Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup

Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup is a comforting dish that warms your soul with every spoonful. This hearty soup combines tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and creamy broth with rice that cooks right in the pot, creating a rich and satisfying meal. Perfect for cozy family dinners or when you’re feeling under the weather, this soup delivers delicious flavors and a delightful texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps, you can whip up this soup in just 45 minutes.
• Flavorful Comfort: The blend of seasonings and fresh herbs enhances the taste, making it irresistible.
• Versatile Meal: Great for lunch or dinner, it can be served on its own or with crusty bread.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein from chicken and fiber from veggies, it’s a wholesome choice.
• Leftover Friendly: The flavors deepen over time, making it even better as leftovers.

Tools and Preparation

Creating your Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup requires just a few essential kitchen tools. Having these on hand will make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven or large soup pot
• Mixing bowls
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven or large soup pot: Ideal for even heat distribution while simmering your soup.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife ensures efficient chopping of vegetables for quick prep.

Ingredients

Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup made with chicken, veggies, rice, and a creamy broth. The rice cooks right in the soup giving it body & richness!

For the Chicken

• 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

For the Soup Base

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

For the Creamy Broth

• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup half-and-half (or cream alternative)
• 1 Tbsp. soy sauce
• 1 Tbsp. hot sauce

For the Rice

• 1 cup long grain white rice, uncooked

To Taste

• Salt and pepper, to taste

Garnish

• Parmesan cheese (optional), 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 to let the flavors meld.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Heat a large Dutch oven or soup pot over medium heat. Melt the butter before adding in the onions, carrots, and celery. Season with kosher salt to taste. Sauté while stirring occasionally for about 5-7 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and stir for another 30 seconds.

Step 3: Cook Chicken

Add the seasoned chicken pieces to the pot and cook until they are no longer pink inside—about 5-7 minutes. Stir in fresh thyme and rosemary during the last minute of cooking.

Step 4: Thicken Base with Flour

Sprinkle flour over the mixture in the pot and stir well to coat both vegetables and chicken evenly.

Step 5: Create Creamy Broth

Slowly pour in the chicken broth along with half-and-half (or cream alternative), soy sauce, and hot sauce while stirring continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Add uncooked rice into the mix.

Step 6: Simmer Until Cooked Through

Raise heat to medium-high until boiling occurs; then reduce heat back down to low to let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until rice is cooked through and soup thickens slightly. Stir frequently to ensure rice doesn’t stick to bottom of pot.

Step 7: Final Touches

Taste your creamy chicken and rice soup; adjust flavor by adding more hot sauce, salt, or pepper as desired. Ladle into bowls and garnish each serving with shaved Parmesan cheese (if using), freshly cracked black pepper, and minced parsley before enjoying!

How to Serve Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup

Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your meal experience. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate this comforting soup.

With Fresh Bread

• Crusty Baguette: Serve slices of crusty baguette for dipping into the creamy broth.
• Garlic Bread: Pair with garlic bread for a flavorful addition that complements the soup.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a burst of color and freshness.
• Thyme Sprigs: Use whole thyme sprigs as a garnish for an aromatic touch.

Accompanied by Salad

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad provides a crunchy contrast to the creamy soup.
• Mixed Greens: Light mixed green salads with a vinaigrette balance the richness of the soup.

As Part of a Meal Prep

• Batch Cooking: Make a large pot and portion it into containers for easy lunch options throughout the week.
• Freezing Portions: Freeze individual servings for quick meals on busy days.

How to Perfect Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup

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

• Bold seasoning choices: Enhance flavors by adjusting the seasonings according to your taste preferences.
• Creaminess factor: For extra creaminess, you can add more half and half or use heavy cream instead.
• Rice variety: Experiment with different types of rice, like jasmine or basmati, for unique flavors.
• Cooking time control: Monitor the cooking time closely to prevent overcooking the rice, which can make it mushy.
• Broth depth: Use homemade chicken broth or high-quality store-bought broth for richer flavor.
• Garnish creatively: Beyond cheese, try adding avocado slices or croutons for added texture and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup

Pairing sides with your Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup can enhance your dining experience. Here are some delicious side dish ideas.

1. Garlic Knots: Soft knots brushed with garlic butter that bring zest to every bite.
2. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic vinegar provide a refreshing contrast.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add color and nutrition alongside your soup.
4. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw gives a nice textural balance to the creamy soup.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Flavorful stuffed peppers make for a hearty side dish that pairs well with soup.
6. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins offer a delightful sweetness to complement the savory flavors of the soup.
7. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs make for a satisfying side option.
8. Cucumber Salad: A light cucumber salad dressed in vinegar offers crispness that contrasts nicely with the rich soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup can be straightforward, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are some mistakes to avoid:

• Overcooking the Chicken: If you cook the chicken too long, it can become tough. Cook just until no longer pink to keep it tender.
• Skipping the Seasoning: Failing to season at each step can lead to bland soup. Make sure to add salt and spices during cooking for deeper flavor.
• Not Stirring Frequently: Rice can stick to the bottom if not stirred often. Keep stirring as it simmers to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking.
• Ignoring the Broth Thickness: If your soup is too thick after cooking, you may need more broth or water. Always taste before serving and adjust as needed.
• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Using fresh vegetables and quality chicken makes a big difference in flavor. Opt for high-quality ingredients for the best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 2-3 months.
• Leave space at the top of containers for expansion when freezing.

Reheating Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered until warm, about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl in 1-minute intervals, stirring between until heated through.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a pot, stirring frequently until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

How can I make my Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup thicker?

You can thicken your soup by cooking it longer to allow more starch from the rice to release or by adding a slurry of flour mixed with water.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but note that brown rice takes longer to cook. Adjust your simmering time accordingly.

What other vegetables can I add to my Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup?

You can add peas, corn, or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition. Just be sure they are added during the last few minutes of cooking.

How do I store leftover Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, or freeze for up to 2-3 months.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup is a comforting dish that offers rich flavors and versatility. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting seasonings. Perfect for any day of the week, this soup is sure to be a hit with family and friends!

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Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6

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Description

Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup is a warm and comforting dish that brings together tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a creamy broth infused with savory flavors. This one-pot meal is perfect for family dinners or a cozy night in. The rice cooks directly in the soup, adding richness to each spoonful. Easy to prepare in under an hour, this soup is not only satisfying but also nutritious, making it an excellent choice for any occasion.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 1/2 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/4 tsp mustard powder
• 1/4 tsp paprika
• 1/4 tsp chili flakes
• 3 Tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 3 large carrots, peeled and diced
• 3 stalks celery, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 Tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
• 1 Tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup half-and-half (or cream alternative)
• 1 Tbsp soy sauce
• 1 Tbsp hot sauce
• 1 cup long grain white rice, uncooked
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Parmesan cheese (optional), black pepper, fresh parsley for garnish

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Instructions

1. In a bowl, season diced chicken with salt, Italian seasoning, mustard powder, paprika, and chili flakes.
2. Heat butter in a large pot over medium heat and sauté diced onions, carrots, and celery until softened. Add minced garlic.
3. Cook seasoned chicken until no longer pink; stir in thyme and rosemary.
4. Sprinkle flour over the mixture and stir well.
5. Gradually add chicken broth, half-and-half (or cream alternative), soy sauce, hot sauce, and uncooked rice while stirring continuously.
6. Simmer on low heat until rice is cooked through and soup thickens slightly.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 780mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 80mg