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 white rice; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 4 cups chicken broth; 2 cups whole milk; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Cozy Comfort Recipes

I absolutely love making Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup on a chilly evening when comfort food is a must. This recipe has become a staple in my kitchen because it's both hearty and soothing. The combination of tender chicken, savory spices, and creamy broth creates a delicious and satisfying meal. Plus, it’s so simple to prepare that even on the busiest nights, I can whip it up in no time. One bite of this warm soup, and you'll be wrapped in a cozy blanket of flavors!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-20T11:50:28.726Z

When I first created this Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup, I aimed for something that was both delicious and comforting. I used leftover chicken and a mix of fresh vegetables to enhance the overall flavor. The real secret is cooking the rice directly in the soup; it absorbs all the wonderful flavors while keeping a delightful texture.

As someone who loves rich and creamy dishes, I opted for whole milk and a bit of cream to give the soup that luxuriousness. It worked like a charm! Each bowl feels like a warm hug and is perfect for sharing with loved ones on a cozy day.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Hearty and comforting, perfect for chilly days
Creamy texture that’s rich and satisfying
Easy to make with simple, wholesome ingredients

      

The Importance of Chicken Quality

When making Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup, the quality of your chicken plays a pivotal role in the overall flavor and texture of the dish. Using freshly cooked, high-quality chicken will ensure a meaty richness that enhances the soup. I recommend using leftover rotisserie chicken for a quick and flavorful option. Alternatively, poach chicken breasts in the broth before starting the soup for an incredibly tender result that retains its juiciness throughout cooking.

If you're in need of a healthier version, consider using skinless chicken thighs. They contain more fat compared to breasts, which adds depth to the soup while ensuring the meat stays moist. Just be sure to trim any excess fat to keep the soup from becoming greasy.

Getting the Right Texture

Achieving the perfect creaminess and thickness in your soup requires a careful balance of ingredients. The combination of whole milk and heavy cream lends a rich, silky texture that coats the rice and chicken beautifully. If you're looking to lighten the dish, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with Greek yogurt, which still retains a luscious consistency but with lower fat content.

Keep in mind that the type of rice you choose will also affect the soup's viscosity. I prefer using medium-grain white rice, as it absorbs flavors well and retains a bit of bite. If you opt for brown rice or wild rice, you may need to adjust the simmering time to about 30-40 minutes.

Storage and Serving Tips

This soup is perfect for meal prep! You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To prevent the rice from becoming mushy, consider adding it fresh when you reheat the soup rather than storing it together. This method helps maintain the desired texture and freshness of the ingredients.

For serving, I love garnishing my soup with fresh parsley, which not only adds a pop of color but also brightens the flavors. Additionally, try pairing the soup with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. For a little heat, don’t hesitate to sprinkle some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to elevate the warmth and flavor profile.

Ingredients

For the Soup

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 cup white rice
1 medium onion, diced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
4 cups chicken broth
2 cups whole milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion, carrots, and celery, cooking until they are soft, about 5-7 minutes.

Add Chicken and Rice

Stir in the shredded chicken, rice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2 minutes to combine the flavors.

Pour in the Broth

Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer for about 20 minutes until the rice is tender.

Add Creamy Ingredients

Once the rice is cooked, stir in the whole milk and heavy cream. Allow to heat through, but do not boil. Adjust seasoning if necessary.

Serve Hot

Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and enjoy your comforting meal!

Pro Tips

For an extra depth of flavor, try adding a pinch of thyme or a squeeze of lemon juice before serving. If you prefer a thicker soup, you can let it simmer a bit longer to reduce the liquid.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One common issue is the soup becoming too thick after it sits for a while. If that happens, simply stir in a bit more broth or milk as you reheat it to bring it back to your desired consistency. Always monitor the heat and avoid boiling after adding the dairy, as it can cause separation.

Another potential problem is undercooked rice, which can result in a chewy texture. Make sure to taste the rice after simmering for 20 minutes and decide whether to add a bit more broth and simmer for a few extra minutes if it’s not tender yet.

Flavor Variations to Try

To add a twist to your Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup, consider incorporating seasonal vegetables like peas, corn, or spinach. These additions can boost nutrition and bring a fresh element to the soup. Just toss them in during the last few minutes of cooking to keep their vibrant colors and crunch.

For a hint of elegance, try adding a splash of white wine after sautéing the vegetables. Allow it to reduce slightly before adding the broth; this will deepen the flavor profile and add complexity to your comforting soup.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe can easily be scaled up for gatherings or meal prep. To double the recipe, simply increase each ingredient proportionately, making sure to use a larger pot to accommodate the extra volume. Just keep an eye on the cooking times, as the larger mixture may need a few more minutes to simmer thoroughly.

If you're cooking for fewer people, feel free to halve the ingredients. Leftover soup can be frozen for up to three months, but remember to store it without the rice. This way, when you reheat, you can add freshly cooked rice for the best texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Absolutely! Just keep in mind that brown rice takes longer to cook, so you may need to adjust the cooking time.

→ Is there a way to make this recipe healthier?

You can substitute low-fat milk or yogurt for the cream and use more vegetables to cut down on calories.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, this soup freezes well. Just store it in an airtight container, leaving some space as it will expand when frozen.

→ What can I serve with this soup?

This soup pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad, crusty bread, or a simple sandwich for a complete meal.