Chicken and Wild Rice Soup

This recipe was given to me by my sister-in-law who shall remain nameless on this blog.  Her husband, however, has made it clear that if he ever appears on the blog that he should be called Richard so we can just call my SIL Mrs. Richard for now.  I've always loved going over to Mrs. Richard's house for dinner.  It just feels so good to be surrounded by cheerful people who love and care about you.  It's an added bonus that she always makes healthy and yummy food.  Her kids are amazing eaters; they prefer salads over french fries and love food from all cultures, including Indian food.  Hopefully, Ethan will grow up to be a good eater like the little Richardians.

This soup is soul warming; perfect for a cold or rainy day.  I usually just get a rotisserie chicken from Costco and shred it.

{ Chicken and Wild Rice Soup }

From my SIL

1 onion, carrots and celery, choppped (about a cup each or more if you want)
1/2 cup butter
2/3 cup flour
6 cups chicken broth
2 packages Rice-a-Roni long grain and wild rice (prepared as directed on the box)
3 to 4 chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
2 cups half and half
Salt a pepper to taste

Melt butter and saute vegetables until tender.

Add flour and stir until vegetables are coated .  Slowly add some broth and stir vigorously until flour dissolves.  Add remaining broth.

I bring it to a boil at this point.  

Add the remaining ingredients and simmer on low until well blended or put in a crock-pot on low until ready to serve.