There’s nothing more satisfying than a warm bowl of Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup on a chilly day. This classic dish is rich, hearty, and packed with flavor, making it the perfect comfort food when you need a cozy meal. The combination of tender chicken, wholesome rice, and a creamy broth creates a satisfying and nutritious soup that the whole family will love.
If you’re looking for a simple, homemade recipe that brings warmth and nourishment to your table, this soup is a must-try. Whether you’re feeling under the weather, need a quick weeknight dinner, or want a meal that reheats beautifully for leftovers, this creamy chicken and rice soup is an excellent choice.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Rich & Creamy – The perfect balance of savory broth, tender chicken, and cheesy goodness.
✔ Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and one pot for easy cleanup.
✔ Nutritious & Filling – Loaded with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins.
✔ Comforting & Cozy – A warm, satisfying meal perfect for any season.
✔ Great for Meal Prep – Stays fresh for days and freezes well for future meals.
Ingredients for Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup
Before you start cooking, gather these fresh and wholesome ingredients:
Main Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Butter | 2 tbsp |
| Sweet onion (diced) | 1 large |
| Carrots (chopped) | 1 cup |
| Celery (chopped) | 1 cup |
| Garlic (minced) | 4 cloves |
| Fresh thyme leaves (or dried thyme) | 1 tbsp (or 1 tsp dried) |
| Bay leaf | 1 |
| Boneless chicken thighs or breasts | 1 lb |
| Chicken broth (or water + bouillon) | 10 cups |
| Dried long-grain rice | 1 cup |
| Parmesan cheese (grated) | ⅔ cup |
| Cornstarch | 3 tbsp |
| Fresh parsley (chopped) | 3 tbsp |
| Salt & pepper | To taste |
Step-by-Step Instructions for the Perfect Soup
1. Prepare the Base
- Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion, chopped carrots, and celery, cooking for 5-7 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic, thyme, and bay leaf, cooking for 1-2 more minutes until fragrant.
2. Cook the Chicken
- Add the boneless chicken thighs or breasts to the pot.
- Pour in the chicken broth (or water and bouillon).
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked.
- Remove the chicken, shred it with two forks, and return it to the pot.
3. Cook the Rice & Create the Creamy Base
- Stir in the dried long-grain rice, allowing it to simmer for 15-20 minutes until fully cooked.
- Add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted.
- In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry.
- Slowly add the slurry to the soup, stirring continuously until the soup thickens.
4. Finish & Serve
- Stir in the chopped parsley and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Remove the bay leaf and ladle the soup into bowls.
- Serve hot with crusty bread or a fresh salad.
Serving Suggestions: How to Enjoy Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup
✔ With Crusty Bread
Pair with garlic bread, dinner rolls, or a toasted baguette for dipping.
✔ As a Side to a Fresh Salad
Serve alongside a Caesar salad or Greek salad for a balanced meal.
✔ With Extra Cheese
Top with grated Parmesan or shredded cheddar for extra richness.
✔ As a Cozy Meal on a Cold Day
Perfect for fall and winter, this soup is the ultimate comfort food.
How to Store & Reheat Leftovers
Storing:
- Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Reheating:
- Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Freezing Option:
- Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
- Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~280 |
| Protein | 22g |
| Carbohydrates | 28g |
| Fat | 9g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sodium | 600mg |
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on ingredient brands.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes! Brown rice works well, but it will take 10-15 minutes longer to cook.
2. What if I don’t have fresh thyme?
You can substitute with ½ teaspoon of dried thyme or try rosemary for a different flavor.
3. Can I make this soup dairy-free?
Absolutely! Just skip the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
4. Can I add extra vegetables?
Yes! Try adding peas, corn, mushrooms, or spinach for more nutrients.
5. How do I prevent the rice from getting mushy?
If meal prepping, cook the rice separately and add it when reheating.
6. What’s the best type of chicken to use?
Chicken thighs are more flavorful and tender, but chicken breasts work well too.
Final Thoughts: A Must-Try Comfort Food
Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup is the ultimate comforting, nutritious, and delicious meal. Whether you’re looking for a hearty dinner, an easy meal prep option, or a cozy dish to warm you up, this recipe is a winner every time.
Give this creamy, flavorful soup a try and enjoy a bowl of pure comfort today!