Why Make This Recipe

Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup is a comforting dish that warms your soul. It is perfect for chilly days or when you need something hearty and satisfying. With simple ingredients and a straightforward cooking process, this soup brings a homey feel to any meal. It is not only delicious but also a great way to use leftover chicken.

How to Make Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup

Ingredients:

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

Directions:

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
Stir in chicken broth and bring it to a boil.
Add rice and cook according to package directions until tender.
Reduce heat and stir in the cooked chicken and heavy cream.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes until heated through.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve.

How to Serve Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup

Serve Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup hot in bowls. You can add some crusty bread or a side salad to make it a complete meal. A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top adds a nice touch of color and flavor.

How to Store Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup

If you have leftover soup, let it cool to room temperature first. Then, transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to leave some space in the container as the soup will expand when frozen.

Tips to Make Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup

You can use any type of cooked chicken, such as rotisserie or leftover from another meal.
If you want a thicker soup, add more rice or use less chicken broth.
Feel free to add other vegetables, such as peas or green beans, for added nutrition and flavor.

Variation

You can make a lighter version of this soup by using low-fat milk instead of heavy cream. If you prefer a spicy kick, consider adding some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice. Just keep in mind that it will take longer to cook.

2. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can make it ahead and store it in the fridge or freezer. Just remember that the rice may absorb some of the broth as it sits, so you might need to add more broth when reheating.

3. Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, as long as the chicken broth you use is gluten-free, this soup can be made gluten-free. Always check the labels to be sure!