Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup

Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for cozy evenings or gatherings with family and friends. The rich, creamy broth combined with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and hearty rice creates a dish that is both satisfying and nourishing. This delightful soup is not only easy to make but also versatile enough to adapt to your taste preferences. Whether you’re looking for a warming meal on a chilly day or a dish to impress guests, this creamy chicken and rice soup will shine on any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of herbs and spices enhances the natural taste of the chicken and veggies.
• Comforting Texture: The rice absorbs the broth, giving the soup a thick, creamy consistency that warms you from the inside out.
• Versatile: Customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices to suit your family’s preferences.
• Great for Meal Prep: This soup stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this delicious creamy chicken and rice soup, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large Dutch oven: Perfect for even heat distribution, allowing your soup to cook evenly without burning.
• Sharp knife: Makes chopping vegetables quick and easy, ensuring uniform pieces that cook evenly.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements help achieve the perfect balance of flavors in your creamy chicken and rice soup.

Ingredients

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 Vegetables

• 3 Tbsp. butter, unsalted
• 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

For the Broth

• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup half and half
• 1 Tbsp. soy sauce
• 1 Tbsp. hot sauce

For the Rice

• 1 cup long grain white rice, uncooked

Seasoning

• Salt and pepper, to taste

Garnish

• Parmesan cheese, 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 salt, Italian seasoning, mustard powder, paprika, and chili flakes; stir to coat the chicken evenly. Set aside while you prepare the vegetables.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Heat a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Melt the butter in it. Add onions, carrots, and celery with kosher salt to taste. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until soft; then add garlic and stir for another 30 seconds.

Step 3: Cook Chicken

Add the seasoned chicken pieces into the pot. Cook until no longer pink in color; then stir in thyme and rosemary until fragrant.

Step 4: Incorporate Flour

Sprinkle flour over the vegetables and chicken mixture. Stir well to coat everything evenly with flour.

Step 5: Add Liquid & Rice

Slowly pour in chicken broth, half-and-half, soy sauce, hot sauce, then add uncooked rice. Stir well to combine all ingredients.

Step 6: Simmer Soup

Increase heat to medium-high to bring soup to a boil; then reduce heat to low. Let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes until rice is cooked through and soup thickens. Stir frequently so rice doesn’t stick.

Step 7: Final Touches

Taste your creamy chicken and rice soup; adjust seasoning with more hot sauce or salt as desired. Ladle into bowls garnished with shaved Parmesan cheese, black pepper, and fresh parsley before serving warm.

Enjoy this comforting bowl of creamy chicken goodness!

How to Serve Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup

Serving Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup can elevate your meal experience. This hearty soup is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner or a cozy night in. Here are some great serving suggestions to enhance your dish.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Fresh Parsley: Sprinkle chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness.
• Thyme Sprigs: Add whole thyme sprigs for an aromatic touch.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Baguette Slices: Serve warm, crusty baguette slices alongside the soup for dipping.
• Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread complements the creamy flavors beautifully.

Serve with a Salad

• Caesar Salad: A light Caesar salad balances the richness of the soup.
• Mixed Greens: A simple mixed green salad with vinaigrette offers freshness.

Offer Additional Toppings

• Shredded Cheese: Provide shredded cheese like cheddar or mozzarella for extra creaminess.
• Hot Sauce: Keep hot sauce on the table for those who like a little extra heat.

How to Perfect Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup

To make your Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup even better, consider these helpful tips. Following these suggestions will help you achieve the best flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance the overall taste of your soup.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust salt, pepper, and spices according to your preference.
• Cook Rice Separately: If you prefer less thickening, cook rice separately and add it just before serving.
• Thicken with Flour Gradually: Add flour gradually to prevent lumps; ensure it’s well mixed before adding broth.
• Stir Frequently: Stirring often prevents rice from sticking to the bottom of the pot during cooking.
• Store Properly: For leftovers, store in airtight containers. Add more broth when reheating to adjust consistency.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup

Complementing your Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup with side dishes can create a more satisfying meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Breadsticks: Soft breadsticks brushed with garlic butter are perfect for dipping into the soup.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrition to your meal.
3. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy soup.
4. Cheesy Quesadillas: Simple cheese quesadillas offer a fun twist that pairs well with soup.
5. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins are delightful alongside rich soups.
6. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers make for a hearty side that complements the soup’s flavors.
7. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad adds sweetness and balances the savory notes of the soup.
8. Crispy Potato Wedges: Seasoned potato wedges provide crunch and satisfaction next to your creamy bowl of goodness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Skipping the seasoning: Many cooks forget to season at every step. Ensure you season the chicken and vegetables properly for maximum flavor.
• Overcooking the rice: If you let the rice cook too long, it may become mushy. Keep an eye on it during simmering for the best texture.
• Not stirring enough: Stirring is crucial to prevent sticking. Be diligent in stirring while cooking to keep the rice from sticking to the bottom.
• Using cold broth: Adding cold broth can shock the soup and hinder cooking. Always have your broth at room temperature or warm before adding it in.
• Ignoring leftovers storage: Leftovers can spoil if not stored correctly. Make sure you cool and store them in airtight containers promptly.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• The soup will last for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• This soup can be frozen for up to 2-3 months; just remember that rice may change texture.

Reheating Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat until warm.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, covering loosely. Stir halfway through for even heating.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a pot, stirring often until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

How can I make my Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup thicker?

You can add more flour while cooking or reduce the liquid by simmering longer. Adjust according to your preference!

Can I use brown rice instead of white?

Yes, but note that brown rice takes longer to cook. Adjust your cooking time accordingly for best results.

What can I use instead of half and half?

You can substitute with coconut milk or almond milk for a lighter option while still maintaining creaminess.

How do I store leftover Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup?

Store it in airtight containers in the refrigerator or freeze it for future meals.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup is a comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Its rich flavors make it a family favorite, and it’s easy to customize with your choice of vegetables or spices. Try making this delicious soup today – you’ll love how versatile it is!

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Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup

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

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Description

Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup is the epitome of comfort food, perfect for cozy evenings or gatherings. This delightful soup combines tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and hearty rice in a rich and creamy broth that nourishes the soul. Easy to prepare and adaptable to your taste preferences, it’s a fantastic option for impressing guests or enjoying a warming meal on chilly days. Whether you’re seeking a satisfying dish for family dinner or a comforting bowl to warm you up, this creamy chicken and rice soup will be a hit at any table.

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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, black pepper, fresh parsley for garnish

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Instructions

1. Place the diced chicken pieces in a medium-sized mixing bowl. Add salt, Italian seasoning, mustard powder, paprika, and chili flakes; stir to coat the chicken evenly. Set aside while you prepare the vegetables.
2. Heat a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Melt the butter in it. Add onions, carrots, and celery with kosher salt to taste. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until soft; then add garlic and stir for another 30 seconds.
3. Add the seasoned chicken pieces into the pot. Cook until no longer pink in color; then stir in thyme and rosemary until fragrant.
4. Sprinkle flour over the vegetables and chicken mixture. Stir well to coat everything evenly with flour.
5. Slowly pour in chicken broth, half-and-half, soy sauce, hot sauce, then add uncooked rice. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
6. Increase heat to medium-high to bring soup to a boil; then reduce heat to low. Let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes until rice is cooked through and soup thickens. Stir frequently so rice doesn’t stick.
7. Taste your creamy chicken and rice soup; adjust seasoning with more hot sauce or salt as desired. Ladle into bowls garnished with shaved Parmesan cheese, black pepper, and fresh parsley before serving warm.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 950mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 100mg