Irresistible Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup Recipe

Recipe By:
Daniel Lawson
Updated:

The aroma of creamy chicken and rice soup wafts through the kitchen, wrapping you in a warm embrace that feels like a hug on a chilly day. Each spoonful delivers a comforting blend of savory flavors, creamy textures, and tender chicken that makes you sigh with delight.

This soup isn’t just food; it’s a memory-maker. Picture snowy afternoons spent with loved ones, cozying up with bowls of this deliciousness while laughter fills the room. It’s the ultimate comfort dish for any occasion, promising an explosion of taste that warms your heart and soul.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • This creamy chicken and rice soup is so easy to prepare, even your pet goldfish could manage it
  • The flavor profile balances richness and warmth, creating a dish everyone adores
  • Its creamy texture invites you to savor each bite while feeling nourished
  • Plus, it’s versatile enough to be enjoyed year-round for any meal

I remember making this soup for my family one winter evening. Their smiles said it all as they slurped away, proving that food truly can bring people together.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts work best; adjust based on how hungry everyone is.

  • Long-Grain White Rice: Use white rice for its quick cooking time and perfect texture.

  • Carrots: Fresh carrots add sweetness and color; dice them small for even cooking.

  • Celery: Celery provides crunch and depth; choose firm stalks for the best flavor.

  • Onion: Use yellow or white onions; they caramelize beautifully when cooked.

  • Garlic: Freshly minced garlic brings vibrant flavor; use more if you’re feeling adventurous.

  • Chicken Broth: Opt for low-sodium broth to control saltiness; it’s the soup’s backbone.

  • Cream or Milk: Heavy cream gives richness, but whole milk works well for lighter versions.

  • Dried Thyme: A key herb here adds earthy notes; feel free to use fresh if available.

  • Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors in the soup.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Prepare Your Ingredients : Begin by gathering all your ingredients on the counter. Chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces while daydreaming about how good this soup will taste.

Sauté the Veggies : In a large pot over medium heat, melt some butter. Add diced onions, carrots, and celery until they soften and become aromatic—about 5 minutes will do.

Add Chicken : Toss in those glorious chunks of chicken breast. Stir them around until they turn golden brown and your kitchen smells divine—this should take about 6-8 minutes.

Pour in Broth : Add your low-sodium chicken broth along with thyme and season with salt and pepper. Bring everything to a gentle simmer; let it bubble away while you admire your work.

Add Rice : Toss in long-grain white rice now and stir gently. Allow it to cook for about 15-20 minutes until fluffy while keeping an eye on its progress like a proud parent watching their child ride a bike.

Create Creaminess : Finally, lower the heat and stir in cream or milk until well combined. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until it thickens slightly, then taste-test like a pro chef—you deserve it!

Now that you have your creamy chicken and rice soup ready to go, serve it hot! Enjoy with crusty bread or crackers for added crunch—a perfect pairing!

You Must Know

  • Creamy chicken and rice soup is a hug in a bowl
  • This dish not only warms you up but also fills your home with delightful aromas
  • It’s perfect for those chilly evenings when you need comfort food that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing onions and garlic until fragrant, then add diced chicken for a golden crust. Next, simmer with broth before incorporating rice and cream for the ultimate creamy texture.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap in vegetables like carrots or peas, use brown rice for added fiber, or experiment with herbs such as thyme or rosemary to create your signature flavor.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to restore creaminess.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • To achieve the best flavor, consider using homemade chicken stock instead of water
  • Don’t rush the sauté process; let those veggies soften beautifully
  • Lastly, always taste before serving; adjustments can make all the difference!

The first time I made creamy chicken and rice soup, I was convinced my kids would run away from dinner. Instead, they licked their bowls clean and asked for seconds!

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use leftover chicken for creamy chicken and rice soup?

Absolutely! Just add it towards the end of cooking to warm it through without drying out.

What can I substitute for cream in this recipe?

Coconut milk or unsweetened almond milk works wonderfully as lighter alternatives.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Simply use gluten-free rice or a gluten-free thickener to maintain that creamy consistency.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Warm up your chilly evenings with this creamy chicken and rice soup—a comforting bowl of savory goodness. Tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a medley of vegetables combine in a rich, creamy broth that wraps you in warmth. Perfect for family gatherings or a quiet night in, this recipe is as easy to make as it is delicious. Serve it with crusty bread for an unforgettable meal that feels like a hug in every spoonful.

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 6

Ingredients

Scale
  • 34 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1 lb)
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice
  • 2 medium carrots, diced
  • 2 stalks celery, diced
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream (or whole milk)
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Gather all ingredients and chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
  2. In a large pot over medium heat, melt some butter. Add diced onions, carrots, and celery; sauté until softened (about 5 minutes).
  3. Add the chicken pieces and cook until golden brown (6-8 minutes).
  4. Pour in the chicken broth along with thyme; season with salt and pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer.
  5. Stir in the rice and cook for 15-20 minutes until fluffy.
  6. Lower the heat and mix in the cream until well combined; cook for another 5 minutes.
  7. Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers for an added crunch!
  • Author: DANIEL LAWSON
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
  • Calories: 380
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 650mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 20g
  • Cholesterol: 75mg

You might also like these recipes

Leave a Comment

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star