, flavorful, and approachable. Serve it with a slice of crusty bread, sprinkle a bit more Parmesan on top, and savor the cozy, comforting flavors. It’s a recipe you’ll return to again and again whenever you crave warmth, comfort, and a touch of gourmet goodness at home.

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