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: 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 1 cup white rice; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Optional: chopped parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Cozy Collection

I absolutely love making this creamy chicken rice soup, especially on chilly days. The combination of tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a rich, creamy broth creates a comforting dish that warms you from the inside out. This recipe is not just simple to prepare, but it also allows for variations depending on what I have on hand. Whether it’s using leftover chicken or adding extra veggies, this soup is always satisfying and delicious.

Created by

Elodie March

Last updated on 2026-02-02T01:53:35.908Z

When I first experimented with this creamy chicken rice soup, I intended to create a cozy dinner option that would please the whole family. It turned out to be a hit! The key is to use a quality broth and not skimp on the cream; this makes all the difference in flavor. I often add a pinch of garlic powder for an extra kick!

What I love about this recipe is its versatility. Sometimes, I toss in frozen peas or carrots right before serving to add color and nutrition. Additionally, using leftover roast chicken saves time and infuses the soup with extra flavor. It's a great way to use what you have while keeping it comforting and delicious.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy texture that's both hearty and soothing
Makes excellent use of leftover chicken
Comfort food that the whole family will enjoy

Choosing the Right Chicken

When making creamy chicken rice soup, the type of chicken you use can significantly impact the overall flavor and texture. I prefer using roasted or grilled chicken because it adds a smoky depth to the soup. If you have rotisserie chicken on hand, it’s perfect for this recipe—just shred it directly into the pot. However, for those using raw chicken, consider simmering boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the broth before shredding them to maximize flavor absorption.

In case you’re looking to modify this recipe to be more nutritious, turkey can be a great substitute for chicken. It retains the flavors well and presents a slightly different texture that is still pleasing. Just be sure to cook the turkey thoroughly, as the cooking time may vary, taking around 25-30 minutes depending on the size of your turkey pieces.

Secrets to a Creamy Broth

The heavy cream in the recipe is what gives this soup its luxurious, creamy texture. However, to lighten it up without sacrificing creaminess, you can replace half of the heavy cream with milk or a combination of half-and-half and plain Greek yogurt. Just be cautious to heat the mixture gently to prevent curdling. Gradually whisk it in during the final cooking stage for best results.

To further enhance the richness of the broth, consider adding a spoonful of cream cheese or a tablespoon of butter towards the end of cooking. This allows the ingredients to meld together beautifully, providing an extra velvety texture that feels indulgent without feeling heavy.

Enhancing Flavor with Vegetables

Adding vegetables is a fantastic way to boost nutrition and flavor in your creamy chicken rice soup. I enjoy tossing in diced carrots and celery early on, as they soften in the broth and complement the chicken perfectly. You can also experiment with other vegetables like peas or corn for a pop of color and sweetness or even kale for added health benefits.

If you want to incorporate more depth, consider sautéing mushrooms along with the onion and garlic. They add an umami punch that's particularly satisfying. Just remember to sauté them until they're golden and have released their moisture before adding the other ingredients, ensuring they integrate well into the soup.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients before starting for a smoother cooking process.

Ingredients

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 cup white rice
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: chopped parsley for garnish

Make sure to adjust the seasoning to your taste!

Instructions

Follow these steps carefully to make the perfect soup.

Sauté the Onions and Garlic

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Combine Ingredients

Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Add the rice and cook for about 15 minutes until tender. Stir in the shredded chicken and heavy cream, cooking for an additional 5 minutes.

Season and Serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and let it sit for a couple of minutes. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.

Enjoy your comforting bowl of creamy chicken rice soup!

Pro Tips

For a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream. Don't forget to adjust the cooking time if you're adding more vegetables!

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This creamy chicken rice soup is perfect for meal prep and can be made ahead of time. Cooked and cooled soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat it gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth or cream to maintain its creamy consistency as the rice will absorb some liquid.

If you're looking to freeze this soup, consider omitting the heavy cream until you're ready to serve. The freezing process can alter the texture of dairy. You can freeze the soup for up to three months and thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your creamy chicken rice soup, consider serving it with warm crusty bread or a side salad for a balanced meal. A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top just before serving adds a delightful saltiness that contrasts well with the creamy broth.

For a bit of texture and freshness, I love adding crunchy croutons or homemade garlic breadsticks on the side. This not only offers a sturdy scoop for the soup but also enhances the entire dining experience, making it feel more hearty and complete.

Common Troubleshooting

If you find your soup is thicker than desired after refrigerating, you can easily adjust the texture by adding a bit of chicken broth or water when reheating. Stir gently until you reach your desired consistency, ensuring that it remains creamy.

Should the soup taste bland, don't hesitate to boost the flavor with additional seasonings like dried thyme, rosemary, or a squeeze of lemon juice. These small adjustments can brighten up the dish and enhance the overall flavor profile without overwhelming its comforting essence.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time as brown rice takes longer to cook.

→ What can I add for extra flavor?

Consider adding herbs such as thyme or rosemary, or use homemade stock for richer flavor.

→ Is this soup freezer-friendly?

Absolutely! Just store it in an airtight container and it will last for up to 3 months in the freezer.

→ What can I serve with this soup?

A slice of crusty bread or a simple side salad pairs wonderfully with this soup.