Creamy Chicken Rice Soup

Name: Creamy Chicken Rice Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 4 cups chicken broth; 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 1 cup uncooked white rice; 1 cup heavy cream; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Hearty Traditions

I absolutely adore making this Creamy Chicken Rice Soup, especially on chilly days when comfort food is needed. The way the creamy broth envelops tender chicken and rice creates a warm and inviting meal that the whole family loves. It’s easy to whip up with simple ingredients, and the results are always satisfying. Trust me when I say that once you savor a bowl of this soup, you’ll want to make it a regular in your kitchen rotation.

Created by

Noemi Turner

Last updated on 2026-02-01T18:49:35.909Z

Making this Creamy Chicken Rice Soup fills my kitchen with delightful aromas. I still remember the first time I tried a similar recipe; I was amazed at how easily the layers of flavor came together. The key here is to sauté the vegetables before adding the broth, which enhances their taste and contributes depth to the soup. After mixing in the rice and allowing it to simmer, the texture becomes truly irresistible.

One of my favorite tips is to use leftover rotisserie chicken, which cuts down on prep time and infuses a wonderful flavor into the soup. I also like to add fresh herbs right before serving to brighten the dish. It’s little adaptations like this that make a good recipe truly great.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Silky creamy texture with hearty chunks of chicken
Perfectly seasoned broth that’s both comforting and delicious
Simple ingredients that come together effortlessly

The Importance of Broth Quality

The foundation of any great soup is its broth, and this Creamy Chicken Rice Soup is no exception. Using a high-quality chicken broth enhances the overall flavor profile, making it richer and more comforting. If time allows, consider homemade broth from roasted chicken bones, as it can add depth to the dish. Store-bought varieties can work, but look for low-sodium options so you can control the seasoning later on.

When selecting your broth, pay attention to the ingredients list. Aim for broths that contain real chicken and natural flavors without artificial additives. If you’re using a vegan or vegetarian option, adding a bit more seasoning or umami-rich ingredients like soy sauce can help create a more complex flavor similar to traditional chicken broth.

Creaminess Perfected

The addition of heavy cream is what really takes this soup to the next level. It not only adds a luscious, velvety texture but also balances the flavors beautifully. If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half or even whole milk, but note that this may alter the creaminess. For a dairy-free alternative, try coconut cream or a cashew cream, which will add a different yet delicious flavor profile.

When incorporating the cream, allow it to heat gently without bringing the soup to a full boil again. Boiling can cause the cream to curdle, impacting the smooth texture you're aiming for. Stir constantly until everything is well blended, and watch for a uniform color that signals it’s ready to serve.

Make Ahead and Storage Tips

This soup is a fantastic make-ahead meal, perfect for busy weekdays. After cooking, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. However, if freezing, consider leaving the rice out and adding it fresh when reheating, as frozen rice can become mushy.

When ready to serve, reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. If it thickens too much after being stored, add a splash of chicken broth or water to restore its original consistency. This ensures that each bowl maintains that delightful creamy character that makes it so comforting.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients before you begin:

For the Soup

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
4 cups chicken broth
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 cup uncooked white rice
1 cup heavy cream
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to have all your ingredients ready before starting!

Instructions

Let’s get started on making this comforting soup:

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables soften. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Add Broth and Rice

Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Add the rice, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes until the rice is tender.

Incorporate Chicken and Cream

Stir in the shredded chicken and heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow it to heat through for about 5 more minutes.

Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and enjoy a warm, hearty meal!

Enjoy every spoonful of this delicious soup!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider using homemade chicken broth. Also, if you like a bit of spice, a dash of cayenne pepper can give the soup a delightful kick.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One common issue when making creamy soups is curdling, especially when adding dairy too quickly or boiling the soup after cream has been incorporated. To prevent this, always stir ingredients in slowly and heat gently. If you experience curdling despite your best efforts, an immersion blender can help smooth out the texture without losing the delicious flavors.

Another challenge is achieving the right consistency. If your soup seems too thick, try adding a little extra broth or water. Conversely, if it’s too thin, you can thicken it with a cornstarch slurry made from equal parts cornstarch and cold water. Just stir in and let it simmer until thickened.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Creamy Chicken Rice Soup, consider serving it with warm, crusty bread or buttery biscuits that can soak up every delightful drop. A side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette can also offer a refreshing counterbalance to the richness of the soup. For extra flair, add croutons or a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving.

If you’re looking to mix things up, serve the soup in bread bowls for a fun presentation at gatherings. You can also customize the soup by adding other vegetables like peas or corn during the simmering stage to give it more color and nutrition. Don't be afraid to experiment with herbs or spices like thyme or cayenne for an extra burst of flavor!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the soup a day in advance. Just reheat it on the stove and add a splash more cream if it thickens too much.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or coconut milk for a lighter or dairy-free version, though the texture will differ slightly.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add peas, corn, or spinach for additional nutrition and flavor.

→ How long does leftover soup last?

Leftover soup can be stored in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. Reheat on the stove until warmed through.