A piping hot bowl of this creamy chicken and rice soup recipe is such a comfort on a cold day! It’s simple to make with no fancy ingredients, and the rich broth is irresistible. This soup is perfect for family dinners, cozy nights in, or whenever you crave a warm and satisfying meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With just a handful of ingredients, this recipe comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of sautéed vegetables, tender chicken, and creamy broth creates a deliciously comforting flavor that everyone will enjoy.
- Versatile: Customize this soup by adding your favorite vegetables or spices to cater to your taste buds.
- Perfect for Leftovers: This soup keeps well in the fridge, making it an excellent choice for meal prep or quick lunches throughout the week.
- Nutritious: Packed with protein from chicken and fiber from vegetables, it’s a wholesome option that nourishes the body.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools. Having everything ready makes the preparation smoother.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Soup pot
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon
Importance of Each Tool
- Soup pot: A sturdy pot ensures even cooking and prevents the soup from burning.
- Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables without damaging your countertops.
- Knife: A sharp knife makes quick work of chopping ingredients, saving you time in the kitchen.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 stick celery (chopped finely)
– 2 medium carrots (peeled & chopped finely)
– 1/2 medium onion (chopped)
– 3 cloves garlic (minced)
– 3 tablespoons flour
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– 3/4 cup uncooked white jasmine rice
– 1 cup heavy/whipping cream
– 1 pound uncooked chicken breasts (cut into bite-size pieces/strips)
– Salt & pepper (to taste)
How to Make Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup
Step 1: Sauté Vegetables
Add the olive oil, celery, carrots, and onion to a soup pot over medium-high heat. Sauté for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally until they are tender.
Step 2: Add Garlic and Flour
Stir in the garlic and flour. Cook for about one minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Pour in Chicken Broth
Slowly pour in the chicken broth while stirring. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot until the flour has dissolved completely.
Step 4: Mix in Seasonings and Rice
Stir in the Italian seasoning, uncooked rice, and heavy cream. Increase heat to high. Once the soup reaches a gentle boil, give it a good stir. Then reduce heat to a simmer, covering with the lid slightly ajar. Simmer for about 10 minutes while stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 5: Add Chicken
Finally, add in the bite-sized chicken pieces. Cook for an additional 7–10 minutes or until both chicken and rice are fully cooked. Season generously with salt and pepper as needed. If you prefer a thinner soup consistency, add more chicken broth since this soup thickens as it sits. For leftovers, consider cooking rice separately if you don’t plan on eating it right away.
Enjoy your delicious bowl of creamy chicken and rice soup!
How to Serve Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup
Serving creamy chicken and rice soup can elevate your dining experience. This comforting dish is versatile and can be paired with various toppings and sides to enhance its flavor.
Toppings
- Fresh Herbs: Adding chopped parsley or cilantro provides a fresh flavor that brightens the soup.
- Croutons: Crunchy croutons add texture and are perfect for scooping up the creamy goodness.
- Shredded Cheese: A sprinkle of cheddar or Parmesan cheese melts beautifully into the hot soup, adding richness.
- Lemon Squeeze: A dash of fresh lemon juice can cut through the creaminess, adding a zesty kick.
Accompaniments
- Bread Rolls: Warm bread rolls are perfect for dipping into the soup and soaking up the delicious broth.
- Salad: A light green salad with vinaigrette complements the richness of the soup, providing a refreshing contrast.
- Pickles: Tangy pickles can offer a delightful crunch and acidity that balances the creaminess.
How to Perfect Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup
Making the perfect creamy chicken and rice soup takes practice. Here are some tips to ensure your soup turns out delicious every time.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance flavor dramatically compared to their dried counterparts.
- Control Heat Carefully: Keep an eye on the heat while simmering; too high can make the rice mushy, while too low may not cook it properly.
- Adjust Consistency: If your soup becomes too thick, gradually add more chicken broth until you reach your desired consistency.
- Cook Rice Separately If Needed: If planning leftovers, cooking rice separately will help it maintain its texture when reheated later.
Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup
Pairing side dishes with creamy chicken and rice soup can create a complete meal. Here are some fantastic options to consider.
- Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is a classic choice that adds flavor and crunch alongside your warm soup.
- Caesar Salad: The crisp romaine lettuce tossed in Caesar dressing complements the creaminess of the soup perfectly.
- Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed broccoli or green beans provide a healthy balance to this rich dish.
- Stuffed Peppers: Flavorful stuffed peppers make an excellent hearty side that pairs well with the soup’s texture.
- Potato Wedges: Crunchy potato wedges seasoned with herbs offer a satisfying contrast to your creamy bowl of goodness.
- Pasta Salad: A cold pasta salad brings a refreshing element to your meal, making it feel light yet filling.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making creamy chicken and rice soup can be a breeze, but a few common mistakes can derail your efforts. Here are some pitfalls to avoid:
Skipping the sauté step: Failing to sauté the vegetables can lead to a bland soup. Always start by cooking the celery, carrots, and onion in olive oil to enhance their flavors.
Using old ingredients: Using stale rice or expired chicken broth will affect the taste. Always check the freshness of your ingredients before starting.
Neglecting seasoning: Under-seasoning can make your soup taste flat. Don’t forget to add salt and pepper generously, adjusting to your preference as it cooks.
Not simmering long enough: Rushing through cooking can leave your chicken undercooked and rice too firm. Allow sufficient time for simmering to ensure everything is tender and flavorful.
Overcooking the rice: Adding too much time for cooking rice in the soup can result in mushiness. Monitor your simmer closely and add the rice with care.
Ignoring leftovers storage: Not properly storing leftovers can lead to waste. Make sure to refrigerate or freeze any remaining soup promptly for later enjoyment.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover creamy chicken and rice soup in an airtight container.
- It will stay fresh for 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 2-3 months; just remember that rice may change texture after thawing.
Reheating Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the soup in an oven-safe dish covered with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Pour the soup into a microwave-safe bowl, cover it loosely, and heat on high for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until hot throughout. Add extra broth if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions about making creamy chicken and rice soup, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.
Can I use brown rice instead of white jasmine rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice; however, it may take longer to cook. Adjust your simmering time accordingly so that the brown rice becomes tender.
How do I make this creamy chicken and rice soup healthier?
To lighten up this recipe, consider using low-fat cream or substituting half-and-half instead of heavy cream. You could also add more vegetables like spinach or kale for added nutrition.
Can I make creamy chicken and rice soup in advance?
Absolutely! This soup is great made ahead of time. Just store it properly in the fridge or freezer as mentioned above.
What goes well with creamy chicken and rice soup?
This comforting soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh garden salad, making it a complete meal!
How can I customize my creamy chicken and rice soup?
Feel free to add herbs like thyme or parsley for extra flavor. You could also toss in some cooked mushrooms or peas for variety!
Final Thoughts
Creamy chicken and rice soup is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it with different vegetables or spices based on your preference. Whether enjoyed on a chilly day or served at family gatherings, this recipe is sure to satisfy cravings while bringing warmth and comfort to your table. Give it a try; you won’t be disappointed!
Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup
Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for warming up on chilly days. This rich and hearty dish combines tender chicken, creamy broth, and flavorful vegetables to create a delightful meal that everyone will love. With minimal ingredients and easy preparation, this soup is ideal for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. Customize it with your favorite veggies or spices to make it uniquely yours! Whether served as a main course or paired with warm bread, this nourishing soup promises to satisfy your cravings and bring warmth to your table.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 stick celery (chopped finely)
- 2 medium carrots (peeled & chopped finely)
- 1/2 medium onion (chopped)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 3/4 cup uncooked white jasmine rice
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 pound uncooked chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- Salt & pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- In a soup pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sauté celery, carrots, and onion for 5–7 minutes until tender.
- Stir in garlic and flour; cook for an additional minute.
- Gradually pour in chicken broth while stirring, scraping up any browned bits.
- Add Italian seasoning, rice, and heavy cream; bring to a gentle boil, then lower heat and simmer for about 10 minutes.
- Incorporate the chicken pieces and cook for another 7–10 minutes until fully cooked. Season with salt and pepper as desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
