Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup

( I usually cut this recipe in half)
8 cups chicken broth
4 cups water
4 cooked, boneless chicken breast halves, shredded (can use more chicken than this)
2 (4.5 ounce) packages quick cooking long grain and wild rice with seasoning packet (such as Rice-a Roni)
1 tsp. salt
1 tsp. ground pepper
1 1/2 c. flour
1 c. butter
4 cups heavy cream (I often just use half and half)

In a large pot over medium heat, combine broth, water, and chicken. Bring just to boiling, then stir in rice, reserving seasoning packet. Cover and reduce heat to low.

In a small bowl, combine salt, pepper, and flour. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Stir in contents of seasoning packet until mixture is bubbly. Reduce heat to low, then stir in flour mixture by tablespoons to form a roux. Whisk in cream, a little at a time, until fully incorporated and smooth. Cook until thickened (5 minutes).

Stir cream mixture into broth and rice. Cook over medium heat until heated through, at least 10-15 minutes.

Submitted by: Nicole Harman