Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup Recipe

If you’re on a quest for the ultimate comfort food, let me introduce you to Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup. Imagine a hearty bowl brimming with tender chicken, nutty rice, and colorful vegetables swimming in a luxuriously creamy broth—this soup is pure coziness in every spoonful. Whether you need a quick weeknight dinner, something to ward off a chilly day, or a dish guaranteed to please everyone at the table, this recipe answers the call. One simmering pot is all it takes to elevate a simple meal into a delicious memory.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup is how a handful of pantry staples and fresh ingredients come together to make something extraordinary. Each ingredient plays a special role, building layers of savory, aromatic flavor and velvety texture that make every bite irresistible.

• Olive oil: The foundation for sautéing, adding a subtle richness and helping the flavors bloom.
• Onion (1 small, diced): Brings a mild sweetness and builds a flavor base for the whole soup.
• Carrots (2, peeled and sliced): Add a pop of color and a gentle sweetness that balances the savory notes.
• Celery stalks (2, sliced): Essential for classic soup flavor and a subtle crunch.
• Garlic cloves (3, minced): Just the right amount of garlicky goodness to make the broth aromatic and inviting.
• Dried thyme (1 teaspoon): Provides earthy, herby depth to complement the chicken and rice.
• Dried rosemary (1/2 teaspoon): Lends a piney note that lifts the flavor without overpowering.
• Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): For gentle warmth and seasoning.
• Salt (1 teaspoon): Pulls all the flavors together—taste and adjust as needed!
• Low-sodium chicken broth (6 cups): The backbone of the soup; low-sodium lets you control the seasoning perfectly.
• Long-grain white rice (1 cup, uncooked): For a fluffy, tender texture that thickens the soup just right.
• Cooked and shredded chicken breast (2 cups): Use leftovers or go for rotisserie—either way, it’s juicy and convenient.
• Half-and-half or heavy cream (1 cup): The magic maker for ultimate creaminess—choose your richness!
• All-purpose flour (2 tablespoons, optional): Whisked into the cream for thickening, if you love an extra-luxurious texture.
• Chopped fresh parsley (1 tablespoon, optional): The perfect fresh finish for pops of color and brightness.

How to Make Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics and Vegetables

Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add those diced onions, carrots, and celery, and let them sizzle gently for about five minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when they’re soft, fragrant, and glistening—this is where the depth of flavor begins to build.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Herbs

Toss in the minced garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together for just a minute, letting the garlic turn fragrant and the herbs wake up. Trust me, your kitchen will start smelling absolutely amazing right about now.

Step 3: Pour in Broth and Simmer the Rice

Pour in the chicken broth and bring it all up to a gentle boil. Once bubbling, stir in the rice, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer away for 15 to 20 minutes. This is key for getting that rice perfectly tender without turning mushy.

Step 4: Add Cooked Chicken

Now’s the time for the star player—shredded chicken! Add it right into the pot and let it warm through, simmering for another 5 minutes. The chicken soaks up the savory broth and mingles with the rice for hearty, spoonfuls of comfort.

Step 5: Finish with Cream (and Thicken if Desired)

Whisk together your cream (choose half-and-half for something lighter, or heavy cream for ultimate richness) with the flour, if you like your soup extra velvety. Slowly stir this mixture into the soup and simmer gently for about 5 more minutes, stirring often, until the broth takes on that irresistible creamy texture.

Step 6: Taste and Garnish

Give the soup a final taste and adjust the seasoning—sometimes a pinch more salt or pepper is all it takes to make everything sing. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a hit of color and a little garden-fresh lift right before serving.

How to Serve Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup

Garnishes

This soup loves a little extra flourish! A handful of chopped parsley brings a pop of green, while a swirl of cream or a pinch of freshly cracked pepper can make each bowl feel restaurant-worthy. For a bit of zip, try a squeeze of lemon juice or a dusting of parmesan cheese.

Side Dishes

A big slice of crusty bread or a warm, buttery biscuit is the absolute best sidekick for Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup. If you want something lighter, a crisp green salad tossed with lemony vinaigrette makes a great partner. For a twist, serve with roasted veggies or a scoop of garlic mashed potatoes.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re serving guests, ladle the soup into pre-warmed bowls and top with herb-tied breadsticks. For a homier vibe, serve directly from the steaming pot at the table alongside family-style fixings like extra parsley, grated cheese, or hot sauce. It’s a guaranteed way to spark smiles and seconds!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup stores beautifully in the fridge for up to four days. Keep it in an airtight container and give it a good stir before reheating, as the rice can soak up extra liquid as it sits.

Freezing

Good news—this soup can be frozen! For best results, freeze before adding the cream, and stir in the dairy after thawing and reheating so the texture stays lovely and smooth. Store in freezer-safe containers for up to three months.

Reheating

To bring your soup back to life, reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of extra broth or cream if it has thickened too much. Just avoid boiling once the cream is mixed in, so it stays silky instead of separating.

FAQs

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

Absolutely! Both will give the soup a slightly nuttier flavor and chewier texture. Just keep in mind they’ll need extra simmering time and may soak up more liquid, so adjust the broth as needed.

Is Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup gluten-free?

It sure can be! Simply use a gluten-free flour or skip the flour altogether if you prefer a soup that’s a bit less thick but still incredibly delicious.

Can I make this soup dairy-free?

You can! Swap the half-and-half or cream for a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk or a rich oat cream. It changes the flavor a little but still gives a wonderfully silky soup.

What’s the best way to keep the rice from getting mushy?

The key is to add the rice uncooked and simmer until just tender, then serve soon after. If storing leftovers, know that the rice will continue to absorb liquid, so you might want to add a splash of broth when reheating.

Can I make Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup in advance?

Definitely! Prep everything ahead or make the soup up to the cream step, then cool and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, reheat, add the cream, and finish with fresh parsley for that “just made” taste.

Final Thoughts

There’s something uniquely comforting about sharing a steaming bowl of Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup, especially when it tastes like a hug in a bowl. Whether you’re cooking for loved ones or just want a taste of homemade happiness, don’t miss out—give this recipe a try and let it become a cherished classic on your table, too!

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