Creamy Mushroom Chicken Wild Rice Soup Recipe

Posted on October 18, 2025

Cozy Mushroom Chicken Wild Rice Soup

There’s something undeniably satisfying about a steaming bowl of creamy mushroom chicken wild rice soup on a cold evening. This dish is the perfect blend of comfort food and nutritious ingredients, delivering flavor and warmth in every spoonful. Featuring a rich, velvety base filled with earthy mushrooms, tender chicken, and nutty wild rice, it’s a meal that feels both hearty and wholesome. Whether you’re curled up on the couch or serving a weeknight family dinner, this cozy soup recipe delivers the kind of nostalgic satisfaction that never goes out of style.

This soup doesn’t just taste good—it’s a smart option for meal prep, lunch leftovers, or a freezer-friendly batch you can rely on when time is tight. Many home cooks love how easy it is to customize with ingredients already in the pantry, making it a versatile staple for every kitchen. Adding in wild rice provides a chewy texture and nutty depth that sets it apart from ordinary chicken soups. Learn more about what makes wild rice so unique here.

One of the key flavor contributors in this dish is the mushroom. Their umami richness elevates the broth and pairs beautifully with creamy textures and subtle herbs. There are many types to choose from, such as white button, baby bella, or cremini—each bringing their own unique note. Learn more about mushroom varieties and their uses in cooking from this detailed Wikipedia article on mushrooms.

The popularity of chicken wild rice soup also comes from its adaptability. You can lighten it up with dairy-free options, bulk it up with extra vegetables, or swap proteins based on preference. From busy weeknights to lazy Sundays, this dish has a spot in every home cook’s rotation. Whether you’re craving a fall soup, prepping meals in advance, or simply looking for a way to use up leftover chicken, this recipe checks every box. For some inspiration, check out this Pinterest board of cozy fall soups.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This creamy mushroom chicken wild rice soup isn’t just a dish—it’s a weeknight hero and a seasonal favorite that hits all the right notes. Here’s why home cooks keep coming back to this satisfying recipe again and again:

Simple ingredients, big flavor: With everyday staples like chicken, carrots, celery, and wild rice, this soup offers depth and comfort without requiring a trip to a specialty store.
Perfectly creamy without being heavy: A balance of milk and heavy cream creates a luxurious texture while still feeling light enough to enjoy as a full meal.

Meal prep magic: Make a batch on Sunday and enjoy comforting, nutritious lunches all week long. The flavors even improve after a day in the fridge.
One-pot convenience: Fewer dishes mean less cleanup and more time to relax.
Family-friendly and customizable: Whether you need to go gluten-free, dairy-free, or prefer plant-based swaps, this soup is easy to modify. Swap in coconut milk or oat milk for a dairy-free version, or use white beans instead of chicken for a vegetarian twist.

This dish also earns high marks for nutritional value. Wild rice is naturally rich in antioxidants, fiber, and protein, making it more nutrient-dense than white rice. For more details about its nutritional profile, check out this article on wild rice.

If you’re interested in exploring more satisfying chicken soup recipes, don’t miss this curated Pinterest board filled with delicious ideas to warm you up all season long.

Ingredients Breakdown & Tips

Creating a delicious bowl of creamy mushroom chicken wild rice soup starts with understanding how each ingredient contributes to the dish. This section explores the flavor-building elements, helpful substitutions, and tips for success.

Main Ingredients

Chicken: Use shredded cooked chicken for convenience. Leftover rotisserie chicken works great and adds additional depth. Learn more about chicken’s culinary uses in this Wikipedia article.
Mushrooms: Cremini, white button, or baby bella mushrooms provide earthy richness. Slice them evenly for consistent texture. Sautéing them thoroughly enhances their umami profile.
Wild Rice: Its nutty, chewy texture is essential for this soup. Unlike white rice, wild rice holds up well in creamy soups without becoming mushy. For texture and nutritional benefits, it’s an ideal choice.

Aromatics: Onion, garlic, carrots, and celery form the flavor base, known in culinary terms as mirepoix. These vegetables build the soup’s savory backbone.
Broth: Use chicken broth for rich flavor. Opt for low-sodium to control salt levels.

Creamy Elements

Milk + Heavy Cream: These two create a luscious, silky base. Heavy cream thickens the soup naturally. Explore more about heavy cream’s culinary role in this Wikipedia entry.
Flour + Butter (optional): Making a roux with butter and flour before adding it to the soup gives extra thickness. Read about the science behind roux here.

Herbs & Seasonings

Thyme & Rosemary: These dried herbs complement mushrooms and chicken with woodsy warmth.

Salt & Pepper: Add gradually to taste—especially if your broth is already salted.

Optional Additions

Parsley: A fresh garnish that adds color and brightness.
Red pepper flakes: For a hint of heat.
Lemon juice: A splash at the end can lift all the flavors.

Ingredient Swaps and Variations

Use plant-based milk like oat or almond milk to make it dairy-free.

For a vegetarian version, substitute chickpeas or tofu for chicken and vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Replace wild rice with a rice blend if wild rice isn’t available, though the texture will differ.

Need more soup recipe variations? Visit this Pinterest board of wild rice soup ideas for creative twists on this classic.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Crafting a flavorful creamy mushroom chicken wild rice soup is simple when broken down into clear, manageable steps. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced cook, this method ensures a satisfying, rich result every time.

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
Add 1 small diced onion and 3 minced garlic cloves.

Cook for about 3–4 minutes until translucent and fragrant. This forms the flavor base of the soup.

Add the Vegetables

Stir in 8 oz of sliced mushrooms, 2 chopped carrots, and 2 chopped celery stalks.
Sauté for 5–7 minutes until vegetables start to soften and mushrooms begin releasing their juices.
At this stage, the base should smell rich and savory—ideal for building depth.

Season the Soup

Add 1 tsp each of dried thyme and rosemary, plus salt and black pepper to taste.

These herbs provide a woodsy, comforting aroma that blends perfectly with mushrooms and chicken.
Stir to coat the vegetables evenly.

Cook the Wild Rice

Pour in 6 cups of chicken broth and add 1 cup of uncooked wild rice.
Stir well and bring to a boil.

Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 45–50 minutes until the wild rice is tender and starting to split.

Need tips for cooking with wild rice? This Wikipedia page has more on wild rice cooking times and benefits.

Add Chicken and Dairy

Stir in 2 cups of cooked shredded chicken, 1 cup of milk, and 1 cup of heavy cream.

Let it simmer uncovered for another 5–10 minutes to warm through without boiling (which can cause dairy to curdle).
For extra flavor and texture ideas, browse this Pinterest board on meal prep soups.

Optional: Thicken the Soup

In a small pan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter, then whisk in 2 tablespoons of flour to form a roux.
Cook the roux for 1–2 minutes, then stir it into the soup and let simmer until thickened slightly.

Want to know how a roux works in soup thickening? Read this Wikipedia article for culinary insights.

Taste and Adjust

Sample the soup and adjust seasoning if needed.
Add a splash of lemon juice or extra pepper if desired.

Garnish and Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls and top with chopped fresh parsley.
Serve with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete, comforting meal.

Looking to explore more satisfying soup recipes? This Pinterest collection has ideas that pair well with this dish or provide variation.

Tools & Equipment Needed

To make this creamy mushroom chicken wild rice soup as effortlessly as possible, having the right kitchen tools on hand is key. These basic items help streamline the process and ensure consistent results every time.

Large Soup Pot or Dutch Oven
A heavy-bottomed pot helps distribute heat evenly, preventing scorching and ensuring the wild rice and vegetables cook thoroughly. A Dutch oven also retains heat well, ideal for slow simmering.
Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula
Use this to stir your soup as it simmers. Silicone is great for nonstick surfaces, and a wooden spoon won’t scratch your cookware.
Sharp Chef’s Knife & Cutting Board
Essential for prepping vegetables like onion, carrots, celery, and mushrooms. A sharp knife ensures clean cuts and quicker prep.

Measuring Cups and Spoons
Precision matters, especially for the creamy base and roux. Use dry and liquid measuring cups accordingly.
Small Saucepan (optional)
Needed if you plan to make the optional roux for thickening. A nonstick pan works best for whisking butter and flour.
Ladle for Serving
Makes it easy to dish up consistent portions and keep the presentation clean.

Optional: Immersion Blender
If you prefer a partially pureed soup for a thicker texture, blend about 1–2 cups of the finished soup before adding back to the pot.

For visual soup prep inspiration, explore this Pinterest board for tool setups and presentation tips.

Nutritional Value & Benefits

This soup is not only comforting—it’s packed with nutrients that make it a smart choice for everyday meals. Here’s how the key ingredients support a balanced diet:

Chicken: A lean protein source that supports muscle repair and keeps you full longer. Rotisserie chicken or leftover roasted chicken also adds flavor without much added fat.
Wild Rice: Rich in fiber, antioxidants, and essential minerals like magnesium and zinc. It’s also lower in calories than white rice and has a satisfying, chewy bite. Learn more about its health benefits from this wild rice article.

Mushrooms: Loaded with umami flavor and nutrients like B vitamins, selenium, and potassium. They are low in calories and may help boost immune health. See more on mushrooms here.
Vegetables (carrots, celery, onion): Provide fiber, vitamins A and C, and natural sweetness to balance the savory profile of the soup.
Cream and Milk: Add richness and body to the soup. For a lighter version, use low-fat milk or plant-based options such as oat or almond milk.

Optional Roux (butter + flour): Adds thickness but also a small amount of fat and calories. Skip this if you’re looking for a lower-fat option.

With high protein, fiber, and plenty of vegetables, this dish offers comfort without compromising on nutrition. It’s a wholesome option for cozy evenings, especially when paired with a light salad or roasted veggies. Check out these cozy fall soups on Pinterest for more inspiration.

Variations on the Recipe

This soup is delicious as written, but it’s also highly customizable depending on your preferences or dietary needs.

Vegetarian Version

Swap the chicken for white beans or chickpeas.
Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Add extra mushrooms for a deeper, more robust flavor.

Slow Cooker Version

Add all ingredients except the dairy to the slow cooker.
Cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
Stir in the milk and cream 30 minutes before serving to prevent curdling.

Instant Pot Method

Use the sauté function for the aromatics.
Add broth, rice, veggies, and seasonings.
Cook on high pressure for 30 minutes, then naturally release for 10 minutes.
Stir in cream and chicken after releasing pressure.

Low-Calorie or Dairy-Free Version

Use unsweetened almond or oat milk in place of dairy.
Skip the heavy cream and roux to reduce fat.
Add extra herbs or a splash of lemon for brightness.

Need more variation ideas? This Pinterest board for wild rice soups is a great source of creative spins on the classic.

How to Store, Freeze & Reheat

Proper storage ensures you can enjoy this soup for days or even weeks without compromising flavor or texture.

Refrigerating

Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Let the soup cool completely before refrigerating to avoid condensation.

Freezing

Omit the dairy before freezing for best results. Add cream and milk after reheating.
Freeze in individual portions for easy thaw-and-serve lunches.
Use freezer-safe containers and label with the date.

Reheating

On the stovetop: Reheat over medium-low, stirring occasionally to maintain creamy consistency.
In the microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 60-second intervals, stirring between each round.
If soup has thickened in storage, add a splash of broth or milk to loosen it.

For tips on prepping soups for busy weeks, check out this Pinterest collection of meal prep soup recipes.

What to Serve with Mushroom Chicken Wild Rice Soup

A rich and hearty soup like this is perfectly satisfying on its own, but pairing it with a few simple sides can elevate your meal.

Crusty Bread or Garlic Toast: Ideal for dipping and soaking up the creamy broth.
Side Salad: Choose something crisp and refreshing, like a balsamic-dressed arugula or kale salad.
Roasted Vegetables: Brussels sprouts, green beans, or sweet potatoes pair well.
Crackers or Biscuits: A buttery biscuit or savory cracker adds a great textural contrast.

Looking for presentation ideas or serving inspo? See how others style this dish on this Pinterest board.

Make-Ahead Tips & Meal Prep Ideas

This soup is ideal for make-ahead meals, whether you’re planning lunches for the week or prepping dinner in advance.

Prep Ingredients in Advance: Chop all vegetables and shred the chicken up to two days ahead. Store them in airtight containers in the fridge.
Cook Wild Rice Separately: If you want to avoid overcooked rice, prepare it on the side and add it just before serving.
Freeze Base Without Dairy: Prepare everything except the milk and cream, then freeze. Add the dairy when reheating for the freshest flavor and texture.
Portion Into Jars or Containers: Perfect for individual servings—just grab and go!

For more ideas on prepping soup for the week, check out these meal prep soup boards.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken in this soup?
Yes, rotisserie chicken works perfectly. It adds depth of flavor and saves time on cooking and shredding.

What type of mushrooms are best for wild rice soup?
Cremini, baby bella, or white button mushrooms all work well. Each has a slightly different flavor, with cremini offering the deepest umami.

How do I make wild rice soup thicker?
You can make a simple roux using butter and flour, or let the soup simmer uncovered longer. Stirring in a bit of instant mashed potato is another quick thickener.

Is mushroom chicken wild rice soup gluten-free?
The soup is naturally gluten-free if you skip the flour-based roux or use a gluten-free flour alternative. Check broth and seasoning labels to be sure.

Can I freeze creamy soups with milk and cream?
Dairy can separate when frozen, so it’s best to freeze the soup before adding cream. Stir in the dairy after reheating for best texture.

Creamy Mushroom Chicken Wild Rice Soup Recipe