Creamy Mushroom Chicken and Wild Rice Soup

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 pound mushrooms, sliced
• 1 tablespoon butter (for vegetables)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped (or 1/2 tsp dried thyme)
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup wild rice (or a wild rice blend)
• 1 1/2 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded
• 1 cup milk or cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan (Parmigiano Reggiano)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the Mushrooms:
   • In a large pan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat.
   • Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté for 10-15 minutes, until they release their liquid and it evaporates. Set aside.
2. Cook the Vegetables:
   • In the same pan, melt 1 tablespoon of butter.
   • Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until soft and tender, about 8-10 minutes.
3. Add Garlic and Herbs:
   • Stir in the minced garlic and thyme. Cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Combine Soup Ingredients:
   • Add chicken broth, wild rice, chicken, and the cooked mushrooms to the pot.
   • Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and cover. Simmer for 20-30 minutes until the rice is tender.
5. Finish with Creaminess:
   • Stir in the milk or cream and grated Parmesan cheese.
   • Cook on low heat, stirring occasionally, until the cheese has melted and the soup is creamy.
   • Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve and Enjoy!
   • Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot.

Estimated Nutrition Info (per serving, based on 6 servings):

• Calories: 350-400 kcal
• Protein: 20-25 g
• Fat: 20-24 g
  • Saturated Fat: 10-12 g
• Carbohydrates: 28-32 g
  • Fiber: 2-4 g
  • Sugars: 5-6 g
• Sodium: 900-1100 mg
• Calcium: ~250 mg

The use of milk or cream and Parmesan contributes to the creamy texture, while the mushrooms, wild rice, and chicken provide a nice balance of protein and hearty flavor