Garlic Parmesan Creamy Mushroom Chicken and Wild Rice Soup

### **Instructions:**

#### **Step 1: Sauté the Chicken**
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the diced chicken. Season with salt and pepper, then cook the chicken until it is browned and cooked through, about 7–8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside.

#### **Step 2: Cook the Vegetables**
In the same pot, add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes soft and translucent, about 3–4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms to the pot, cooking for another 5–7 minutes until the mushrooms release their moisture and become tender.

#### **Step 3: Add the Wild Rice**
Stir in the uncooked wild rice, then add the chicken broth, dried thyme, and dried rosemary. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the rice cook for about 40-45 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the broth is flavorful. Check the rice towards the end of cooking to ensure it’s fully cooked, adding extra broth or water if necessary.

#### **Step 4: Make the Garlic Parmesan Creamy Sauce**
While the soup is simmering, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour, and cook for 2–3 minutes to form a roux (this helps thicken the soup). Slowly add the milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Once the sauce is smooth and thickened, stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, and grated parmesan cheese. Continue to whisk until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.

#### **Step 5: Combine the Soup and Sauce**
Once the rice is fully cooked, return the cooked chicken to the pot. Pour the garlic parmesan creamy sauce into the soup and stir to combine. Let the soup simmer for an additional 5–10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or herbs, if necessary.

#### **Step 6: Serve and Enjoy**
Ladle the soup into bowls, and garnish with extra grated parmesan cheese, fresh herbs like thyme or parsley, or a drizzle of olive oil for added richness. Serve hot with crusty bread or a side salad for the perfect meal.

### **Why This Soup is So Special**

– **Wild Rice**: Wild rice adds a nutty flavor and chewy texture that elevates this soup beyond your average chicken and rice soup. It also packs in fiber and nutrients, making it a healthy addition to this comforting dish.
– **Garlic Parmesan Flavor**: The creamy garlic parmesan sauce is the star of the show here, bringing a luxurious depth of flavor to the soup without being overpowering. The parmesan adds a sharp, salty bite that perfectly complements the richness of the cream and the earthiness of the mushrooms.
– **Chicken and Mushrooms**: The tender chicken and savory mushrooms add both protein and umami, ensuring this soup is filling and satisfying. They also work harmoniously with the garlic and herbs for a savory, mouthwatering experience.

### **Tips for the Best Garlic Parmesan Creamy Mushroom Chicken and Wild Rice Soup**

– **Make It Gluten-Free**: To make this soup gluten-free, simply swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to thicken the sauce.
– **Add More Veggies**: If you’d like to add even more vegetables to the soup, try throwing in some spinach, kale, or carrots during the last few minutes of cooking for added color and nutrition.
– **Make It Vegetarian**: Skip the chicken and add extra mushrooms or even tofu to create a vegetarian version. Vegetable broth can replace the chicken broth for a plant-based option.
– **Storage**: This soup stores wonderfully in the fridge for up to 3 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months—just make sure to store it in an airtight container. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a bit of broth or milk to restore the creamy texture if needed.

### **Conclusion**

If you’re in the mood for a soup that’s both comforting and packed with flavor, **Garlic Parmesan Creamy Mushroom Chicken and Wild Rice Soup** is the perfect choice. With tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, hearty wild rice, and a luscious garlic parmesan broth, this soup is sure to satisfy your hunger and warm you up from the inside out.

Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner, a cozy weekend meal, or as a part of a holiday spread, this soup will quickly become a family favorite. Rich, creamy, and full of flavor—what’s not to love? So, grab your ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy a bowl of this deliciously comforting soup! 🍲✨