Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup

Name: Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 1 cup white rice, uncooked; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 onion, chopped; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil

Highlighted under: Comfort Food Recipes

This creamy chicken and rice soup is the perfect comfort food, packed with flavor and warmth.

Created by

Emily Carter

Last updated on 2025-12-05T17:26:21.380Z

This creamy chicken and rice soup is not only delicious but also a family favorite! Perfect for chilly evenings, it warms you from the inside out.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich, creamy texture that comforts the soul
Filled with tender chicken and hearty rice
Quick and easy to prepare on a busy weeknight

      

A Hearty Meal in a Bowl

Creamy chicken and rice soup is more than just a meal; it's a warm embrace on a chilly day. Its rich, velvety texture combined with tender chicken and hearty rice creates a comforting experience that everyone loves. The flavors meld beautifully, offering a delightful balance of creaminess and nourishing goodness, making it a perfect dish for family gatherings or cozy nights in.

This soup is also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it to suit your tastes by adding vegetables like peas, corn, or spinach, or even swapping out the chicken for turkey or a meat alternative. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to experiment while still enjoying the core essence of this beloved dish.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply looking for a quick weeknight meal, creamy chicken and rice soup fits the bill. It comes together in just a few simple steps, making it accessible even for beginner cooks. Plus, it can be made in large batches, so you can easily feed a crowd or prepare meals for the week ahead.

This soup is not only comforting but also incredibly satisfying. The combination of protein from the chicken and carbohydrates from the rice ensures that you'll feel full and content after just one bowl. Serve it with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal that will impress your guests.

Storing and Reheating Tips

If you find yourself with leftovers, you're in luck! Creamy chicken and rice soup stores beautifully in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore its creamy consistency.

For longer storage, consider freezing the soup. It can be frozen for up to three months, but keep in mind that the texture may change slightly upon thawing. To reheat frozen soup, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and warm it gently on the stove, stirring frequently to ensure even heating.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 cup white rice, uncooked
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 onion, chopped
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil

Make sure to have all ingredients ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.

Add Garlic and Rice

Stir in the garlic and uncooked rice, cooking for another 2 minutes until fragrant.

Add Broth and Chicken

Pour in the chicken broth and add the shredded chicken. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20 minutes.

Stir in Cream

Once the rice is cooked, stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat through before serving.

Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Nutritional Benefits

Creamy chicken and rice soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits. Chicken is a great source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth. The addition of vegetables like carrots and celery provides vitamins, minerals, and fiber, contributing to overall health and well-being.

Furthermore, the heavy cream adds richness and a dose of calcium, which is important for bone health. While this soup is indulgent, it can certainly fit into a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation.

Serving Suggestions

For an extra touch of flavor, consider garnishing your creamy chicken and rice soup with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme. A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese can also elevate the dish, adding a savory note that complements the creamy base beautifully.

Pair your soup with a light, fresh salad or some homemade garlic bread for a delightful contrast. This creates a well-rounded meal that satisfies both the palate and the appetite, making it perfect for any dining occasion.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use leftover chicken?

Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken works great in this recipe.

→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, you can make it ahead. Just reheat gently on the stove.

→ Is there a way to make this soup lighter?

You can substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream or use a lower fat chicken broth.

→ Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, it freezes well. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring to an airtight container.