Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup is the perfect meal to warm you up on chilly days, combining tender chicken, fluffy rice, and velvety broth into one soothing bowl. This recipe offers effortless comfort with wholesome ingredients, quick prep, and a homespun taste that feels like a loving embrace. Whether you’re recovering from a cold, feeding a family, or just craving something cozy, this soup is your go-to.
Why You’ll Love Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup
This soup hits all the right notes: creamy texture, hearty protein, and satisfying carbs, all without complicated prep. The rice adds a gentle bulk that makes it a filling meal, while the chicken delivers juicy, lean protein. It’s easy to customize with your favorite vegetables or herbs, and it reheats beautifully—ideal for meal prep or leftovers. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free if you use the right broth and rice, making it suitable for many diets.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 1 cup uncooked white rice
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery; cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add chicken broth, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
- Stir in the rice, reduce heat, and simmer uncovered for 15-20 minutes until rice is tender.
- Add shredded chicken and heavy cream, heating through for 5 minutes without boiling.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup
Serve this creamy soup hot with rustic bread or simple crackers to soak up every last drop. A squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese can brighten the flavors. It is perfect as a light main dish or paired with a salad for a fuller meal. Leftovers reheat well in both the microwave and stovetop, making it an easy lunch solution.
Check out this similar comforting recipe, “Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup,” for another creamy chicken classic: Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup.
How to Store Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup
Cool soup before transferring to airtight containers; store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 2 months. When reheating, gently warm on the stovetop adding a bit of broth if it thickens. Avoid repeated reheating to keep the chicken tender and the texture creamy.
You may also enjoy our “Creamy Chicken Broccoli Soup” for another nourishing soup choice: Creamy Chicken Broccoli Soup.
Tips to Make Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup
- Use leftover rotisserie chicken for quick prep.
- Substitute white rice with brown rice for added fiber (requires longer cooking).
- Add lemon zest or fresh dill for a fresh herbal note.
- For richer soup, swirl in a tablespoon of butter just before serving.
- Use low-fat cream or coconut milk for a lighter or dairy-free option.
Looking for more creamy soup ideas? Discover “Creamy Potato Soup” for a hearty, soothing alternative: Creamy Potato Soup.
Variations of Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup
- Add mushrooms for an earthy depth.
- Use brown rice or wild rice for a nuttier texture and increased fiber.
- Make it spicy with a pinch of cayenne or hot sauce.
- Incorporate vegetables like peas, spinach, or corn for added color and nutrition.
- For a low-carb option, substitute rice with cauliflower rice.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but increase simmering time to about 40 minutes as brown rice takes longer to cook.
Is this soup freezer-friendly?
Absolutely, divide into portions and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes, add all ingredients except cream and cook on low for 4-6 hours. Stir in cream before serving.
Is it possible to make this dairy-free?
Use coconut milk or a dairy-free cream substitute to keep it creamy without dairy.
Final Thoughts
Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup is a time-tested, comforting dish made for nourishing body and soul alike. Its simple ingredients, easy technique, and customizable nature make it a weeknight staple anyone can love.
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Print
Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup combines tender shredded chicken, rice, fresh veggies, and a rich broth for a cozy, comforting meal.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 cup uncooked white rice
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté onion, carrots, and celery until softened (5-7 minutes).
2. Add garlic and cook 1 minute.
3. Add chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to boil.
4. Stir in rice, reduce heat, simmer 15-20 minutes until tender.
5. Add shredded chicken and cream, warm 5 minutes.
6. Adjust seasoning and garnish with parsley.
Notes
Use leftover rotisserie chicken for convenience.
Brown rice is a good fiber-rich substitute but needs longer cooking.
Freeze soup in portions for up to 2 months.
Add lemon zest or fresh dill for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 70mg