We've had a blast of winter, so here is a wonderful soup recipe.  Early in the winter I spent the day with friends and this soup was served with green salad and crusty bread.  Great conversation, good wine, amazing friends and the best soup ever! Enjoy!

Creamy Chicken Rice Soup

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup chopped carrot
• 1/3 cup finely chopped onion
• 1/3 cup chopped celery
• 2 tablespoons butter or stick margarine
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 (14.5 ounce) cans reduced sodium chicken broth
• 2 cups cooked long-grain rice
• 1 cup cubed cooked chicken
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 cup 2% milk
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon white wine

Directions

1. In a large saucepan, saute the carrot, onion and celery in butter until tender. Stir in flour until blended. Gradually stir in broth. Add the rice, chicken, salt, pepper and garlic powder; bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until vegetables are tender. Reduce heat to low. Stir in the milk, lemon juice and wine if desired. Cook and stir for 5 minutes or until heated through.