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 tablespoons olive oil; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded; 1 cup long-grain white rice; 1 cup heavy cream; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Simple Recipes

I absolutely love making Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup during the colder months. The soothing combination of tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a creamy broth makes each spoonful feel like a warm hug. I often find myself adapting the recipe with leftover rotisserie chicken, which not only saves time but also adds an incredible depth of flavor. Whether I’m hosting a cozy gathering or just enjoying a quiet evening at home, this soup never fails to satisfy.

Created by

Wendy Ashbourne

Last updated on 2026-01-24T09:29:34.689Z

When I first made Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup, I was surprised by how quickly it came together while still being rich and satisfying. The secret lies in the perfect balance of aromatics—onions, garlic, and thyme—that lay the foundation for the dish. I learned the importance of simmering the rice gently, allowing it to soak up the flavors and create that signature creaminess without the need for heavy dairy.

As I prepared the soup, I realized how versatile it is; you can swap out ingredients based on what's in your pantry. For instance, adding in frozen vegetables boosts the nutrition and color, making it a delightful meal any day of the week. It's a recipe that allows for creativity while still delivering comfort in every bite.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich and creamy broth that warms your soul
Tender chicken and rice create a comforting texture
Perfect for meal prep and easy to customize

      

Ingredient Insights

The base of this Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup is truly enhanced by the selection of chicken broth. Opting for homemade broth can greatly elevate the flavor profile. If you're using store-bought broth, choose a low-sodium version to control the seasoning better. This allows you to adjust the saltiness to your preference as the soup cooks, preventing it from becoming too salty and overpowering before serving.

Another vital ingredient here is the heavy cream. This not only gives the soup its signature creaminess but also helps thicken the broth, creating a luxurious texture. If you're looking for a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative. Just keep in mind that coconut milk may impart a subtle sweetness, altering the overall flavor.

Cooking Techniques

When sautéing the onions and garlic, take care to cook them until the onions just become translucent, which should take about 3-5 minutes over medium heat. If they start to brown or caramelize, lower the heat immediately to avoid any bitter flavors in your soup, as burnt aromatics can overshadow the dish's comforting essence.

For perfect rice texture, use long-grain white rice as specified in the recipe. It tends to retain its shape and not clump together during cooking. If you opt for brown rice as a healthier alternative, remember it requires a longer cooking time—about 40-45 minutes. Adjust your broth quantity as well, since brown rice absorbs more liquid.

Serving and Storage

This soup is fantastic for meal prep, as it develops even richer flavors after a day in the fridge. Consider storing the soup in airtight containers for up to three days. When reheating, do so gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent it from sticking or separating. If you find it has thickened too much, adding a splash of broth or water can help restore the desired consistency.

For an appealing presentation, serve the soup with crispy bread or croutons to add a delightful texture contrast. Top each bowl with a sprinkle of fresh parsley; not only does it enhance the soup's color, but it also adds a touch of freshness that can balance the creaminess brilliantly.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
1 cup long-grain white rice
1 cup heavy cream
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped parsley for garnish

Mix well and enjoy your comforting bowl of soup!

Instructions

Sauté Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent.

Add Chicken and Rice

Stir in the shredded chicken and rice, followed by the thyme. Mix well to combine all the flavors.

Simmer

Pour in the chicken broth and bring the soup to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked.

Make it Creamy

Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let it heat through for an additional 5 minutes.

Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve hot.

Perfect for chilly evenings!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider using homemade chicken stock or incorporating vegetables like carrots and celery.

Flavor Variations

Feel free to get creative with the herbs and spices in this recipe! While thyme brings a classic flavor, adding a pinch of rosemary or a dash of paprika can introduce a unique twist. If you want to spice it up, a little cayenne pepper can add just the right amount of warmth, making it a heartier dish for winter nights.

Vegetables can also be added for extra nutrition and flavor. Consider incorporating carrots, celery, or peas—just ensure that they are diced small and added early in the sautéing step. They should be cooked until tender, which typically takes about 5-7 minutes before adding the rice and chicken.

Leftover Ideas

If you have leftovers from this soup, they can be a delicious filling for baked casseroles. Just mix the soup with some shredded cheese and pour it over a bed of cooked pasta in a baking dish. Top with breadcrumbs and bake until golden brown for a completely new meal. This method allows you to enjoy the flavors in a fun, different context.

Alternatively, consider transforming the soup into a risotto by adding more broth and stirring continuously until the rice is creamy and perfectly cooked. This method will absorb any leftover soup, utilizing the full flavor profile without wasting a drop. The creamy base creates a sumptuous dish that’s both comforting and filling.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but brown rice will take longer to cook, so adjust the simmering time accordingly.

→ How can I make this soup healthier?

You can replace heavy cream with half-and-half or use more vegetables to increase the nutritional content.

→ Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, it freezes well! Just be aware that the rice may absorb liquid when reheating.

→ What can I serve with this soup?

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a light salad.