There’s something undeniably soothing about a warm bowl of creamy chicken and rice soup. It’s the kind of dish that wraps you in comfort from the very first spoonful, offering the perfect balance of richness, warmth, and hearty flavor. This recipe takes classic chicken and rice soup to the next level with a velvety broth, tender chicken, fresh veggies, and just the right amount of seasonings to keep each bite satisfying.
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Ingredients
Chicken breast, cooked and shredded
Cooked white rice
Chicken broth or stock
Heavy cream or half-and-half
Onions, finely chopped
Celery, chopped
Carrots, diced
Fresh spinach or peas (optional)
Garlic, minced
Butter
Olive oil
Salt
Black pepper
Paprika
Thyme
Shredded cheese (optional but recommended for extra creaminess)
Instructions
- Heat a large pot over medium heat and add butter with a splash of olive oil.
- Add chopped onions, celery, and carrots. Cook until they soften.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add shredded chicken and cooked rice to the pot. Mix gently.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring everything to a simmer.
- Add heavy cream to create a rich, creamy base. Adjust the amount depending on your desired texture.
- Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Stir in spinach or peas if using and allow them to soften in the soup.
- Optional: Add a handful of shredded cheese for a thicker, cheesier finish.
- Let the soup simmer for a few more minutes until everything is heated through and the flavors blend beautifully.
- Serve warm with fresh herbs on top.
Tips for Best Results
Use freshly cooked chicken for the best texture. Rotisserie chicken also works well.
If the soup becomes too thick, simply add more broth.
For extra richness, replace some of the broth with milk or cream.
Leftovers thicken naturally, so add splash of broth when reheating.
Long grain or jasmine rice hold their texture best in creamy soups.
Variations
Creamy lemon chicken soup: Add lemon zest and juice for brightness.
Spicy version: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
Mushroom lovers: Add sautéed mushrooms before adding the broth.
Low-carb: Replace rice with cauliflower rice.
How to Serve
Serve in deep bowls with warm crusty bread or homemade biscuits.
Top with shredded cheese, fresh herbs, or a drizzle of cream.
Pair with a light salad for a complete meal.
Storage
Refrigerator: Keeps well for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Freezer: Freeze without the cream added; stir in cream only after reheating to keep texture smooth.
Why This Recipe Works
This soup is creamy without being overly heavy.
The rice adds heartiness while the chicken provides protein.
The broth blends perfectly with cream to create a luscious, smooth texture.
Easy ingredients and fast preparation make it ideal for weeknights.
It’s customizable to fit personal preferences, diets, and seasonal ingredients.
Conclusion
Creamy Chicken & Rice Soup is a comfort food favorite that’s simple to prepare and always satisfying. Whether you’re feeding your family, warming up on a cold day, or looking for a cozy meal prep option, this soup delivers every time. Its rich texture, wholesome ingredients, and customizable flavors make it a recipe worth saving—and sharing.