Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
Introduction to Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup
This creamy chicken and rice soup is a delightful dish that warms you from the inside out. Perfect for chilly evenings or when you’re feeling under the weather, this comforting recipe combines tender chicken with fluffy rice in a rich and creamy broth. Easy to prepare and absolutely satisfying, it’s a dish that everyone in the family will love.
A Personal Story Behind My Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup Journey
Growing up, my grandmother used to make the most delicious chicken and rice soup. Every time we visited her, I would eagerly wait for that familiar aroma to fill the kitchen. It always felt like a warm hug on a cold day, and to this day, I cherish those memories. This recipe is inspired by her, bringing a piece of my childhood back to life while creating new memories with my own family.
What Makes This Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup Recipe Special?
What sets this creamy chicken and rice soup apart is its rich blend of flavors and comforting texture. The combination of fresh vegetables, tender chicken, and creamy broth creates a delicious harmony that is both nourishing and satisfying. It’s quick to make, requires minimal effort, and the end result is a bowl of happiness that you can enjoy any day of the week.
The Full Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup Recipe
Ingredients
- 1/2 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 stick celery, finely chopped
- 1 medium carrot, peeled and finely chopped
- 1/4 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 3/4 cup uncooked white jasmine rice
- 1 cup heavy/whipping cream
- 1 pound uncooked chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces/strips
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a soup pot over medium-high heat, add olive oil, celery, carrots, and onion. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables become tender. Tip: Make sure not to let them brown too much; you want them to be soft and flavorful.
- Stir in the minced garlic and flour, cooking for about a minute. This step helps create the base of your creamy soup.
- Slowly pour in the chicken broth, stirring and scraping up any browned bits from the bottom until the flour dissolves completely. Tip: This adds extra flavor to your soup!
- Add the Italian seasoning, rice, and cream. Increase heat to high. Once the soup gently boils, stir well, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover the pot with the lid slightly ajar and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent rice from sticking. Tip: If you like a little more flavor, consider adding a bay leaf at this stage.
- Add the chicken and cook for another 7-10 minutes or until the chicken and rice are cooked through. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste. Tip: Ensure the chicken is fully cooked by cutting a piece in half; it should be white and no longer pink.
- Note: The soup thickens quickly; if you prefer a thinner consistency, add more broth. If you’re not serving immediately, consider cooking the rice separately and adding it to individual portions before serving.
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup
This soup can be served with a slice of warm, crusty bread or a fresh side salad for a complete meal. For added flavor, consider garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can add different vegetables such as peas or spinach, or even swap out the rice for quinoa for a healthier twist.
Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup
Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using leftover chicken can save time and add extra flavor to your soup.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes! Let the soup cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
What if I want a vegetarian version?
You can substitute the chicken with chickpeas or other beans and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious vegetarian option.
Recipe Stats
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Calories per Serving: 350
- Servings: 4
Creamy Chicken And Rice Soup
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 0.5 tablespoon olive oil
- 0.5 stick celery, finely chopped
- 1 medium carrot, peeled and finely chopped
- 0.25 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 0.25 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 0.75 cup uncooked white jasmine rice
- 1 cup heavy/whipping cream
- 1 pound uncooked chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces/strips
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a soup pot over medium-high heat, add olive oil, celery, carrots, and onion. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables become tender. Tip: Make sure not to let them brown too much; you want them to be soft and flavorful.
- Stir in the minced garlic and flour, cooking for about a minute. This step helps create the base of your creamy soup.
- Slowly pour in the chicken broth, stirring and scraping up any browned bits from the bottom until the flour dissolves completely. Tip: This adds extra flavor to your soup!
- Add the Italian seasoning, rice, and cream. Increase heat to high. Once the soup gently boils, stir well, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover the pot with the lid slightly ajar and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent rice from sticking. Tip: If you like a little more flavor, consider adding a bay leaf at this stage.
- Add the chicken and cook for another 7-10 minutes or until the chicken and rice are cooked through. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste. Tip: Ensure the chicken is fully cooked by cutting a piece in half; it should be white and no longer pink.
- Note: The soup thickens quickly; if you prefer a thinner consistency, add more broth. If you’re not serving immediately, consider cooking the rice separately and adding it to individual portions before serving.