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 long-grain white rice; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley, for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Indulge in a warm bowl of Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup that’s perfect for cozy evenings.

Created by

Amber Walsh

Last updated on 2025-12-11T12:49:35.494Z

This Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup is a family favorite that combines tender chicken, hearty rice, and a creamy broth that's sure to warm your soul on chilly days.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich and creamy texture that comforts the soul
Hearty ingredients that make it a complete meal
Easy to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners

      

A Comforting Classic

There's something inherently comforting about a warm bowl of soup, especially when it’s creamy chicken and rice. This classic dish combines tender chicken, wholesome rice, and a rich, velvety broth that warms not just your body but your soul. Perfect for chilly nights or when you're feeling under the weather, this soup is a staple in many households, bringing warmth and comfort with every spoonful.

The beauty of this soup lies in its simplicity. With straightforward ingredients and a method that’s easy to follow, even novice cooks can master this dish. It’s an inviting recipe that can be customized with your favorite vegetables or spices, making it a versatile addition to your weekly meal rotation.

Perfect for Meal Prep

Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prepping. You can make a large batch at the beginning of the week and enjoy it throughout. Store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to four days, or freeze portions for later. Just reheat and enjoy a comforting meal in minutes on busy days.

By preparing this soup in advance, you’ll save time and ensure you have a healthy meal at your fingertips. Plus, the flavors deepen and improve after a day in the fridge, making it even more delightful when reheated. Just add a bit of extra broth when warming to restore its creamy texture.

Customizable and Versatile

One of the great things about this creamy chicken and rice soup is its versatility. Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, such as peas, corn, or even spinach, to enhance its nutritional value and flavor profile. You can also substitute the chicken for turkey or use cooked rotisserie chicken for an even quicker option.

For those who prefer a lighter version, consider using half-and-half instead of heavy cream or incorporating a splash of lemon juice for a refreshing twist. You can also experiment with different herbs and spices to find the perfect flavor combination that suits your palate.

Ingredients

For the Soup

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 cup long-grain white rice
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 medium onion, diced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

Sauté the Vegetables

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

Add Garlic and Rice

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

Pour in Chicken Broth

Add the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender.

Stir in Chicken and Cream

Mix in the shredded chicken and heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat through for another 5 minutes.

Serve and Garnish

Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup experience, consider pairing it with crusty bread or a fresh garden salad. A slice of warm, buttered baguette is perfect for dunking and adds a delightful crunch to each bite. Alternatively, a crisp salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the soup, creating a well-rounded meal.

For a gourmet touch, top each bowl of soup with grated Parmesan cheese or croutons for added texture and flavor. These simple additions can take your dish from comforting to extraordinary, impressing family and friends alike.

Storage Tips

When storing your Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup, it’s best to keep the rice separate if possible. Rice can absorb too much liquid over time, making it mushy. Instead, store the soup and rice separately in airtight containers. This will help maintain the texture and quality of both components when reheating.

If you do have leftovers with rice already mixed in, be sure to add a bit more broth when reheating to restore its original creamy consistency. This way, you can enjoy the same comforting flavors as when it was first made.

Nutritional Benefits

Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup is not just delicious; it’s also packed with nutritional benefits. Chicken is a great source of lean protein, essential for muscle repair and overall health. The addition of vegetables like carrots, onions, and celery provides vitamins and minerals that contribute to a balanced diet.

Moreover, this soup is a comforting option when you're feeling under the weather, as warm broth can soothe sore throats and provide hydration. Its hearty ingredients make it a complete meal, ensuring you feel satisfied and nourished with every bite.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use leftover turkey instead of chicken?

Yes, leftover turkey works perfectly and adds a great flavor!

→ Is this soup freezer-friendly?

Yes, you can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Just reheat it on the stove when ready to eat.

→ Can I make this soup dairy-free?

Absolutely! Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative.

→ What can I serve with this soup?

This soup pairs well with crusty bread or a fresh garden salad.