why make this recipe
Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup is a comforting dish that warms both the body and soul. It’s perfect for chilly days or when you’re feeling under the weather. This soup is simple to make, uses common ingredients, and is a great way to use leftover chicken. Plus, it’s creamy, rich, and delicious, making it a favorite for family meals.
how to make Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup rice (white or brown)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Directions:
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until they are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer.
- Add in the rice and cooked chicken. Simmer until the rice is tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper.
- Cook for an additional 5 minutes, then serve hot. Garnish with chopped parsley.
how to serve Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup
Serve this soup hot in bowls. It goes well with crusty bread or a simple salad on the side. You can sprinkle extra parsley on top for a fresh touch.
how to store Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It should stay good for 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage; just make sure to leave some space in the container as the soup may expand when frozen.
tips to make Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup
- For a richer flavor, use homemade chicken broth.
- Feel free to adjust the vegetables based on what you have at home. Peas or corn make great additions.
- To make it even creamier, you can add more heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream when serving.
variation
You can add different spices or herbs like thyme or rosemary to enhance the flavor. If you want a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes.
FAQs
1. Can I use uncooked rice instead of cooked?
Yes, you can use uncooked rice, but you should adjust the cooking time. It will take longer to become tender.
2. Is there a way to make this recipe healthier?
You can use leaner chicken, low-fat milk instead of heavy cream, and add more vegetables to boost the nutrient content.
3. Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a great way to save time and add flavor. Just shred the chicken and follow the recipe as usual.
Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded Leftover chicken works well.
- 1 cup rice (white or brown)
- 4 cups chicken broth Homemade broth for richer flavor.
- 1 cup heavy cream Can add more for creaminess.
Vegetables
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Seasoning and Garnish
- to taste Salt and pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil For sautéing.
- for garnish Chopped parsley Adds freshness.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Cooking
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer.
- Add in the rice and cooked chicken. Simmer until the rice is tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper.
- Cook for an additional 5 minutes, then serve hot. Garnish with chopped parsley.
