Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup

Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup is the perfect dish for any occasion, whether you’re warming up on a chilly day or serving a hearty meal to family and friends. This soup is packed with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and creamy goodness that creates a comforting bowl of flavor. The best part? The rice cooks directly in the soup, enhancing its richness and body.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, this recipe is perfect for both novice and experienced cooks.
• Flavorful Comfort: The combination of herbs and spices brings out a delightful taste that will keep everyone coming back for seconds.
• Versatile Meal: Enjoy it as a main course or pair it with a fresh salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.
• Meal Prep Friendly: This soup stores well, making it ideal for meal prepping or leftovers throughout the week.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein, vegetables, and wholesome goodness, it’s a nourishing choice for any day.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large Dutch oven or soup pot
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large Dutch oven or soup pot: Ideal for simmering soups evenly without burning.
• Mixing bowl: Helps in seasoning chicken thoroughly before adding it to the pot.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures precise ingredient amounts for consistent results.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup:

For the Chicken 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

For the Vegetables

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

For the Broth

• 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

For Flavoring

• 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, 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 kosher salt, Italian seasoning, mustard powder, paprika, and chili flakes. Stir well to coat the chicken evenly. Set aside while you prepare the vegetables.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat a large Dutch oven or soup pot over medium heat. Melt the unsalted butter in the pot. Add in the diced onions, carrots, and celery. Season with kosher salt to taste. Sauté these vegetables for about 5-7 minutes until they soften. Add minced garlic and stir for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Add the seasoned chicken pieces into the pot. Cook until no longer pink on the outside. Stir in chopped thyme and rosemary during this process.

Step 4: Thicken with Flour

Sprinkle in all-purpose flour over the mixture. Stir thoroughly to coat both vegetables and chicken pieces with flour evenly.

Step 5: Add Broth & Simmer

Slowly pour in chicken broth along with half-and-half, soy sauce, and hot sauce while stirring continuously. Then add uncooked rice into the pot. Increase heat to medium-high until boiling; then reduce heat back down to low. Let simmer for about 15-20 minutes until rice is cooked through and soup thickens. Remember to stir frequently so that rice doesn’t stick at the bottom.

Step 6: Adjust Consistency

Since this soup is made with rice cooking directly inside it, you may find that it thickens quite a bit as it cools. If needed when reheating leftovers or serving immediately, add more broth or water to reach desired consistency.

Step 7: Serve & Enjoy

Taste your soup! Adjust seasoning by adding more hot sauce or salt if desired. Ladle soup into bowls garnished with shaved Parmesan cheese, black pepper, and freshly chopped parsley before serving warm!

Enjoy your delicious Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup!

How to Serve Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup

Serving Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup can enhance your dining experience, making it enjoyable for family and friends. Here are some creative ways to present this comforting dish.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a burst of color and a hint of freshness.
• Thyme Sprigs: Use whole thyme sprigs for a rustic presentation and aromatic flavor.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Sourdough Bread: Serve warm slices of sourdough to soak up the rich broth.
• Garlic Bread: Garlic bread adds a savory touch that complements the creamy soup perfectly.

Add a Side Salad

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad provides a crunchy contrast to the creamy texture of the soup.
• Garden Salad: A light garden salad with vinaigrette can refresh your palate between bites.

Create a Soup Bar

• Toppings Station: Set up toppings like grated cheese, crushed red pepper, or extra herbs for guests to customize their bowls.
• Various Broths: Offer different broth options for those who may want a lighter version.

How to Perfect Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup

To make sure your Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup turns out just right, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs elevate the flavor profile significantly.
• Stir Frequently: Keeping the rice from sticking to the bottom of the pot ensures even cooking and prevents burning.
• Adjust Consistency: If the soup thickens too much, add more broth or water until you reach your desired consistency.
• Taste as You Go: Adjust seasoning gradually, ensuring a balanced flavor without overpowering any single ingredient.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup

Complementing your Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup with side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Breadsticks: Soft, buttery sticks that are perfect for dipping into the soup.
2. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a refreshing contrast.
3. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized adds depth to your meal.
4. Cheesy Biscuits: Fluffy biscuits with melted cheese provide an indulgent touch alongside the soup.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers filled with quinoa or rice add substance and nutrition to your dinner plate.
6. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad can cleanse the palate after enjoying the hearty soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture of your dish. Here are some pitfalls to avoid.

• Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking the chicken for too long can lead to dry meat. Aim to cook until just no longer pink.
• Skipping Seasoning: Not seasoning adequately can make the soup bland. Be sure to taste and adjust seasonings at the end.
• Using Cold Broth: Pouring in cold broth slows down cooking time. Always use warm or hot broth for a quicker simmer.
• Not Stirring Enough: Failing to stir frequently can cause rice to stick. Make it a habit to stir, especially as it thickens.
• Ignoring Texture: If you want a creamier soup, incorporate more half-and-half slowly while checking consistency. Adjust according to preference.
• Not Adjusting Liquid: The rice absorbs a lot of liquid; always add more broth or water if needed, especially when reheating.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• The soup lasts up to 3–4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil, heating until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place soup in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Pour soup into a pot over medium heat. Stir frequently until heated through, adding extra broth if needed.

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 adding more flour during cooking or using less liquid initially. Remember that the rice also contributes starch which thickens the soup.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but keep in mind that brown rice takes longer to cook. You may need to add extra broth and adjust cooking times accordingly.

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

Feel free to include vegetables like peas, corn, or green beans for added color and nutrition. Just make sure they are chopped small enough for even cooking.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute half-and-half with coconut milk or any plant-based cream alternative for a delicious dairy-free version of Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup is not only comforting but also versatile. You can customize it with different vegetables or spices based on your preferences. This recipe is perfect for cozy dinners or meal prep throughout the week—enjoy every spoonful!

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Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup

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Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup is a warm, comforting dish that combines tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and creamy goodness to create a satisfying meal for any occasion. This simple one-pot recipe features rice cooked directly in the soup, enriching its texture and flavor. Perfect for chilly days or family gatherings, this nourishing soup is easy to prepare, making it ideal for novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike. With wholesome ingredients and the ability to customize with your favorite vegetables, this recipe offers versatility while being a great option for meal prep or leftovers.

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

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 1/2 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
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/4 tsp mustard powder
• 1/4 tsp paprika
• 1/4 tsp chili flakes
• 1 Tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
• 1 Tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

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Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, season diced chicken thighs with salt, Italian seasoning, mustard powder, paprika, and chili flakes.
2. In a large Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat. Sauté diced onion, carrots, celery, and garlic until softened.
3. Add seasoned chicken to the pot and cook until no longer pink. Stir in chopped thyme and rosemary.
4. Sprinkle flour over the mixture and stir well. Gradually add chicken broth and half-and-half while stirring.
5. Mix in uncooked rice. Bring to a boil then reduce heat to low; let simmer for about 15-20 minutes until rice is tender.
6. Adjust consistency as needed by adding more broth or water when reheating.

• Author: Diary
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 360
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 90mg