Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup

Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup is the perfect dish for any occasion. This comforting soup combines tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and creamy broth with rice that cooks right in the pot, bringing a delightful richness to every spoonful. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a cozy family gathering, this soup will warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe can be made in just 45 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Creamy Comfort: The combination of half and half and butter creates a rich, creamy texture that elevates the soup’s flavor.
• Versatile: Customize the soup with your favorite vegetables or spices to suit your taste preferences.
• One-Pot Wonder: Everything cooks in one pot, which means less cleanup for you!
• Family-Friendly: With its delicious flavors and hearty ingredients, this soup is sure to please both kids and adults alike.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into your cooking adventure, gather your tools to streamline the process. Having everything ready will make your cooking experience smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven or large soup pot
• Mixing bowl
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring spoons
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven or large soup pot: Ideal for even heat distribution while cooking soups, ensuring all ingredients are cooked perfectly.
• Mixing bowl: Useful for marinating chicken with spices before adding it to the pot.
• Sharp knife: Ensures clean cuts when dicing vegetables, making prep work quicker and safer.

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 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
• 3 Tbsp. butter, unsalted

Vegetables:

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

Herbs:

• 1 Tbsp. fresh thyme, chopped
• 1 Tbsp. fresh rosemary, chopped

Other Ingredients:

• 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, shaved
• 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 to coat the chicken evenly with the spices. Set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

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

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Add the seasoned chicken pieces to the pot and cook until they are no longer pink inside—about 5-7 minutes. Stir in chopped thyme and rosemary to enhance flavor.

Step 4: Thicken with Flour

Sprinkle flour over the cooked vegetables and chicken mixture; stir well to coat everything evenly before moving on.

Step 5: Add Liquids

Slowly pour in chicken broth, half-and-half, soy sauce, and hot sauce while stirring gently. Then add uncooked rice into the mix; stir well again.

Step 6: Simmer

Turn up heat to medium-high until it reaches a boil; then reduce heat back down to low allowing it to simmer for about 15-20 minutes until rice is cooked through and soup has thickened nicely. Be sure to stir frequently so that rice does not stick at the bottom.

Step 7: Final Touches

Taste your creamy chicken and rice soup! Adjust seasoning by adding more hot sauce or salt as needed according to preference before ladling into bowls.

Garnish each serving with shaved Parmesan cheese, freshly cracked black pepper, and chopped parsley for extra flavor before enjoying this delightful meal!

How to Serve Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup

Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup is a comforting dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a cozy night in, these suggestions will enhance your dining experience.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Sourdough Bread: The tanginess of sourdough complements the creamy soup beautifully.
• Garlic Bread: Adds a flavorful kick that pairs well with the richness of the soup.
• Breadsticks: Soft and chewy, they make perfect dippers for the soup.

Add Fresh Toppings

• Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of grated Parmesan enhances the flavor and adds a nice texture.
• Fresh Herbs: Chopped parsley or thyme sprinkled on top gives a fresh aroma and brightens up the dish.
• Croutons: Crunchy croutons provide contrast to the creamy consistency of the soup.

Create a Complete Meal

• Simple Salad: A light green salad with vinaigrette balances out the creaminess.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrients to your meal.
• Fruit Platter: Fresh fruits can serve as a refreshing palate cleanser.

How to Perfect Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup

To achieve the ultimate Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup, keep these tips in mind. They will help you elevate your recipe to new heights.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs bring out vibrant flavors in your soup.
• Adjust Consistency: If the soup thickens too much, simply add more broth or water until desired thickness is achieved.
• Cook Rice Properly: Ensure that rice is cooked just right; overcooked rice can become mushy.
• Season Gradually: Taste as you go, adding salt and pepper incrementally for balanced flavor.
• Reheat Gently: When reheating leftovers, do so on low heat to maintain creaminess without curdling.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust seasonings or add new ones like cayenne pepper for extra heat.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup

Adding side dishes can round out your meal perfectly when enjoying Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Garlic Knots: Soft, buttery knots that are perfect for dipping into the soup.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with creamy dressing complements the richness of the soup.
3. Cheesy Quesadillas: Crispy quesadillas filled with cheese provide an enjoyable crunch alongside your soup.
4. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins offer a delightful contrast to savory flavors in the soup.
5. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds nutrients and a pop of color to your meal.
6. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs are great for soaking up leftover broth.
7. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers stuffed with grains or meat make for a hearty side option.
8. Pickled Vegetables: A side of tangy pickled veggies can brighten up each spoonful of creamy goodness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup can be a delightful experience, but some common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results.

• Skipping the seasoning: Neglecting to season your chicken properly can result in bland soup. Always ensure each component is seasoned well.
• Overcooking the rice: Cooking the rice too long can make it mushy. Keep an eye on it while simmering to achieve the perfect texture.
• Not stirring frequently: Allowing the soup to sit without stirring may cause the rice to stick. Stir often during cooking to prevent this issue.
• Ignoring broth quality: Using low-quality broth will affect flavor. Opt for homemade or high-quality store-bought chicken broth for the best taste.
• Using cold ingredients: Adding cold ingredients directly into the pot can lower cooking temperature. Let dairy and stock come to room temperature before adding.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Cool completely before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezing Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
• It’s best consumed within 2-3 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish until warmed through, about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl and heat in increments of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between for even heating.
• Stovetop: Heat on medium-low, stirring frequently until hot, adding more broth if necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

How do I make Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup thicker?

You can thicken your soup by adding more flour or using less broth. Simmering longer will also help concentrate flavors and thickness.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but brown rice requires a longer cooking time. Adjust your simmering time accordingly, as it may take up to 45 minutes.

Is Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup healthy?

This soup can be healthy when made with lean chicken and plenty of vegetables. You can also substitute half-and-half with lighter alternatives for fewer calories.

Can I customize Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to add different vegetables like peas or corn, or swap chicken for turkey for variety.

How do I store leftovers of Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze them for later use.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup is not only comforting but also versatile enough for any occasion. Customize it with your favorite veggies or proteins to suit your taste. Give it a try today; you won’t be disappointed!

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Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup is the ultimate comfort food that combines tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a rich creamy broth for a satisfying meal. With rice that cooks directly in the pot, each spoonful is bursting with flavor. Perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings, this soup not only warms the heart but also delights the palate.

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Ingredients

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• 1 1/2 lbs 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 uncooked long-grain white rice
• Fresh thyme and rosemary

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Instructions

1. Season diced chicken with salt and spices; set aside.
2. Sauté onions, carrots, and celery in melted butter until softened. Add garlic; cook briefly.
3. Add seasoned chicken to the pot; cook until no longer pink.
4. Sprinkle flour over the mixture; stir well.
5. Gradually add broth, half-and-half, soy sauce, hot sauce, and uncooked rice.
6. Bring to a boil; reduce heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes until rice is tender.
7. Adjust seasoning before serving; garnish with Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: One-pot
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 425
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 650mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 100mg