Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup is a comforting and hearty dish that is perfect for chilly days or when you need a warm, nourishing meal. This soup combines tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and rich flavors, all brought together with a creamy base. It’s easy to prepare and makes a wonderful family meal. Follow these steps to create a delicious and satisfying soup that will warm you from the inside out.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 large sweet onion, peeled and diced
- 1 cup chopped carrots
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves or 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 pound of chicken thighs or breasts, deboned
- 10 cups chicken broth (or water + 10 tsp chicken bouillon)
- 1 cup dried long-grain rice
- 2/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- 3 tablespoons chopped parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Prepare the Base:
- Melt the Butter: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook the vegetables until they are soft and tender, which should take around 5-7 minutes.
- Add Garlic and Herbs: Stir in the minced garlic, fresh thyme leaves (or dried thyme), and bay leaf. Continue cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until the aroma is released.
Cook the Chicken:
- Add Chicken and Broth: Add the boneless chicken thighs or breasts to the pot. Pour in the chicken broth (or water and chicken bouillon). Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
- Shred the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it using two forks. Place the shredded chicken back into the pot.
Prepare the Rice and Creamy Base:
- Cook the Rice: Stir in the dried long-grain rice. Continue to simmer until the rice is cooked, about 15-20 minutes.
- Add Parmesan and Thicken: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined.
- Thicken the Soup: In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with a few tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry. Slowly add the slurry to the soup, stirring continuously until the soup thickens.
Finish and Serve:
- Add Fresh Herbs and Season: Stir in the chopped parsley. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve Hot: Ladle the creamy chicken and rice soup into bowls and serve hot. Enjoy with crusty bread or a fresh green salad.
Conclusion
Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup is a delicious and heartwarming dish that is perfect for any occasion. The combination of tender chicken, wholesome vegetables, and creamy rice creates a rich and satisfying meal that everyone will love. This soup is easy to make and packed with flavor, making it a wonderful addition to your recipe collection. Enjoy this comforting soup with your family and friends and savor the delightful taste of homemade goodness!