Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup

Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup is a cozy dish that warms the soul. This hearty soup combines tender chicken, fresh veggies, and creamy broth with rice cooked right in, making it rich and satisfying. Perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings, this recipe stands out for its comforting flavors and simplicity.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe requires minimal prep time, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of spices and fresh herbs adds depth to the creamy broth.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily modify the veggies or add your favorite seasonings to customize the soup.
• Comforting Meal: This soup is ideal for chilly days, providing warmth and satisfaction.
• Great for Leftovers: The flavors deepen as it sits, making it even tastier the next day.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup, you’ll need a few essential tools that make cooking easier and more efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven or large soup pot
• Medium mixing bowl
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven: This heavy pot retains heat well, ensuring even cooking and thorough flavor development.
• Mixing bowl: Helps in seasoning and preparing ingredients together before cooking.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for achieving the perfect balance of flavors.

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

• 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 & Spices

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

Broth & Creaminess

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

Rice & Seasonings

• 1 cup long grain white rice, uncooked
• 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 the salt, Italian seasoning, mustard powder, paprika, and chili flakes. Stir well to coat the chicken evenly. Set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

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

Step 3: Cook Chicken

Add the seasoned chicken pieces to the pot. Cook until they are no longer pink inside. Stir in the thyme and rosemary to incorporate the flavors.

Step 4: Thicken with Flour

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

Step 5: Add Broth & Rice

Slowly pour in the chicken broth along with half & half, soy sauce, and hot sauce. Add in the uncooked rice as well. Stir everything together until combined. Increase heat to medium-high until boiling then reduce heat back down to low to simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until rice is cooked through.

Step 6: Adjust Consistency

Since this soup has rice cooked directly in it, expect some thickening as it simmers due to starch release from rice. If needed when reheating leftovers or if too thick initially, add more broth or water.

Step 7: Final Touches

Taste your soup! Adjust with more hot sauce, salt or pepper as desired. Ladle into bowls and garnish each serving with shaved Parmesan cheese, a sprinkle of black pepper, and freshly chopped parsley before enjoying!

How to Serve Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup

Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup is a comforting dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Serving this delicious soup creatively can elevate the dining experience and make it even more enjoyable.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• A fresh loaf of crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy broth. Choose a sourdough or a baguette for added flavor.

Serve with a Side Salad

• A light side salad adds freshness to the meal. Opt for a simple mixed green salad with vinaigrette to balance the richness of the soup.

Top with Fresh Herbs

• Garnishing with fresh parsley or chives not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a burst of flavor.

Add Extra Cheese

• For cheese lovers, sprinkling additional Parmesan or cheddar on top makes every bowl even creamier and more indulgent.

Use as a Base for Other Dishes

• This soup can also be used as a base for casseroles or served over rice for a heartier meal option.

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How to Perfect Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup

To ensure your Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs will enhance the flavors of your soup significantly.
• Monitor Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the cooking time to prevent overcooking the rice; it should be tender but not mushy.
• Adjust Seasoning: Always taste before serving; this allows you to adjust salt, pepper, or hot sauce according to your preference.
• Control Thickness: If the soup thickens too much while sitting, add extra broth or water when reheating to reach your desired consistency.
• Store Properly: Store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge. This keeps them fresh for up to three days.
• Reheat Gently: When reheating, do so on low heat and stir frequently to prevent sticking at the bottom of the pot.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup

Enjoying Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup is delightful on its own, but pairing it with complementary side dishes can enhance your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: Deliciously buttery garlic bread is perfect for scooping up soup.
2. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: The classic grilled cheese adds comfort and pairs well with creamy soups.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies provide a healthy crunch and contrast nicely against the smooth soup.
4. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs make for a satisfying side that everyone loves.
5. Stuffed Peppers: These can be filled with grains and cheese, offering an additional layer of flavor alongside your soup.
6. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins complement the savory nature of the soup while providing a delightful texture.
7. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crispness and tanginess that balances out the richness of the soup.
8. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad serves as a light contrast, cleansing your palate between bites of creamy 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: Failing to properly season the chicken and vegetables can lead to a bland soup. Always season each layer of your dish.
• Overcooking the Rice: If you cook the rice for too long, it may turn mushy. Keep an eye on it and taste frequently during simmering.
• Ignoring Consistency: The soup may thicken too much as it cools. Adjust the consistency by adding more broth or water when reheating.
• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Using subpar chicken or broth will affect the flavor greatly. Always choose fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best results.
• Not Stirring Enough: Rice can stick to the bottom of the pot if not stirred regularly. Make sure to stir frequently during cooking.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in airtight containers for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 2-3 months.
• Leave some space in containers, as liquids expand when frozen.

Reheating Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• Microwave: Heat in microwave-safe bowls for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
• Stovetop: Reheat gently over low heat, adding broth or water as needed to reach desired consistency.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup creamy?

The creaminess comes from half-and-half added at the end of cooking, which enriches the soup’s texture without being overly heavy.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but note that brown rice takes longer to cook. You may need to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

How can I customize my Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup?

Add different vegetables like peas or corn, or include herbs such as dill or parsley for extra flavor.

Is this soup healthy?

With lean chicken, vegetables, and minimal fat from half-and-half, it can be a nutritious option. Adjusting portions can enhance its health benefits.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! This soup tastes even better after sitting for a day. Just remember to store properly and reheat as directed.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup is a delightful blend of flavors that warms your soul. It’s versatile enough for any occasion—whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a comforting meal on a chilly day. Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or spices!