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: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 medium carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 cup cooked rice; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Rustic Ideas

I absolutely adore this Creamy Chicken And Rice Soup! Every time I make it, I am transported back to cozy family dinners. The blend of tender chicken, fragrant herbs, and creamy broth creates a dish that is not only comforting but also satisfying. This recipe is perfect when you're craving something warm and hearty, and I love how the rice thickens the soup beautifully. It’s an easy recipe that I often whip up after a long day, and I'm sure it will become a favorite in your home too!

Created by

Unity Caldwell

Last updated on 2026-01-24T10:05:34.945Z

When I first experimented with this Creamy Chicken And Rice Soup, I wasn't sure how the combination of ingredients would turn out. After several tries, I found that using homemade chicken stock makes a significant difference in flavor. I also learned to sauté the onions and garlic until they're golden to enhance their sweetness.

One of my favorite tips is to let the soup simmer longer with the lid slightly ajar. This allows for a thicker consistency while preventing it from becoming overly watery. Believe me, the satisfaction of serving a freshly made bowl of this soup on a chilly evening is second to none!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich, creamy texture that warms the soul
Perfectly seasoned with herbs for a homestyle taste
One-pot meal for easy cleanup and minimal hassle

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The beauty of this Creamy Chicken And Rice Soup lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. The combination of carrots, celery, and onions, known as mirepoix, forms the base of the soup, providing a depth of flavor. Make sure to dice these vegetables evenly so they cook uniformly. You can also substitute frozen mixed vegetables if you’re short on time; just toss them in the pot after adding the chicken broth to heat through before serving.

Using high-quality chicken broth is crucial for achieving the rich, comforting flavor characteristic of this soup. If you prefer, you can substitute homemade broth, which adds a lovely depth of flavor and richness. Additionally, for a lighter version, opt for low-fat chicken broth or even vegetable broth, but be sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly to maintain the intended flavor balance.

Techniques for Creaminess

To achieve the creaminess that distinguishes this soup, it’s essential to stir in the heavy cream gently. Bring the mixture to a low simmer after adding the cream, but avoid boiling it, as high heat can cause the cream to curdle. Visual cues like a glossy finish on the surface of the soup signal that it’s ready to be served. If desired, you can use half-and-half as a lighter alternative, but the cream truly elevates the texture.

When incorporating rice, ensure it's cooked beforehand to prevent it from absorbing too much liquid and becoming mushy in the soup. For a heartier option, use brown rice instead, which will maintain its texture better and add a nutty flavor. Keep in mind that brown rice requires a longer cooking time, so it’s best to prepare it separately ahead of time if you decide to swap.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to get started on this delicious soup:

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 medium carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup cooked rice
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to have everything prepped before you start cooking for a smooth process!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your own bowl of Creamy Chicken And Rice Soup:

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are soft and the onions are translucent, about 5-7 minutes.

Combine the Ingredients

Stir in the cooked chicken and chicken broth, then add the thyme. Bring to a simmer and let it cook for about 15 minutes.

Add Rice and Cream

Stir in the cooked rice and heavy cream, mixing well. Allow the soup to simmer for another 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your warm and comforting Creamy Chicken And Rice Soup!

Serve this delightful soup with warm bread for a perfect meal!

Pro Tips

For an added layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon juice before serving. It brightens the soup beautifully.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This soup stores wonderfully, making it perfect for meal prep. After the soup cools, transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup thickens too much upon cooling, feel free to add a splash of chicken broth or water to achieve your desired consistency before serving.

For longer storage, you can freeze this soup for up to 3 months. Just be sure to leave out the heavy cream before freezing, as it can separate when thawed. After defrosting, stir the cream back in while reheating for that creamy texture. This makes for a quick weeknight dinner solution—simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop!

Serving Suggestions

As this Creamy Chicken And Rice Soup is hearty enough to stand on its own, it pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or some crusty baguette. For a lively twist, consider adding a sprinkle of lemon juice or zest before serving, which brightens up the rich flavors and adds a refreshing contrast. You might also serve it with a drizzle of olive oil or some grated Parmesan on top for an extra touch of richness.

Feel free to customize your serving options by adding toppings such as croutons for crunch, or even a dollop of sour cream for added creaminess. This makes each bowl feel distinctive, and guests can personalize their soup to their taste. You can also add fresh herbs like dill or chives for a burst of freshness right before serving, enhancing both presentation and flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use leftovers for this recipe?

Absolutely! Leftover roast chicken works wonderfully in this soup.

→ Can I make this soup in advance?

Yes, the soup can be made ahead, but it's best to add the rice just before serving to prevent it from becoming mushy.

→ Is there a way to make this soup lighter?

You can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or milk for a lighter option.

→ What can I serve with the soup?

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a simple salad, or crackers.