Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup

Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup is a comforting dish that brings warmth and flavor to any table. This soup combines tender chicken, wholesome vegetables, and creamy broth with rice cooked right in the pot, creating a rich and hearty meal. Perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: The blend of herbs and spices enhances the chicken and vegetable taste, making each spoonful delicious.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal prep time, you can have a warm bowl of soup ready in under an hour.
• One-Pot Wonder: Everything cooks together in one pot, meaning less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies or adjust the spice level to suit your taste.
• Great for Meal Prep: This soup stores well, making it perfect for leftovers or meal prepping for the week.

Tools and Preparation

To make Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup efficiently, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools that will help simplify the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large Dutch oven: Ideal for even heating and allows for cooking large batches of soup without spilling.
• Mixing bowl: Perfect for seasoning chicken thoroughly before adding it to the pot.
• Sharp knife: Ensures precise cutting of vegetables, making prep quick and easy.

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 Chicken:

• 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 Soup Base:

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

For Flavor:

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

For Thickening:

• 1/4 cup all purpose flour

For Liquid:

• 6 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup half and half

For Seasoning:

• 1 Tbsp. soy sauce
• 1 Tbsp. hot sauce
• 1 cup long grain white rice, uncooked
• salt and pepper, to taste

Garnish:

• Parmesan cheese (optional)
• 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 salt, Italian seasoning, mustard powder, paprika, and chili flakes. Stir to coat the chicken evenly. Set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

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

Step 3: Cook Chicken

Add the seasoned chicken pieces to the pot. Cook until no longer pink (about 5-7 minutes). Stir in fresh thyme and rosemary.

Step 4: Add Flour

Sprinkle flour over the mixture in the pot. Stir well to coat all vegetables and chicken pieces evenly with flour.

Step 5: Combine Liquids

Slowly pour in chicken broth, half-and-half, soy sauce, and hot sauce while stirring continuously. Add uncooked rice; mix well. Increase heat to medium-high until boiling occurs then reduce heat back down to low.

Step 6: Simmer

Simmer until rice is fully cooked (approximately 15-20 minutes), stirring frequently so that rice does not stick at the bottom of the pot.

Step 7: Final Touches

Taste your soup; adjust seasonings as needed with salt or hot sauce. Serve hot garnished with shaved Parmesan cheese (if using), black pepper, and fresh parsley.

This Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup is sure to delight anyone who tries it! Enjoy every nourishing bite!

How to Serve Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup

Serving Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup is a delightful experience that can be enhanced with various accompaniments. Here are some great suggestions to elevate your meal.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Adds a fresh, vibrant flavor that complements the soup.
• Thyme Leaves: Sprinkle a few fresh thyme leaves for an aromatic touch.

Add Cheese

• Parmesan Cheese: Shaved or grated on top enhances the creaminess and gives a savory kick.
• Cheddar Cheese: Melted cheese can add a rich and gooey texture to each bowl.

Serve with Bread

• Crusty Bread Rolls: Perfect for dipping, these rolls soak up the broth beautifully.
• Garlic Bread: A classic side that adds flavor and crunch to your meal.

Pair with Salads

• Caesar Salad: A light salad that balances the richness of the soup.
• Mixed Green Salad: Tossed greens with a light vinaigrette can refresh your palate.

How to Perfect Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup

Perfecting your Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup ensures every bowl is comforting and delicious. Follow these tips for the best results.

• Use Quality Chicken Broth: A rich, homemade chicken broth greatly enhances the flavor of your soup.
• Sauté Vegetables Properly: Take time to sauté onions, carrots, and celery until they are tender for maximum flavor.
• Monitor Rice Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the rice; it should be tender but not mushy. Stir frequently to prevent sticking.
• Adjust Consistency as Needed: If the soup thickens too much, add more broth or water until you reach your desired consistency.
• Season Gradually: Taste as you go; adjusting salt, pepper, and hot sauce incrementally will develop deeper flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup can make for a hearty meal. Consider these options:

1. Garlic Breadsticks: Soft breadsticks brushed with garlic butter add warmth and flavor.
2. Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, basil, mozzarella, drizzled with balsamic vinegar offer a refreshing contrast.
3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy and slightly caramelized sprouts enhance the meal’s overall appeal.
4. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins provide a delightful sweetness alongside the savory soup.
5. Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed salad made with quinoa, veggies, and lemon dressing offers a nutritious balance.
6. Stuffed Peppers: Filled with rice, beans, or vegetables; these add heartiness without overwhelming the palate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup, there are a few common pitfalls to be aware of. Avoiding these mistakes can lead to a more delicious and satisfying soup.

• Overcooking the Chicken: If you cook the chicken for too long, it can become dry. Make sure to remove it from the heat as soon as it’s no longer pink.
• Neglecting Seasoning: Under-seasoning can result in bland soup. Taste your broth throughout cooking and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and hot sauce as needed.
• Not Stirring Frequently: The rice can stick to the bottom of the pot if you don’t stir often. Keep stirring every few minutes while it simmers to prevent this.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Adding cold broth or dairy can lower the cooking temperature too much. Warm them up slightly before adding to maintain a steady simmer.
• Skipping the Garnishes: Garnishes like fresh parsley and Parmesan add flavor and texture. Don’t skip these; they enhance the final dish significantly.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before storing.

Freezing Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Leave some room at the top of the container since liquids expand when frozen.

Reheating Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered oven-safe dish for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, covering loosely. Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a saucepan, stirring frequently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup that may help clarify any uncertainties you have.

How do I make Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup healthier?

You can use low-fat half-and-half or substitute with plant-based milk alternatives for a lighter version while still keeping it creamy.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but keep in mind that brown rice takes longer to cook. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.

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

Feel free to include vegetables like peas, spinach, or corn for added nutrition and flavor.

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

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for later use.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! This soup tastes even better the next day as flavors meld together.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup is not only comforting but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting seasonings. This recipe is perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a quick meal that’s both hearty and satisfying. Give it a try!

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Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup

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

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Description

Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup is a delightful comfort food that warms both body and soul. With tender chicken, nutritious vegetables, and creamy broth, this easy one-pot meal is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. The rice cooks directly in the soup, infusing it with flavor and making each spoonful rich and hearty. Customize it with your favorite veggies or adjust the spices to create a dish that’s uniquely yours. Enjoy this nourishing bowl of goodness that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 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 unsalted butter
• 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
• Parmesan cheese (optional)
• Black pepper
• Fresh parsley

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Instructions

1. Season diced chicken with salt, Italian seasoning, mustard powder, paprika, and chili flakes.
2. In a large Dutch oven, melt butter and sauté diced onions, carrots, celery, and garlic until softened.
3. Add seasoned chicken and cook until no longer pink; stir in herbs.
4. Sprinkle flour over the mixture and stir well.
5. Gradually add chicken broth, half-and-half, soy sauce, hot sauce, and uncooked rice. Bring to a boil then reduce heat to low.
6. Simmer until the rice is cooked through (15-20 minutes), stirring frequently.
7. Adjust seasoning to taste before serving hot garnished with parsley.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Soup
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 1.5 cups)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 33g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 22g
• Cholesterol: 90mg