This Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup Recipe is one of those soul-warming dishes that feels like a big hug on a chilly day. With tender chicken, velvety cream, and perfectly cooked rice all mingling in a luscious broth infused with fresh vegetables and herbs, this soup becomes an instant favorite. It’s comfort food that’s satisfying and nourishing, easy enough to whip up on any weeknight yet fancy enough to impress guests. Trust me, once you make this recipe, it’ll quickly become your go-to for cozy evenings and feel-good lunches.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This soup’s magic comes from simple, wholesome ingredients that all play their part in creating incredible flavor and texture. Each one is essential, from the fresh veggies that add color and crunch to the creamy finish that ties everything together.
- Olive oil: A quality olive oil helps sauté the vegetables and brings subtle richness to the base of the soup.
- Celery: Finely chopped celery adds a wonderful aromatic crunch and balances the creaminess with freshness.
- Carrots: Peeled and chopped carrots bring sweetness and vibrant color which brighten the soup visually and taste-wise.
- Onion: Chopped onion forms the savory backbone, delivering depth and a touch of natural sweetness once cooked.
- Garlic: Minced garlic introduces a warm, inviting flavor that complements the chicken perfectly.
- Flour: This thickens the soup gently, creating that irresistible creamy texture without heaviness.
- Chicken broth: The heart of the soup’s flavor, bringing savoriness and moisture to every spoonful.
- Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend of herbs that brings a subtle Mediterranean hint, lifting the whole dish beautifully.
- Uncooked jasmine rice: Adds body and a slightly fragrant chew, making the soup beautifully hearty.
- Heavy or whipping cream: This luscious ingredient gives the soup its silky, dreamy creaminess.
- Uncooked chicken breasts: Cut into bite-sized pieces, they cook quickly and provide tender protein throughout.
- Salt & pepper: Simple seasoning essentials that pull all the flavors together perfectly.
How to Make Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Start by warming the olive oil over medium-high heat in your soup pot. Add the finely chopped celery, carrots, and onion, letting them sauté for 5 to 7 minutes. Stir now and then to ensure even cooking and to help release their natural sweetness and flavors. This creates a vibrant veggie base that will make your soup taste like it’s been slowly simmered for hours.
Step 2: Add Garlic and Flour
Next, stir in the minced garlic along with the flour. Cook this mixture for about a minute while stirring constantly. This step is crucial because the flour will thicken your soup, while the garlic infuses it with that signature warmth. Be careful not to let the garlic burn as that would introduce bitterness.
Step 3: Pour in the Broth
Slowly add the chicken broth to the pot, stirring continuously. Be sure to scrape the bottom of the pot as you stir to lift those delicious browned bits stuck to the pan—this adds so much depth of flavor. Continue to stir until the flour has fully dissolved into the broth, creating a smooth base.
Step 4: Stir in Seasoning, Rice, and Cream
Now it’s time to add the Italian seasoning, uncooked jasmine rice, and the heavy cream. Bring everything to a gentle boil by turning up the heat, then stir well. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with the lid slightly ajar, and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. Stir occasionally to make sure the rice doesn’t cling to the bottom. This step allows the flavors to meld and the rice to become beautifully tender.
Step 5: Cook the Chicken
Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the soup and continue cooking for another 7 to 10 minutes until both the chicken and rice are fully cooked. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste—don’t be shy here since soup needs good seasoning to shine. Keep in mind that the soup thickens as it cools, so feel free to lighten it up with a splash more chicken broth if you prefer a thinner consistency.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra touch of freshness and visual appeal, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley, chives, or a pinch of grated Parmesan cheese on top right before serving. These little additions add a pop of color and a burst of flavor that elevates the soup beautifully.
Side Dishes
This soup shines on its own, but pairing it with some crusty bread or warm garlic knots will make your meal feel even more special. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette also complements the richness of the soup perfectly for a balanced dinner.
Creative Ways to Present
Why not serve this soup in rustic bread bowls for a fun twist? Or ladle it over a bed of arugula and finish with a squeeze of lemon for a light, elegant presentation. You can also portion it out in pretty mason jars for a grab-and-go lunch option that’s both convenient and delicious.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup Recipe keeps wonderfully in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store it in an airtight container to maintain freshness and to prevent the soup from absorbing any fridge odors. Because the rice soaks up broth, you might need to adjust the consistency before reheating.
Freezing
You can freeze this soup, but keep in mind the texture of the rice might change slightly after thawing. For best results, freeze the soup without the rice and cook fresh rice when you reheat. Use freezer-safe containers and label them with the date; your soup will keep for up to 2 months.
Reheating
Reheat your soup gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring regularly to prevent sticking. If the soup has thickened too much, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up. Avoid microwaving directly for best texture, but if you do, stir often and heat in short intervals.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice can be substituted, but it will require a longer cooking time and more liquid. You might want to cook the brown rice separately and add it at the end to ensure the soup’s texture stays perfect.
Is it possible to make this soup dairy-free?
Yes! Replace the heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative. The flavor will be slightly different but still deliciously creamy.
Can I use leftover cooked chicken?
Definitely. If you have cooked chicken on hand, add it during the final few minutes just to warm through. This can shorten the cooking time and make the process even easier.
How thick should the soup be?
The soup should be creamy but not overly thick—think of a comforting chowder-like consistency. If it’s too thick after refrigerating, gently thin it with broth or water before reheating.
Can I prepare this soup in a slow cooker?
You can, but you’ll need to adjust the timing—sauté the vegetables and flour first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker. Add the rice and cream later to prevent overcooking, and add the chicken toward the end to keep it tender.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup Recipe is truly a kitchen treasure—simple ingredients come together to create a dish that feels both indulgent and wholesome. It’s easy to make, endlessly comforting, and adaptable to your taste. I can’t wait for you to try it and discover how warming and satisfying homemade soup can be!
