Chicken Wild Rice Soup

Poor little Toots has had a rough couple of weeks. It all started 2 Sundays ago when he spiked the highest fever he's ever had (104.2) and was just really tired and lethargic all afternoon. We took him to the peds ER because of the high fever and they determined that it was probably just a passing virus. Later that week he started to get a cold and the next Sunday he woke up right at midnight with horrible croup cough that kept him awake on and off all night. The next day the doctor gave him a med to help him breathe easier, but the cough/cold has stayed this whole week. So, needless to say he's been pretty miserable! He gave the cough/cold to my husband, but somehow (although I was awake almost the whole night on Sunday with him coughing in my face) I have not gotten sick....yet. I'm still waiting for it.

Of course, everyone who is sick needs some chicken soup! I can't do soup that is mostly broth with a few noodles and chunks of chicken floating around. I need soup that is full and hearty, which is why I love this chicken rice soup. It has a great homemade taste and is loaded with meat, rice and veggies. If you find yourself under the weather this winter season, this soup is for you!

Chicken Wild Rice Soup

2 Tbsp. olive oil

2 leeks, chopped and washed

2 carrots, peeled and chopped

2 stalks celery, chopped

2 garlic cloves, minced

1 tsp. dried oregano

1/2 tsp. dried rosemary

1/2 tsp. dried basil

8 cups chicken broth

3 boneless skinless chicken thighs

1 cup cooked wild rice

splash of balsamic vinegar

1/4 cup finely chopped parsley

salt and pepper to taste

Place a large pot over medium heat and add oil. Add the leeks and cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the carrots, celery, garlic and spices and cook for 1 more minute. Add the chicken and broth and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and cook until chicken is done, about 1 hour. Remove the chicken, cut up the meat and return back to the pot. Stir in the wild rice, balsamic vinegar and parsley and simmer for 5 more minutes. Season with salt and pepper.

Mmmmm....we're feeling better already!