Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Indulge in a comforting bowl of Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup, perfect for chilly evenings or when you're feeling under the weather.
This Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup is a family favorite, combining tender chicken, hearty rice, and a velvety broth that warms your soul.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Rich and creamy texture that soothes and satisfies
- Packed with protein and wholesome ingredients
- Perfect for meal prep and leftovers
The Comfort of Chicken Soup
There's something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of chicken soup. It's a dish that transcends cultures and generations, often associated with home and healing. The combination of tender chicken, hearty rice, and a rich, creamy broth creates a symphony of flavors that can soothe the spirit on the coldest days or when you're feeling under the weather.
This Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup captures that essence perfectly. With each spoonful, you’ll be reminded of cozy evenings spent with family, gathering around the table to share not just a meal, but moments of love and connection. It's a classic that never goes out of style and continues to warm hearts and bellies alike.
Nutritional Benefits
Not only is this soup delicious, but it also packs a nutritional punch. The primary ingredient, chicken, is rich in protein, essential for muscle repair and overall health. Coupled with the fiber from carrots and celery, this soup provides a balanced meal that can keep you feeling full and satisfied.
Moreover, the addition of heavy cream gives it a luxurious texture while also providing calcium and vitamins. This combination of ingredients makes Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup a great choice for those looking to nourish their bodies while enjoying a comforting dish.
Perfect for Meal Prep
One of the best aspects of this Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup is its versatility for meal prep. It stores beautifully in the fridge and can easily be reheated for lunch or dinner throughout the week. This makes it an ideal option for busy schedules, allowing you to enjoy a homemade meal without the hassle of cooking from scratch every day.
Simply make a big batch, portion it into containers, and you have a hearty meal ready at your fingertips. Whether you're feeding a family or just yourself, this soup can save you time and ensure you have a healthy option available whenever hunger strikes.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Gather all your ingredients before you start cooking for a smooth process.
Instructions
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
Add Garlic and Seasonings
Stir in the minced garlic and dried thyme, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
Combine Ingredients
Add the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Stir in the cooked chicken and rice. Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
Make it Creamy
Stir in the heavy cream, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow to heat through for another 5 minutes.
Serve and Enjoy
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your creamy chicken and rice soup hot!
This soup is best served warm and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Storage Tips
To keep your Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it in portions. Just make sure to leave some space in the container, as the soup will expand when frozen.
When you're ready to enjoy the soup, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth to restore its creamy consistency if needed.
Variations to Try
Feel free to customize this soup to suit your taste preferences. Add in some frozen peas or corn for extra sweetness and color. For a bit of heat, toss in some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños. You can also swap the heavy cream for coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative that adds a delightful flavor twist.
If you're looking to make it more filling, consider adding some spinach or kale for a boost of nutrients. The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility, allowing you to create a personalized version that your whole family will love.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use leftover turkey instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Leftover turkey works great in this recipe.
→ Is there a way to make this soup healthier?
You can use low-fat cream or substitute with almond milk for a lighter version.
→ How can I make this soup gluten-free?
Ensure you are using gluten-free chicken broth and rice, which are naturally gluten-free.
→ Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, you can freeze it, but the texture may change slightly when reheating.
Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup
Indulge in a comforting bowl of Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup, perfect for chilly evenings or when you're feeling under the weather.
Created by: Summer Blake
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
Stir in the minced garlic and dried thyme, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
Add the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Stir in the cooked chicken and rice. Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
Stir in the heavy cream, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow to heat through for another 5 minutes.
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your creamy chicken and rice soup hot!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 12g