“There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup on a chilly day.”
This comforting dish forms a delightful hug in a bowl, perfect for chasing away the winter blues. When I first made this soup after a long day, I couldn’t believe how quickly it came together. The creamy texture combined with tender chicken and rice made every sip a moment of bliss.
Table of Contents
Why is Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup Perfect for Any Season?
“This soup is perfect for any season because it offers comfort during colder months while being light enough for warmer days.”
Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup is a great dish to reference time and time again. It’s a beautiful blend of nourishing ingredients that create a fulfilling meal. Chicken is an excellent source of protein and can be easily swapped out for alternatives like turkey or tofu to suit your dietary preferences. Additionally, it’s simple enough to adjust the soup to include seasonal vegetables, keeping your meals fresh and exciting.
Not only does this recipe help you utilize leftover chicken, but it’s also an excellent way to sneak in those vegetables that can sometimes be overlooked. The sweetness from the carrots and the crispness of the celery add delightful texture, making this soup well-rounded. And with just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, it’s a dish you’ll turn to again and again, especially when paired with a warm Herb Bread Bowl for a wholesome meal.
Which Ingredients Do You Need for This Soup?
“You will need simple, wholesome ingredients to make this creamy delight.”
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cooked chicken breast, shredded | 2 cups |
| Long-grain white rice, uncooked | 3/4 cup |
| Carrots, diced | 1 cup |
| Celery, diced | 1 cup |
| Small onion, chopped | 1 |
| Chicken broth | 4 cups |
| Milk | 2 cups |
| Butter | 3 tablespoons |
| All-purpose flour | 2 tablespoons |
| Dried thyme | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Salt and black pepper | to taste |
Chicken is the centerpiece of this dish, providing protein and a robust flavor profile. Shredded chicken brings a nice, tender bite that is easily absorbed by the surrounding broth. You can use leftover rotisserie chicken or cook chicken breast to save time and effort. If you’re looking for a great vegetarian alternative, feel free to experiment with beans or chickpeas, which also pack a protein punch.
Each serving of this soup bursts with nutrients. The carrots contribute Vitamin A, while celery offers fiber and hydration, making this a hearty yet healthy option. The use of low-fat milk instead of heavy cream keeps calories in check while still providing that essential creaminess. Your taste buds will thank you for enjoying this delicious satisfaction!
How Do You Make Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup Step-by-Step?
“Making this soup is easy with just a few straightforward steps!”
It’s truly astonishing how quickly this creamy chicken and rice soup comes together.
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Then, add the chopped onion, diced carrots, and celery. Sauté the mixture for about 5 minutes until the vegetables soften and release their aromatic scents.
Step 2: Create the Roux
Next, sprinkle in the flour and cook for one minute, stirring constantly. This roux will thicken the broth, adding a velvety texture. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth to combine the ingredients, stirring until lumps disappear.
Step 3: Simmer and Cook
Bring the mixture to a boil and add the uncooked rice, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Reduce the heat, cover it, and simmer for about 20 minutes. You’ll want to check the rice for tenderness as it cooks. Once it’s ready, stir in the shredded chicken and milk. Allow the soup to simmer gently for an additional 10 minutes until it thickens and turns deliciously creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, then serve warm!
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
|---|---|
| Cook Time | 30 minutes |
| Total Time | 40 minutes |
| Nutritional Values | Approximately 300 calories per serving |
What Sets This Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup Apart from Others?
“This recipe stands apart due to its creamy texture, rich flavor, and straightforward preparation.”
What makes my Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup special is the perfect balance of flavor and simplicity. The addition of milk contributes a satisfying creaminess without being overly heavy, and a touch of thyme adds an aromatic note that elevates the dish. I often preference fresh herbs over dried, but here, the dried thyme complements the chicken beautifully and allows the ingredients to shine. For an authoritative take on using herbs in soups, check out this Wikipedia page on herbs for the science behind flavor.
A Roux for the Ages
This soup relies on a roux, made by cooking butter and flour together until slightly browned. This creates a rich, creamy base that thickens the soup beautifully, allowing you to forego heavy cream entirely. You can also opt to make a lighter version by using low-fat milk instead! Regardless, it brings a smooth texture that makes this soup crave-worthy.
Textures that Tempt
The delightful complement of tender-cooked rice with shredded chicken forms a duo that fills you up without weighing you down. The fresh vegetables add a crisp crunch factor that makes every bite engaging and enjoyable. Feel free to customize the texture by switching up the mix-ins from peas to corn.
What Are Some Variations and Serving Suggestions?
“You can customize this soup to your taste preferences without losing its essence.”
Diet Swap
If you’re gluten sensitive, consider swapping all-purpose flour for a gluten-free variety or even cornstarch to maintain that rich texture without worry! Additionally, using plant-based milk in place of regular milk can keep things dairy-free without sacrificing flavor.
Flavor Variation
There are endless possibilities when it comes to enhancing the flavor profile of this soup. Consider adding a hint of garlic, or a splash of lemon juice for a citrus flair. You can also boost spice levels with a pinch of cayenne or even a sprinkle of your favorite hot sauce. For pairing with vegetable sides, don’t miss the chance to try Classic Cannoli Squares as an enjoyable dessert to follow.
Serving Idea
This heavenly soup is a fantastic standalone dish but becomes even more delightful with a side of crusty bread or homemade biscuits. It’s perfect for family dinners or when you’re in need of that cozy meal while relaxed at home. Just ladle into bowls, garnish with fresh herbs or croutons, and enjoy!
| Suggested Pairings |
|---|
| Crusty Bread |
| Homemade Biscuits |
| Green Salad |
Final Thoughts
In closing, Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup is a versatile and satisfying dish that provides comfort with every bite. It’s perfect for meal prep, as it stores well in the refrigerator for a few days or can be frozen for later enjoyment. Don’t miss the opportunity to gather your loved ones for a warming experience over bowls of this delightful soup. I encourage you to try making it this week; you won’t be disappointed!
And remember, for more delicious recipes like this one, check out my Pinterest where you can find culinary inspiration for every occasion: find me on Pinterest.
FAQ
Can I substitute the chicken in this soup?
Yes, you can substitute the shredded chicken with cooked turkey or even a plant-based protein to make the soup vegetarian. Some excellent options include chickpeas or white beans.
How can I make this soup healthier?
To make the soup healthier, consider using low-fat milk or unsweetened almond milk in place of whole milk, and opt for brown rice instead of white rice for added fiber.
Can I add other vegetables to the soup?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like peas, corn, or spinach for added nutrients and flavor. Just be mindful of the cooking times so that everything is tender.
How long does this soup last in the fridge?
Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Be sure to keep it in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, you can freeze Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup! Just let it cool completely before transferring it to suitable freezer containers. It should maintain its quality for up to 2 months.
Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup
Enjoy a cozy bowl of Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup packed with flavors and nutrients. This easy, quick recipe is perfect for any day of the week, offering a delicious way to use up leftover chicken.
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 3/4 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups milk
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Then, add the chopped onion, diced carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables soften.
- Sprinkle in the flour and cook for one minute, stirring constantly. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth until lumps disappear.
- Bring to a boil and add the uncooked rice, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 20 minutes.
- Stir in the shredded chicken and milk. Allow to simmer gently for an additional 10 minutes until thickened. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, then serve warm.
Notes
This soup can be easily customized with seasonal vegetables or other proteins like turkey or tofu. For a lighter version, use low-fat milk.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Dairy-Free options available, Gluten-Free
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
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