Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup
Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup is a comforting dish perfect for any occasion. This delightful soup combines tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and rice in a rich, creamy broth. It’s versatile enough for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. The standout feature of this recipe is that the rice cooks right in the soup, enhancing its body and flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: This soup comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of herbs and spices creates a deliciously savory flavor profile.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap out veggies or adjust seasonings to suit your taste.
- Comforting Meal: Enjoy this hearty soup on chilly days for a warming experience.
- Great for Leftovers: The flavors deepen as it sits, making leftovers even more delicious.
Tools and Preparation
Gathering the right tools will make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable. Here are some essential tools needed for making Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Dutch oven or large soup pot
- Mixing bowl
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Dutch oven or large soup pot: Ideal for even heat distribution and allows for ample space to cook all ingredients together.
- Mixing bowl: Perfect for marinating chicken with spices before cooking.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: Great for stirring without scratching your cookware.
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!
- 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
- 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
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup half and half
- 1 Tbsp. soy sauce
- 1 Tbsp. hot sauce
- 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: Prepare the Chicken
Place the diced chicken pieces in a medium-sized mixing bowl. Add the kosher salt, Italian seasoning, mustard powder, paprika, and chili flakes. Stir until the chicken is well coated with the seasoning mixture.
Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
Heat a large Dutch oven or soup pot over medium heat. Melt the unsalted butter, then add the diced onions, carrots, and celery. Season with kosher salt to taste. Sauté while stirring occasionally for about 5–7 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and stir for an additional 30 seconds.
Step 3: Cook Chicken
Add the seasoned chicken pieces to the pot and cook until no longer pink in color. Stir in the chopped thyme and rosemary once cooked through.
Step 4: Thicken Base
Sprinkle in the all-purpose flour over the vegetables and chicken mixture, stirring well to coat everything evenly.
Step 5: Combine Ingredients
Slowly pour in the chicken broth along with half-and-half, soy sauce, hot sauce, and then add uncooked rice into the pot. Stir everything together thoroughly.
Step 6: Simmer
Increase heat to medium-high to bring the mixture to a boil briefly before reducing it back down to low heat to allow simmering until rice is tender (approximately 15–20 minutes). Remember to stir frequently to prevent sticking at the bottom of the pot.
Step 7: Final Adjustments
Taste your creamy chicken soup; feel free to add more hot sauce, salt, or pepper according to your preference. When serving, ladle into bowls garnished with shaved Parmesan cheese, freshly cracked black pepper, and chopped parsley for added freshness!
Enjoy every comforting spoonful of your Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup!
How to Serve Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup
Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup is a comforting dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly evening or serving it at a family gathering, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.
Pair with Crusty Bread
- Freshly baked sourdough or baguette makes for a perfect accompaniment. The crusty texture contrasts beautifully with the creamy soup.
Top with Fresh Herbs
- Garnishing with chopped parsley or cilantro adds freshness and color. This simple touch enhances both the flavor and presentation of your soup.
Add a Squeeze of Lemon
- A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens the flavors. It balances the richness of the creamy broth beautifully.
Serve with a Side Salad
- A crisp green salad complements the soup nicely. Consider arugula or mixed greens dressed with vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
Offer Crackers on the Side
- Crunchy crackers are an easy, fun way to add texture to your meal. They can be crumbled into the soup for an extra layer of flavor.
Include Cheese Options
- Provide grated Parmesan or shredded cheddar as optional toppings. Cheese adds another level of creaminess and depth to each bowl.
How to Perfect Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup
To achieve the best results with your Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup, consider these helpful tips for perfecting the dish.
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Use quality chicken broth: A rich, flavorful broth enhances the overall taste. Opt for homemade or low-sodium varieties for better control over seasoning.
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Don’t skip the sautéing step: Sautéing vegetables before adding them to the soup deepens their flavors. Take your time during this step for optimal results.
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Adjust rice cooking time: Keep an eye on the rice as it cooks in the soup. For best results, taste regularly to ensure it’s cooked just right.
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Thicken as needed: If you prefer a thicker soup, let it simmer longer or add a bit more flour mixed with water. Adjusting texture can make all the difference.
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Season gradually: Taste as you go! Adding salt and spices incrementally allows you to control flavor levels without overpowering the dish.
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Store correctly: Leftovers can thicken as they sit. Store in an airtight container and add extra broth when reheating to restore creaminess.
Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup
Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that complement its flavors. Here are some great options to consider:
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Garlic Bread – Toasted bread topped with garlic butter adds warmth and crunch, perfect for dipping.
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Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine lettuce combined with Caesar dressing provides a tangy contrast that balances the richness of the soup.
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Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized offer flavor depth and healthy nutrients alongside your meal.
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Coleslaw – A tangy or creamy coleslaw brings crunchiness that complements each spoonful of soup beautifully.
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Stuffed Peppers – Bell peppers filled with rice, cheese, and spices provide a hearty addition that pairs well with this creamy dish.
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Potato Wedges – Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs create a satisfying side that can be enjoyed alongside every bite of soup.
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Fruit Salad – A light fruit salad offers sweetness and freshness, cleansing your palate between bites of creamy goodness.
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Cornbread – Sweet cornbread provides a delightful texture contrast while adding a hint of sweetness to balance savory flavors in the soup.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for.
- Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season the chicken properly can result in bland soup. Make sure to coat the chicken with salt and spices before cooking.
- Overcooking the rice: Cooking the rice too long can lead to mushy soup. Keep an eye on the cooking time and taste periodically.
- Neglecting to stir: Not stirring often can cause the rice to stick to the bottom of the pot. Stir frequently while simmering for even cooking.
- Using cold broth: Adding cold broth can shock the mixture and slow down cooking. Always use warm or hot broth for a smoother process.
- Ignoring leftovers: Forgetting how quickly leftovers can thicken is a mistake. Store them properly and add extra liquid when reheating.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Will last up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
Freezing Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup
- Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
- Can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish for about 20-30 minutes or until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring between each, until hot throughout.
- Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat, stirring frequently, adding broth if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup that you might find helpful.
Can I use leftover chicken for Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup?
Yes, using leftover chicken is a great way to save time. Just add it during the last few minutes of cooking.
What type of rice works best in Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup?
Long grain white rice is ideal as it cooks evenly and absorbs flavors well. Avoid using quick-cook rice for best results.
Can I make Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup in advance?
Absolutely! This soup tastes even better after sitting for a day. Just remember it will thicken, so adjust with more broth when reheating.
Is this recipe customizable?
Yes! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or herbs. Spinach, peas, or corn work well for added nutrition.
Final Thoughts
Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup is not just comforting but also versatile. It allows you to customize flavors with different herbs or spices. Whether enjoyed on a chilly evening or as a hearty lunch, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings!
Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 8 people 1x
Description
Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup is a heartwarming dish that effortlessly combines tender chicken, wholesome vegetables, and rice in a velvety broth. This comforting soup is perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends. The best part? The rice cooks right in the soup, enriching the flavors and creating a satisfying texture. Whether you’re seeking warmth on a chilly night or a nourishing meal to share, this creamy chicken soup will become a go-to favorite.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 medium yellow onion
- 3 large carrots
- 3 stalks celery
- 4 cloves garlic
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup half-and-half
- 1 cup long grain white rice
- Fresh thyme and rosemary
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/4 tsp mustard powder
- 1/4 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp chili flakes
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp hot sauce
- salt and pepper to taste
- garnish: Parmesan cheese, black pepper, fresh parsley
Instructions
- Season diced chicken with salt, Italian seasoning, mustard powder, paprika, and chili flakes.
- In a Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat; sauté onions, carrots, and celery until softened (5-7 minutes). Add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
- Add seasoned chicken; cook until no longer pink. Stir in thyme and rosemary.
- Sprinkle flour over the mixture; stir well to coat.
- Gradually add chicken broth, half-and-half, soy sauce, hot sauce, and rice. Mix thoroughly.
- Bring to a boil briefly; then reduce heat to low and simmer for 15–20 minutes until rice is tender.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste before serving with garnishes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Comfort Food
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 375
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 690mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
