Creamy Chicken And Rice Soup Recipe

Craving a warm, comforting bowl of soup that’s perfect for chilly nights? This Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup is rich, hearty, and loaded with tender chicken, vegetables, and creamy broth that will quickly become a family favorite. It’s easy to make, comes together in under an hour, and is great for meal prepping. Whether you’re looking to warm up on a cold day or need a nourishing meal, this soup is a go-to option.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup is everything you want in a comforting meal. It’s packed with flavors from aromatic vegetables, tender chicken, and a luscious creamy broth that makes each spoonful a delight. Perfect for busy weeknights, this one-pot meal means fewer dishes to wash, and it’s easy to adjust the ingredients to suit your taste. Plus, the soup gets thicker and creamier the longer it sits, making leftovers just as delicious!

Ingredients Overview

• Olive Oil (1 tablespoon): Adds a light, fruity base to sauté the vegetables.
• Celery (1 stick, finely chopped): Provides a subtle, fresh crunch and enhances the broth’s flavor.
• Carrots (2 medium, peeled and chopped finely): Adds natural sweetness and color to the soup.
• Onion (½ medium, chopped): Delivers a savory depth of flavor.
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Enhances the overall taste with a bit of warmth and spice.
• Flour (3 tablespoons): Helps to thicken the soup and gives it that creamy texture.
• Chicken Broth (4 cups): Forms the soup’s base, adding richness and depth to the dish.
• Italian Seasoning (¼ teaspoon): Brings a blend of herbs that complements the chicken and vegetables.
• White Jasmine Rice (¾ cup, uncooked): A fragrant rice that cooks perfectly within the soup, adding heartiness.
• Heavy Cream (1 cup): Adds richness and makes the soup creamy and luxurious.
• Chicken Breasts (1 pound, cut into bite-size pieces): Provides protein and makes the soup filling.
• Salt and Pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors.

this RECIPE

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Large Soup Pot
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula
• Measuring Cups and Spoons
• Sharp Knife
• Cutting Board

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large soup pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped celery, carrots, and onion. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
2. Add Garlic and Flour: Stir in the minced garlic and flour, cooking for about a minute until the flour is lightly browned. This step helps to develop the base of the soup’s flavor.
3. Pour in the Broth: Slowly add the chicken broth while stirring constantly. Scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pot to enhance the flavor. Keep stirring until the flour is fully dissolved.
4. Simmer with Seasoning and Rice: Add the Italian seasoning, uncooked rice, and heavy cream to the pot. Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Stir well, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot with the lid slightly ajar and let the soup simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent the rice from sticking.
5. Cook the Chicken: Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the soup. Continue cooking for another 7-10 minutes, or until both the chicken and rice are fully cooked and tender. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Adjust Consistency: If the soup becomes too thick, feel free to add more chicken broth to reach your desired consistency. Remember, the rice will continue to absorb liquid, especially in leftovers.

Tips for Perfect Soup

• Stir Often: Prevent the rice from sticking by stirring frequently, especially as the soup simmers.
• Adjust the Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half or milk for the heavy cream.
• Cut Chicken Evenly: Ensure the chicken pieces are evenly cut to cook uniformly within the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not Stirring Enough: Jasmine rice can stick to the bottom if not stirred, leading to burnt bits.
• Overcooking the Rice: Cooking too long can make the rice mushy. Stick to the suggested times and check for doneness.
• Adding Too Much Salt Early: Since the broth will reduce slightly, adjust the salt at the end to avoid oversalting.

Variations and Swaps

• Protein Alternatives: Swap chicken breasts with chicken thighs for a juicier texture or even use shredded rotisserie chicken for convenience.
• Rice Substitutes: Brown rice or wild rice can be used, but adjust the cooking time accordingly as they take longer to cook.
• Vegetable Add-Ins: Add mushrooms, spinach, or peas for extra nutrients and color.

How to Store Leftovers

• Refrigeration: Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The soup will thicken as it sits, so add a bit of chicken broth when reheating.
• Freezing: This soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove, adding extra broth as needed.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this creamy chicken and rice soup with crusty bread, a light green salad, or some steamed vegetables on the side for a well-rounded meal. It’s also perfect on its own for a quick and comforting lunch or dinner.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use cooked chicken instead of raw?
Yes, you can use pre-cooked chicken such as rotisserie chicken. Add it towards the end to warm it through without overcooking.

Can I make this soup dairy-free?
You can substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative for a lighter, non-dairy version.

What if my soup is too thick?
Simply add more chicken broth until the soup reaches your desired consistency. This will often be necessary when reheating leftovers.

Conclusion

This Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup is perfect for cozy dinners, meal prepping, or when you need a hearty, nourishing meal. It’s easy to make and full of comforting flavors that the whole family will love. Try this recipe today, and don’t forget to share it with your friends and family! For more delicious recipes like this, subscribe to our blog.

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