Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup Recipe

Chicken and Rice Soup is a simple yet flavorful dish made with chicken, rice, vegetables, and broth. It’s a classic comfort food that can be customized to suit individual tastes. The combination of chicken and rice offers both protein and carbohydrates, making it a filling and well-rounded meal. The soup is often flavored with herbs like thyme and rosemary, creating a savory and aromatic broth.

Preparing Chicken and Rice Soup takes about 30 minutes if using cooked chicken, or up to 45 minutes if starting with raw chicken. This quick cooking time makes it an ideal option for busy weeknights. Once everything is combined in the pot, the soup simmers until the flavors meld and the ingredients are fully cooked.

Many people find Chicken and Rice Soup to be a go-to recipe during the colder months. The ease of preparation and the comforting nature of the soup make it a favorite in many households. Often, it’s made to provide both nutrition and warmth, especially on chilly days. Adding a touch of fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon elevates the flavor and adds a burst of freshness to each bowl.

Why You’ll Love Chicken and Rice Soup

• Comforting and Hearty: Chicken and Rice Soup is perfect for cozying up on cold days. The warm broth, tender chicken, and soft rice create a heartwarming meal that feels like a hug in a bowl. It’s filling yet light enough to enjoy anytime.
• Simple to Make: This recipe is easy to prepare with minimal ingredients. You only need a few simple steps to cook it, making it a great option for busy weeknights or when you’re looking for something quick and tasty. It’s truly a no-fuss dish.
• Nutrient-Rich: Packed with lean protein from chicken and wholesome rice, this soup offers a balance of vitamins and minerals. It’s a nourishing dish that’s not only delicious but also provides essential nutrients, making it a healthy choice for all ages.

Ingredient Notes for Chicken and Rice Soup

• Olive Oil or Butter: Both olive oil and butter add richness to the soup, enhancing its flavor. Olive oil offers a lighter option, while butter gives a creamier taste.
• Onion: Onions are essential for the base flavor. They provide a savory depth that complements the other vegetables and seasonings.
• Garlic: Garlic brings a wonderful aroma and a mild, earthy flavor to the soup. It pairs perfectly with the onions for a well-rounded taste.
• Carrots: Carrots add sweetness and color to the soup. They are a great source of vitamins and fiber, making your soup both tasty and nutritious.
• Celery Stalks: Celery offers a crisp texture and a fresh, slightly bitter taste that balances the sweetness of the carrots and the richness of the chicken broth.
• Dried Thyme: Dried thyme has an earthy, slightly minty flavor that works well in soups. It’s perfect for adding a savory touch without overwhelming the dish.
• Dried Rosemary: Rosemary adds a pine-like, aromatic flavor to the soup. Use sparingly as it has a strong taste, but it complements the chicken and rice beautifully.
• Black Pepper: Black pepper is a simple yet powerful seasoning that adds heat and enhances the flavor profile of the soup. It works well with the other spices.
• Salt: Salt is crucial for bringing out the natural flavors of the ingredients. Add it in small amounts, tasting as you go to avoid over-seasoning.
• Chicken Broth: Chicken broth forms the base of the soup. It adds a rich, savory flavor and helps bind the ingredients together. You can use homemade or store-bought broth.
• Cooked or Raw Chicken: You can use cooked chicken, such as leftover rotisserie chicken, or raw chicken. If using raw chicken, it will cook in the soup and add extra flavor.
• White Rice: White rice absorbs the flavors of the soup and adds heartiness. It’s a staple ingredient in the dish, helping to create a filling, satisfying meal.
• Frozen Peas: Frozen peas bring a burst of color and a mild sweetness to the soup. They are a quick and convenient addition that requires little preparation.
• Fresh Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a refreshing herbal note and a pop of green color. It’s best added at the end of cooking to preserve its flavor and texture.
• Lemon Wedges: Lemon wedges offer a fresh, tangy contrast to the richness of the soup. Squeeze them in just before serving for a zesty finish.

Helpful Tips and Add Your Touch to Chicken and Rice Soup

Chicken and rice soup is a comfort food loved by many. To make the most of this dish, start by choosing fresh, high-quality ingredients. Fresh chicken, tender rice, and rich broth form the base of this delicious soup. Fresh ingredients make all the difference in flavor.

While making your chicken and rice soup, don’t forget to season it well. Use herbs like thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves to add layers of flavor. You can also experiment with garlic and onions to enhance the taste. Season gradually and taste as you go for perfect results.

For a unique twist, consider adding vegetables like carrots, celery, or spinach. These vegetables add texture and nutrition to the soup, making it even more satisfying. Plus, you can customize it to fit your preferences or what you have on hand.

Chicken and Rice Soup Variation

If you want to switch things up or cater to different tastes, there are many ways to vary the chicken and rice soup recipe.

• Add vegetables: For more color and nutrition, try adding other vegetables like peas, corn, or spinach.
• Spice it up: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some red pepper flakes. You can also stir in some curry powder for a twist on flavor.
• Creamy version: To make the soup creamier, add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream just before serving.
• Use different rice: While white rice is commonly used, try brown rice, wild rice, or even quinoa for a different texture and flavor.
• Chicken variation: You can also swap out chicken for turkey or even use rotisserie chicken to save time.

How to Serve Chicken and Rice Soup

Chicken and Rice Soup is versatile in how it can be served. Here are a few ideas:

• With bread: A warm, crusty bread on the side is a perfect pairing. Consider serving the soup with a slice of toasted baguette or a buttered dinner roll.
• As a main dish: This soup is hearty enough to stand alone as a main dish. For added nutrition, you can add a side salad with light dressing.
• Toppings: You can top your soup with a variety of ingredients. Try adding shredded cheese, croutons, or fresh herbs like cilantro or thyme to enhance the flavor.
• Pair with a beverage: A light, chilled white wine or herbal tea pairs wonderfully with this soup.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers, chicken and rice soup stores well for future meals.

• Refrigeration: Allow the soup to cool to room temperature. Store it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove or in the microwave.
• Freezing: Chicken and Rice Soup freezes well for up to 2-3 months. Store it in freezer-safe containers, making sure to leave some space at the top to allow for expansion. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and then heat it on the stove.
• Pro tip: If you’re freezing the soup, consider storing the rice separately. Rice tends to absorb too much liquid over time and may become mushy when frozen with the soup.

FAQs About Chicken and Rice Soup

Is Chicken and Rice Soup healthy?
Yes, chicken and rice soup is a healthy choice, as it is packed with protein from the chicken and fiber from the rice and vegetables. It also provides essential nutrients and is often low in fat when made with lean chicken.

How long can Chicken and Rice Soup be stored?
Chicken and rice soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. Be sure to let it cool before refrigerating, and store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh.

Can I freeze Chicken and Rice Soup?
Yes, you can freeze chicken and rice soup for up to 3 months. However, the rice may become softer when reheated, so it’s best to freeze the soup without the rice and add fresh rice when serving.

What can I add to Chicken and Rice Soup for more flavor?
To enhance the flavor of chicken and rice soup, try adding herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley. You can also add garlic, onions, or a squeeze of lemon for extra depth of taste.

Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup Recipe

Chicken and Rice Soup is a simple yet flavorful dish madewith chicken, rice, vegetables, and broth. It’s a classic comfort food that canbe customized to suit individual tastes. The combination of chicken and riceoffers both protein and carbohydrates, making it a filling and well-roundedmeal. The soup is often flavored with herbs like thyme and rosemary, creating asavory and aromatic broth.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 45 minutes mins

Course: Soup

Cuisine: American

Calories: 250

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
• 1 medium onion chopped
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 2 medium carrots peeled and chopped
• 2 celery stalks chopped
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt adjust to taste
• 6 cups chicken broth preferably low-sodium
• 1 cup cooked or raw chicken diced or shredded
• 3/4 cup long-grain white rice or any rice of your choice
• 1 cup frozen peas optional
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped (optional, for garnish)
• Lemon wedges optional, for serving

Equipment

• Large Pot or Dutch Oven
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Wooden Spoon or Ladle
• Measuring Cups and Spoons
• Soup Ladle
• Strainer

Method

 

1. Sauté the vegetables: Heat olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add garlic and seasonings: Stir in the minced garlic, dried thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Sauté for another minute until the garlic becomes fragrant.
3. Pour in the broth: Add the chicken broth to the pot and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, lower the heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
4. Add chicken and rice: Stir in the chicken (either cooked or raw) and rice. Let the soup simmer for another 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and cooked through.
5. Optional: Add peas: About 5 minutes before the soup is done, toss in the frozen peas (if using). They’ll add a pop of color and sweetness to the soup.
6. Taste and adjust: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt or pepper if needed. If the soup is too thick, feel free to add a little more chicken broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
7. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a wedge of lemon if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes

I cooked this soup with love and care, ensuring every ingredient adds richness to the dish. The rice absorbs all the flavors from the chicken and broth, making each spoonful a delightful experience. You can make this soup your own by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spices for a personal twist.