Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup Recipe

If you’re looking for a soul-warming meal that brings comfort and flavor in every spoonful, Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup is the answer. With tender chunks of chicken, aromatic vegetables, and silky ribbons of rice floating in a decadent, creamy broth, this soup is pure magic on a chilly day. It’s hearty enough to satisfy as a meal, yet gentle enough to soothe when you’re under the weather. Effortlessly easy to make, it combines classic pantry staples in a way that feels both nostalgic and a little bit indulgent. Whether it’s for a cozy family dinner or lunch with friends, this Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup is bound to become a staple in your kitchen.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup is how simple, accessible ingredients work together to create extraordinary flavor. Each component plays a role, from building a savory base to lending luscious texture and vibrant color.

• Butter: Adds richness to the soup and helps sauté the vegetables, giving them a mellow, toasty flavor.
• Olive oil: Balances the butter, preventing burning and bringing its own subtle fruitiness.
• Onion: Offers sweetness and depth, forming the flavor backbone of the soup.
• Carrots: Bring subtle sweetness and a lovely pop of color to each spoonful.
• Celery: Adds a gentle, herbaceous flavor and crisp texture that melds into the broth.
• Garlic: Infuses the soup with aromatic warmth; a little goes a long way.
• Uncooked long-grain rice: Soaks up the broth, turning pillowy and tender as it cooks (wild rice or blends also work great for a twist).
• Chicken broth: The foundation of the soup’s flavor, rich and savory—use homemade or your favorite store-bought brand.
• Cooked chicken breast, shredded: Rotisserie chicken or leftovers make this extra easy and deeply satisfying.
• Milk or half-and-half: Brings creamy body while keeping things light; use whichever you prefer.
• Heavy cream: The real star for that unbeatable, velvety finish.
• All-purpose flour: Helps thicken the broth for that signature, creamy texture.
• Dried thyme: Offers a gentle earthiness that pairs famously with chicken.
• Bay leaf: Adds subtle herbal notes and complexity—just remember to remove it before serving!
• Salt: Essential for enhancing all the flavors without overpowering.
• Black pepper: A little heat for balance and depth.
• Fresh parsley: Lively, fresh garnish that brightens the final bowl.

How to Make Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Veggies

Begin by heating butter and olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. The combination ensures the butter won’t burn and infuses both richness and subtle flavor to the base. Add diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté them until soft and fragrant, which usually takes about five minutes—this step creates a delicious, aromatic foundation for the soup.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Make the Roux

Stir in the minced garlic, continuing to sauté for about one minute so it becomes fragrant but not browned. Next, sprinkle the flour evenly across the vegetables. Stir well to coat everything—this forms your roux, which is the secret to transforming your soup from brothy to luxuriously creamy. Keep things moving to avoid sticking or burning.

Step 3: Build the Broth

Gradually pour in the chicken broth while whisking or stirring, which helps prevent any lumps and ensures your soup base is smooth. Add the uncooked rice, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and black pepper at this point. Give it a quick stir, then increase the heat and bring everything to a boil to kickstart the rice cooking process.

Step 4: Simmer and Soften

Lower the heat to a gentle simmer once the mixture reaches a boil. Let the soup cook for 20 to 25 minutes, checking occasionally and stirring to keep the rice from sticking. The rice will soften and swell, soaking up the rich flavors of the broth, carrots, and thyme.

Step 5: Make It Creamy and Add Chicken

Once the rice is cooked and tender, stir in the shredded cooked chicken, followed by the milk (or half-and-half) and heavy cream. Let everything heat gently for about five more minutes, just until the soup thickens slightly and the creamy magic happens—don’t boil it at this stage to keep the dairy smooth and velvety.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Remove the bay leaf (no one likes a surprise leaf in their bowl!), then ladle the Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup into bowls. Top each serving with a generous sprinkle of fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve hot and savor every spoonful.

How to Serve Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup

Garnishes

A final flourish of fresh parsley not only looks beautiful, but the herby brightness lifts the creamy richness of the soup. For a little extra flair, try a sprinkle of cracked black pepper or even a dusting of grated Parmesan for those who love an extra savory touch. If you like, add a few croutons for crunch.

Side Dishes

While Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup is plenty hearty on its own, you can never go wrong with a slice of warm, crusty bread or a soft dinner roll to soak up leftover broth. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette also makes for a fresh, balanced meal. Steamed green beans or roasted veggies make wholesome, colorful companions.

Creative Ways to Present

For a playful twist, try serving the soup in bread bowls for ultimate indulgence. Mini crocks or mugs turn it into the perfect appetizer for a dinner party. If you’re feeling fancy, garnish each bowl with a drizzle of flavored olive oil or a few microgreens for a chef-inspired touch. Let everyone customize their own bowl at the table with toppings like crumbled bacon or shredded cheese.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup keeps well in the refrigerator for up to three days. Let the soup cool to room temperature before transferring it to a sealed container. Since rice continues absorbing liquid, the soup might thicken as it sits; just add a splash of broth or milk when reheating to bring it back to your preferred consistency.

Freezing

You can absolutely freeze Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup for future meals. Cool the soup completely, portion it into airtight containers or freezer bags, and freeze for up to two months. Since dairy and rice may change in texture after freezing, give the soup a good stir and add a bit more cream or broth upon reheating if needed to restore its original creaminess.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the soup gently over medium-low heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally. Avoid boiling—gentle heating keeps the creamy broth smooth and prevents separation. If reheating from frozen, thaw in the refrigerator overnight first for the best texture. Adjust with extra liquid if it’s thicker than you’d like.

FAQs

Can I use brown or wild rice instead of white rice?

Yes, you can substitute brown or wild rice for the long-grain white rice. Just keep in mind that brown and wild rice require a longer cooking time and may need a bit more broth since they absorb more liquid.

Is it possible to make this soup dairy-free?

Absolutely! Simply replace the milk and heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk, or use your favorite unsweetened non-dairy milk. A little extra olive oil or a plant-based butter substitute will help keep the soup rich and satisfying.

What’s the best chicken to use for Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup?

Leftover roast chicken or rotisserie chicken is both convenient and flavorful. You can also poach a few chicken breasts ahead of time or use thighs for even more richness if you like a heartier soup.

How do I adjust the thickness of the soup?

If your soup becomes thicker than you’d prefer, just stir in a bit more chicken broth or milk until it reaches the right consistency for you. If you like an ultra-creamy soup, use a touch more heavy cream or let it simmer with the lid off to reduce slightly.

Can I make Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup ahead of time?

Definitely! This soup works wonderfully as a make-ahead meal. Prepare it as directed, let it cool, then refrigerate or freeze. Just remember to add extra liquid when reheating as the rice absorbs the broth during storage.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup is pure comfort in a bowl—nourishing, luscious, and absolutely irresistible. Whether you’re feeding your family or treating yourself to a cozy night in, this recipe is bound to find a lasting place in your collection. Give it a try soon and let every spoonful wrap you in warmth and flavor!

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