There’s nothing more comforting than a warm bowl of creamy chicken rice soup. This recipe blends tender chicken, hearty rice, and a rich, velvety broth into one cozy dish. It’s easy to make, family-friendly, and perfect for cold days or quick weeknight dinners. Whether you’re craving comfort food or looking for a nourishing meal, this soup will hit the spot. Let’s dive into the simple steps to make it at home.
Why This Recipe Creamy Chicken Rice Soup is a Must-Try
This soup is the kind of recipe you’ll come back to again and again. It combines simple ingredients into something that feels both hearty and indulgent. Here’s why it stands out:
- Comfort in a bowl: The creamy broth, tender chicken, and soft rice create a soothing texture and flavor that feels like home.
- Family-friendly: Kids love the mild, creamy taste, and adults appreciate how satisfying it is without being heavy.
- Easy to make: With basic pantry staples and minimal prep, you can have a warm meal on the table in under an hour.
- Versatile: Works with leftover chicken, rotisserie chicken, or even frozen pieces. You can also swap the rice type to match what you have on hand.
- Meal-prep ready: It stores and reheats well, making it ideal for lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Ingredients You’ll Need (and Easy Substitutions)
Making creamy chicken rice soup doesn’t require fancy ingredients. Most items are likely already in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best. Thighs add more flavor and tenderness, while breasts keep the soup lean.
- Substitution: Use shredded rotisserie chicken for a shortcut, or leftover cooked chicken from another meal.
- Rice: White rice cooks quickly and gives the soup a creamy consistency as it releases starch.
- Substitution: Swap with wild rice or brown rice for a nuttier taste and chewier texture (keep in mind, cooking time will be longer).
- Vegetables: Classic soup veggies like onion, carrots, and celery build the base flavor. Garlic adds depth.
- Substitution: Add mushrooms, spinach, or peas for extra nutrition and variety.
- Broth: Chicken broth gives the soup its rich, savory base.
- Substitution: Vegetable broth works if you want to keep it lighter or vegetarian (using plant-based chicken alternatives).
- Cream or Milk: Heavy cream creates the signature velvety texture.
- Substitution: Half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version. Coconut milk also works for a dairy-free twist.
- Butter and Flour: Used together to make a roux that thickens the soup.
- Substitution: Use cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water) if you prefer a gluten-free thickener.
- Seasonings: Salt, black pepper, thyme, and bay leaf are classic. Fresh herbs like parsley or dill brighten the final flavor.
- Substitution: Add Italian seasoning, rosemary, or a pinch of turmeric for a unique twist.
Tools and Equipment for the Recipe
You don’t need a professional kitchen to make creamy chicken rice soup. A few reliable tools will make the cooking process smooth and stress-free:
- Large Soup Pot or Dutch Oven: A heavy-bottomed pot helps distribute heat evenly and prevents the rice from sticking or burning at the bottom.
- Cutting Board and Sharp Knife: For chopping vegetables and prepping chicken quickly and safely.
- Wooden Spoon or Heatproof Spatula: Ideal for stirring the roux (butter and flour mixture) and keeping the soup from sticking as it simmers.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: To ensure the right balance of broth, cream, and seasonings.
- Ladle: Makes it easy to serve the soup without spills.
- Whisk: Helpful for blending the roux smoothly into the broth to avoid lumps.
- Storage Containers: Airtight containers for saving leftovers in the fridge or freezer.
Optional but handy:
- Immersion Blender: If you prefer a smoother, creamier texture, you can blend part of the soup before adding the chicken and rice back in.
- Rice Cooker or Instant Pot: If you want to pre-cook the rice separately to control texture.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Creamy Chicken Rice Soup
Making this soup is simple once you follow the steps in order. Each step builds layers of flavor while keeping the process beginner-friendly.
Cook the Chicken
In your large soup pot or Dutch oven, heat a little oil or butter over medium heat. Add chicken breasts or thighs and cook until lightly browned on both sides. They don’t need to be fully cooked yet, as they’ll finish in the broth. Remove and set aside.
Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot, add a little more butter if needed. Sauté onion, carrots, celery, and garlic until soft and fragrant. This forms the aromatic base of your soup.
Make the Roux
Sprinkle flour over the vegetables and stir constantly for about a minute. This cooks out the raw flour taste and creates a base for thickening the broth.
Add Broth and Simmer
Slowly pour in chicken broth while whisking to prevent lumps. Return the chicken to the pot and add seasonings like thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Simmer until the chicken is fully cooked through and tender.
Shred the Chicken
Remove the chicken from the pot, shred it with two forks, and stir it back into the broth.
Add the Rice
Stir in uncooked rice and let it simmer until tender. For wild or brown rice, allow more cooking time and check liquid levels, adding extra broth if needed.
Stir in Cream
Once the rice is cooked, lower the heat and add heavy cream (or your chosen substitute). Stir gently to combine, making sure the soup is smooth and creamy.
Final Touches
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Sprinkle fresh parsley or dill on top for brightness.
Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the creamy chicken rice soup into bowls and serve warm with bread or crackers on the side.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Soup Every Time
Even though this recipe is simple, a few smart tricks can take your creamy chicken rice soup from good to unforgettable. Keep these tips in mind while cooking:
- Don’t rush the roux: When cooking butter and flour, give it at least a full minute. This removes the raw flour taste and ensures a smooth, creamy base.
- Add broth gradually: Pour in the broth slowly while whisking. This prevents lumps and keeps the texture silky.
- Watch the rice closely: Rice can soak up more liquid than expected. Check consistency as it cooks, and add extra broth if the soup gets too thick.
- Cook chicken gently: A slow simmer makes the chicken tender and easy to shred. Boiling too hard can make it tough and dry.
- Use warm cream: If your cream is too cold, it may curdle when added to the hot soup. Bring it to room temperature before stirring in.
- Don’t overcook the rice: The soup will continue to thicken as it sits. Stop cooking when the rice is just tender to avoid mushy texture later.
- Forgot to thaw chicken?: You can add frozen chicken directly into the broth. Just extend the cooking time until it’s fully cooked through before shredding.
- Season in layers: Taste at every stage and adjust salt and pepper gradually instead of waiting until the end.
Flavor Variations and Customizations
One of the best things about creamy chicken rice soup is how versatile it can be. You can easily adapt it to fit different tastes, dietary needs, or whatever ingredients you have on hand. Here are some ideas to switch things up:
Rice Options
- Wild Rice: Adds a nutty, earthy flavor and a chewy texture. Perfect if you want a heartier version.
- Brown Rice: More fiber and a slightly nutty taste, though it will take longer to cook.
- Jasmine or Basmati: Fragrant options that bring a subtle aroma to the soup.
Protein Swaps
- Turkey: A great way to use up Thanksgiving leftovers.
- Ham or Sausage: Adds a smoky or savory twist to the soup.
- Vegetarian Version: Skip the chicken and use chickpeas or white beans for plant-based protein.
Dairy Alternatives
- Coconut Milk: Creates a rich, creamy soup with a hint of sweetness and is dairy-free.
- Cashew Cream: Blend soaked cashews with water for a smooth, nutty alternative.
- Greek Yogurt: Stir in at the end for creaminess with extra protein.
Flavor Boosters
- Spices: Add curry powder, smoked paprika, or turmeric for a bold flavor profile.
- Herbs: Fresh rosemary, dill, or basil can brighten the soup at the end of cooking.
- Cheese: Stir in Parmesan or sharp cheddar for extra richness.
Extra Veggies
Add spinach, kale, mushrooms, or peas for more nutrition and color. Sweet corn also pairs beautifully with the creamy base.
What to Serve with Creamy Chicken Rice Soup
This soup is hearty enough to be a meal on its own, but pairing it with the right side can turn it into a complete and satisfying spread. Here are some delicious serving ideas:
Breads and Rolls
- Crusty French Bread: Perfect for dipping into the creamy broth.
- Garlic Bread: Adds a buttery, savory crunch alongside the soup.
- Soft Dinner Rolls: A lighter option that balances the richness.
Salads
- Garden Salad: Fresh greens with a light vinaigrette add brightness.
- Caesar Salad: Creamy dressing and crunchy croutons complement the soup’s texture.
- Spinach Salad: Tossed with berries, nuts, and feta for a sweet-savory balance.
Vegetable Sides
- Roasted Vegetables: Carrots, Brussels sprouts, or broccoli add depth and nutrition.
- Steamed Asparagus or Green Beans: Simple and light, so the soup remains the star.
Sandwich Pairings
- Grilled Cheese: A classic comfort-food combo.
- Turkey or Chicken Sandwich: Keeps the meal protein-packed and filling.
- Panini: Warm, melty, and crisp—perfect with creamy soup.
Light Additions
- Crackers or Breadsticks: Easy for crunch without extra effort.
- Pickles or Olives: Their briny flavor cuts through the creaminess nicely.
Storage, Reheating, and Freezing Tips
Creamy chicken rice soup keeps well, but it does need a little care when storing and reheating to maintain its flavor and texture. Here’s how to handle leftovers:
Storing in the Refrigerator
Let the soup cool to room temperature before transferring it into airtight containers. Store in the fridge for 3 to 4 days. Keep in smaller containers for quick grab-and-heat lunches or dinners.
Reheating the Soup
Warm gently on the stove over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup has thickened, add a splash of chicken broth or milk to loosen it up. Avoid boiling once cream is added—this prevents curdling and keeps the soup silky. Microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, for single servings.
Freezing the Soup
Cream-based soups can sometimes separate after freezing. To avoid this, you have two options:
- Freeze before adding cream: Prepare the soup up to the broth-and-rice stage, cool it, and freeze. Add the cream later when reheating.
- Freeze as is: If you don’t mind a slight change in texture, you can freeze the finished soup.
Use freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some room for expansion. Label with the date; soup keeps well for up to 2 months.
Thawing and Reheating Frozen Soup
Thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results. Reheat slowly on the stove, adding a little broth, milk, or cream to restore creaminess.
Nutrition Breakdown
Creamy chicken rice soup is not only comforting but also nourishing. It provides a balance of protein, carbs, and fats, making it a filling meal on its own. Below is an approximate breakdown for one serving (about 1 ½ cups):
- Calories: ~320–360
- Protein: 22–26 g
- Carbohydrates: 28–32 g
- Fat: 12–15 g
- Fiber: 2–3 g
- Sugar: 3–4 g
- Sodium: 700–900 mg (depending on broth and added salt)
Why It’s Nutritious
- Protein-Packed: Chicken provides lean protein to keep you full and support muscle health.
- Carb Source: Rice adds energy-sustaining carbohydrates and makes the soup hearty.
- Vegetable Boost: Carrots, celery, onions, and any extra add-ins give fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
- Cream for Richness: While cream adds fat and calories, it also contributes to satisfaction and flavor. You can lighten it by using milk or half-and-half.
Healthier Swaps
Use brown rice or wild rice for more fiber. Choose low-sodium broth to reduce sodium levels. Swap heavy cream for Greek yogurt or evaporated milk to cut fat while keeping it creamy. Add extra vegetables like spinach, peas, or kale for more nutrients.
Conclusion
Creamy chicken rice soup is more than just a recipe—it’s comfort in a bowl. With tender chicken, hearty rice, and a velvety broth, it’s a dish that brings warmth to any table. Simple to prepare, easy to customize, and perfect for leftovers, this soup is one you’ll turn to time and again. Try it once, and it just might become a staple in your kitchen.
FAQS
Recipe Creamy Chicken Rice Soup
Ingredients
Method
- Add the olive oil, celery, carrots, and onion to a soup pot over medium-high heat. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in the garlic and flour and cook for about a minute.
- Slowly pour in the broth and stir/scrape up the browned bits from the bottom of the pot until the flour has dissolved.
- Stir in the Italian seasoning, rice, and cream. Increase the heat to high, and once the soup comes to a gentle boil, give it a good stir, then reduce the heat so it's simmering and cover the pot with the lid slightly ajar. Simmer the soup for 10 minutes. I stir it every now and then to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
- Add in the chicken and cook for another 7-10 minutes or until the chicken and rice are both cooked. Season with salt & pepper as needed (I am generous with both). This soup will soak up the broth FAST. You may need to add more chicken broth if you prefer a less thick soup, and you'll definitely have to add broth to leftovers. Cook the rice separately if you don't plan on eating it right away (add rice to individual portions just before serving).