Chicken and Wild Rice Soup

Warm up this winter with a comforting bowl of Chicken and Wild Rice Soup! This easy recipe is packed with flavor and perfect for a cozy night in.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup wild rice blend
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 carrots, diced
• 3 celery stalks, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 cups chicken broth
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

• Cook chicken breasts in a large pot and shred once cooked.
• Add diced onion, carrots, celery, and garlic to the pot with the chicken.
• Stir in chicken broth, wild rice blend, and dried thyme.
• Simmer for about 30 minutes or until rice is cooked through.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste.
• Serve hot with a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top.

Popular questions:

• Q: Can I use a different type of rice instead of wild rice blend?

A: Yes, you can substitute with brown rice or white rice, but adjust cooking time accordingly.

• Q: How can I make this soup vegetarian?

A: You can use vegetable broth and add tofu or chickpeas instead of chicken.

• Q: Can I freeze this soup?

A: Yes, allow the soup to cool before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.

• Q: Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

A: Yes, you can use leftover cooked chicken and add it towards the end of the cooking process.

Helpful tips:

• Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving for a pop of freshness.
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.
• Top with a dollop of Greek yogurt for added creaminess.
• For a thicker soup, blend a portion of it with an immersion blender before serving.

Expert Secrets:

• Cook the wild rice separately if you prefer a firmer texture.
• For a richer flavor, sauté the vegetables before adding the broth.
• Use homemade chicken broth for the best taste.
• Adjust the seasoning towards the end of cooking to ensure the perfect balance of flavors.