Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup is a comforting dish perfect for any occasion. This soup brings together tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and creamy broth, creating a delightful meal that warms the soul. Whether you’re serving it on a chilly evening or preparing a family dinner, this recipe stands out with its rich flavors and hearty texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting and Hearty: This soup is packed with chicken and rice, making it filling and satisfying.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps, you can have a delicious homemade soup in under an hour.
• Versatile: Customize with your favorite vegetables or add spices to suit your taste preferences.
• Perfect Leftovers: The flavors meld beautifully after a day in the fridge, making for tasty leftovers.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the creamy texture and flavorful ingredients.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gathering your tools will ensure a smooth experience. Here are some essential items you’ll need to create your Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven or large soup pot
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven or large soup pot: Ideal for simmering soups evenly without burning them.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring ingredients without scratching your cookware.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensure precise measurements for consistent results in every batch.

this recipe

Ingredients

To make this Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup, gather the following ingredients:

For the Soup Base

• 1 1/2 lb. boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 tsp. kosher salt
• 1 tsp. Italian seasoning
• 1/4 tsp. mustard powder
• 1/4 tsp. paprika
• 1/4 tsp. chili flakes

Vegetables

• 3 Tbsp. butter, unsalted
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 3 large carrots, peeled and diced
• 3 stalks celery, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced

Herbs and Thickening Agent

• 1 Tbsp. fresh thyme, chopped
• 1 Tbsp. fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1/4 cup all purpose flour

Liquid Ingredients

• 6 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup half and half
• 1 Tbsp. soy sauce
• 1 Tbsp. hot sauce

For Finishing Touches

• 1 cup long grain white rice, uncooked
• salt and pepper, to taste
• garnish: Parmesan cheese, black pepper, fresh parsley

How to Make Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Place the diced chicken pieces in a medium-sized mixing bowl. Add the salt, Italian seasoning, mustard powder, paprika, and chili flakes; stir to coat the chicken evenly. Set aside while you prepare the vegetables.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Heat a large Dutch oven or soup pot over medium heat. Melt the butter in the pot, then add the onions, carrots, and celery along with kosher salt to taste. Sauté these ingredients for about 5–7 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Cook Chicken

Add the seasoned chicken pieces to the pot. Cook until they are no longer pink inside (about 5–7 minutes). Stir in the chopped thyme and rosemary during the last minute of cooking.

Step 4: Thicken the Soup

Sprinkle flour over the chicken mixture while stirring to coat evenly. This will help thicken your soup as it cooks.

Step 5: Add Broth and Simmer

Slowly pour in the chicken broth, half-and-half, soy sauce, hot sauce, followed by uncooked rice; stir well to combine all ingredients thoroughly. Increase heat to medium-high until it reaches a boil then reduce heat back down to low so that it simmers gently for about 15–20 minutes while stirring frequently.

Step 6: Adjust Consistency

Since this soup is made with rice cooked directly in it, be aware that it will thicken as it sits due to rice absorbing broth. If needed, add more broth or water when reheating leftovers to achieve desired consistency.

Step 7: Serve

Taste test your soup! Adjust seasoning by adding more hot sauce, salt, or pepper as desired before ladling into bowls. Garnish each serving with shaved Parmesan cheese, freshly cracked black pepper, and chopped parsley before enjoying!

This Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup is not only fulfilling but also easy enough for weeknight dinners while being special enough for gatherings!

How to Serve Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup

Serving Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup is a delightful experience that can be enhanced with various accompaniments. Here are some creative ways to present this comforting dish.

Pair with Fresh Bread

• Crusty Baguette: A warm baguette is perfect for dipping into the soup.
• Garlic Bread: Adds a flavorful twist that complements the creamy texture.

Top with Garnishes

• Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley adds color and a fresh taste.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of cheese enhances flavor and richness.

Serve in Unique Bowls

• Bread Bowls: For a fun presentation, serve the soup in hollowed-out bread rolls.
• Mason Jars: Individual servings in jars create an attractive and rustic look.

How to Perfect Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup

To ensure your Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs will enhance the flavors significantly.
• Cook Rice Separately: If you prefer a less thick soup, consider cooking the rice separately and adding it just before serving.
• Adjust Consistency: Add more broth or water if the soup becomes too thick after cooling or reheating.
• Taste as You Go: Regularly taste your soup to adjust seasoning according to your preference.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup

Complementing your Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup with side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options.

1. Garden Salad: A refreshing mix of greens and veggies adds crunch and contrast.
2. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli provides nutrients without overpowering flavors.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring depth and sweetness to your meal.
4. Cheesy Biscuits: Fluffy biscuits with cheese are perfect for soaking up the soup.
5. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad offers a sweet balance to the savory flavors of the soup.
6. Cornbread Muffins: These slightly sweet muffins pair wonderfully with the creaminess of the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup, there are a few common mistakes to watch out for. Here are some tips to ensure your soup turns out perfectly.

• Using the wrong cut of chicken: Opt for boneless, skinless chicken thighs for tenderness. Avoid using chicken breasts as they can dry out.
• Not seasoning properly: Under-seasoning can lead to bland soup. Be sure to taste and adjust salt, pepper, and other seasonings as needed.
• Skipping the sauté step: This adds depth of flavor. Always sauté your vegetables before adding the broth for the best results.
• Overcooking the rice: Keep an eye on the cooking time. Overcooked rice can become mushy, so cook only until tender.
• Neglecting to stir frequently: This prevents sticking and ensures even cooking. Stir often while simmering to keep everything combined.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keeps well for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup

• Allow it to cool completely before freezing.
• Store in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 25-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes until warm, stirring in between.
• Stovetop: Heat on medium-low in a pot, stirring frequently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time as brown rice takes longer to cook.

How can I make this soup dairy-free?

You can substitute half-and-half with coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative.

Is it possible to add vegetables?

Absolutely! You can customize your soup by adding vegetables like peas or spinach for extra nutrients.

How do I thicken my Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup?

If you prefer a thicker consistency, add more flour or let it simmer longer until it reaches your desired thickness.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup is a comforting dish that’s both delicious and versatile. Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or spices for added flair. Give this recipe a try; it’s perfect for cozy nights!

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Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup

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• Author: Adeline
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x

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Description

Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup is a warm, fulfilling dish that combines tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a rich, creamy broth. This comforting soup is perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings, offering a satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy. With its hearty texture and customizable ingredients, it’s easy to make and perfect for leftovers.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 1/2 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup half-and-half
• 1 cup long grain white rice
• 3 large carrots
• 3 stalks celery
• 1 medium yellow onion
• 4 cloves garlic
• 1 Tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
• 1 Tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
• 3 Tbsp unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/4 tsp mustard powder
• 1/4 tsp paprika
• 1/4 tsp chili flakes

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Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, season chicken thighs with salt, Italian seasoning, mustard powder, paprika, and chili flakes; set aside.
2. In a large Dutch oven over medium heat, melt butter. Add diced onions, carrots, celery, and a pinch of salt; sauté until softened (5–7 minutes). Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
3. Add seasoned chicken to the pot; cook until no longer pink (about 5–7 minutes). Stir in chopped thyme and rosemary.
4. Sprinkle flour over the mixture while stirring to coat evenly.
5. Slowly pour in chicken broth and half-and-half; add uncooked rice. Bring to a boil then reduce heat to low; simmer for 15–20 minutes.
6. Adjust consistency with additional broth if needed. Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 360
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 720mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: For a dairy-free version, substitute half-and-half with coconut milk or plant-based cream. Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like peas or spinach for added nutrition.