Set the Instant Pot to Sauté mode. Add the butter and olive oil. Once hot, add the onion, garlic, celery, and carrots. Sauté until the vegetables are slightly softened.
Add the chicken thighs, wild rice, thyme, sage, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine the ingredients evenly.
Add the chicken broth to the pot. If using, add the sliced mushrooms. Stir everything together, ensuring that the rice is fully submerged in the liquid.
Seal the Instant Pot and set it to cook on High Pressure for 25 minutes. Once the cooking time is complete, allow for a natural pressure release for 10 minutes, then manually release any remaining pressure.
Open the Instant Pot and remove the chicken thighs. Shred the chicken and return it to the pot. Stir in the cream or milk and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh herbs or extra black pepper, if desired.
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Wild rice is a special type of grain harvested from aquatic grass species native to the Great Lakes region of North America. Unlike regular rice, wild rice isn't actually rice but a seed. It's celebrated for its high nutritional value, including protein, fiber, and antioxidants, and is a gluten-free alternative to other grains.
Wild rice boasts a distinctive nutty and earthy flavor, which is more pronounced than regular white or brown rice. Its texture is chewy and hearty, making it a delightful addition to various dishes. The robust flavor profile of wild rice complements a wide range of ingredients, especially in soups and casseroles.