Mediterranean Creamy Mushroom Chicken and Wild Rice Soup
This soup is hearty, comforting, and layered with Mediterranean warmth. The nutty flavor of wild rice blends beautifully with tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and a creamy broth. Aromatics like onion, garlic, and thyme round it out into a balanced bowl that’s filling enough for dinner but light enough to enjoy year-round. Pair it with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Ingredients
Protein: 2 cups cooked chicken breast or thighs, diced or shredded
Grains: 1 cup uncooked wild rice, rinsed
Vegetables:
8 oz mushrooms, sliced (button, cremini, or shiitake)
1 medium onion, diced
2 carrots, peeled and diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
Liquids & Dairy:
6 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream or milk
Seasonings & Fats:
2 tbsp olive oil or butter
1 tsp dried thyme (or 2 tsp fresh thyme)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
Cook Wild Rice: In a medium pot, bring 3 cups water and 1 cup wild rice to a boil. Reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook for about 40–45 minutes, until tender. Drain any excess water. (You can also cook the rice in advance.)
Sauté Vegetables: In a large soup pot, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5–6 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and mushrooms, cooking another 5 minutes until mushrooms release their juices.
Add Broth & Seasonings: Pour in the chicken broth. Stir in thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Let it cook for 15 minutes so flavors meld.
Add Chicken & Rice: Stir in the cooked chicken and wild rice. Simmer for 5 minutes to heat through.
Finish with Cream: Reduce heat to low and stir in the heavy cream (or milk). Simmer gently for 2–3 minutes until creamy but not boiling. Taste and adjust seasoning.
Serve: Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs (parsley or thyme) if desired. Serve warm with bread or a side salad.
Tips
Cook Rice Ahead: Wild rice takes longer to cook, so you can prepare it the day before and store it in the fridge to save time.
Don’t Boil Cream: Once you add cream or milk, keep the soup at a gentle simmer to prevent curdling.
Use Leftover Chicken: Rotisserie chicken or leftover roasted chicken works great and adds extra flavor.
Flavor Boost: A splash of white wine or squeeze of lemon juice at the end brightens the broth.
Texture Control: For a thicker soup, stir in 1–2 tablespoons of flour with the vegetables before adding broth.
Variations
Vegetarian: Omit chicken and use vegetable broth. Add extra mushrooms, chickpeas, or white beans for protein.
Grain Swap: Substitute wild rice with farro, barley, or brown rice for a similar hearty texture.
Herb Choices: Swap thyme with rosemary, oregano, or a Mediterranean blend like herbes de Provence.
Lighter Version: Replace heavy cream with half-and-half, evaporated milk, or Greek yogurt (stir in off-heat).
Mushroom Lovers: Mix mushroom varieties (shiitake, oyster, portobello) for depth of flavor.
Mediterranean Twist: Add sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, or olives for extra flair.
Q&A
Q: Can I use pre-cooked wild rice?
A: Yes, using pre-cooked or packaged wild rice can save time. Just reduce the broth slightly since the rice won’t absorb as much liquid.
Q: Can this soup be made dairy-free?
A: Absolutely. Replace cream with coconut milk or a plant-based alternative for a dairy-free version.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop. If the soup thickens, add a splash of broth or water.
Q: Can I freeze this soup?
A: It freezes well, but add the cream after thawing and reheating for the best texture. Soups with dairy can sometimes separate in the freezer.
Q: What can I serve with it?
A: Crusty bread, pita, or a fresh Mediterranean salad makes a perfect pairing.
Nutrition Facts
(per serving, based on 6 servings)
Calories: ~360
Protein: 25g
Fat: 17g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fiber: 4g
Sodium: 640mg
Calcium: 100mg
(Values will vary depending on portion size and ingredients used.)
Conclusion
This Mediterranean Creamy Mushroom Chicken and Wild Rice Soup is the kind of dish that feels like a hug in a bowl. It’s nourishing, flavorful, and hearty without being heavy. The nutty wild rice, tender chicken, and earthy mushrooms create a satisfying base, while the cream adds a velvety finish. Flexible enough to adapt with different grains or dairy alternatives, it’s a recipe you can make again and again, whether for family dinners or cozy lunches.