Introduction
There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup to nourish the soul, and this Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup delivers that heartwarming comfort in every spoonful. Perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a little pick-me-up, this soup is wonderfully rich, creamy, and packed with flavor. As you simmer the ingredients, your kitchen will fill with the delightful aromas of sautéed vegetables and savory chicken, making it hard to resist diving in before it’s even ready!
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium carrots, diced
- 3 celery stalks, diced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Directions and Instructions
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they turn translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Next, stir in the diced carrots, celery, dried thyme, and parsley. Let this cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften and the herbs to infuse their flavors.
- Add the chicken breasts to the pot, then pour in the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, cooking for about 15-20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Remove the chicken from the pot and, using two forks, shred it into bite-sized pieces. Set the shredded chicken aside while you continue with the soup.
- Stir in the long-grain white rice and cook for about 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed some of that delicious broth.
- Return the shredded chicken to the pot and gently stir in the heavy cream. Allow the soup to cook for another 5-10 minutes, letting it thicken to a velvety texture.
- Season your soup with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the flavors to your preference.
- Serve the soup hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley to add a pop of color and freshness.
Notes or Tips
For an even heartier version, consider adding frozen peas or spinach right before serving. If you prefer a lighter soup, you could substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream. Additionally, any leftover soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days, and it also freezes beautifully—perfect for future cozy dinners!
Cooking Techniques
Sautéing the onions and garlic first brings out their natural sweetness and depth of flavor, which forms a solid base for your soup. Shredding the chicken after it has cooked not only makes it easier to eat but allows it to absorb even more of the savory broth as it simmers with the rice. This technique transforms everyday ingredients into a stunningly comforting dish.
FAQ
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but brown rice takes longer to cook. Adjust your simmering time accordingly, adding about 10-15 minutes to ensure the rice is tender.
Is this soup freezer-friendly?
Absolutely! Just be sure to cool it completely before transferring it to airtight containers for freezing. It can last up to three months in the freezer.
Conclusion
This Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup is more than just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl! It’s easy to prepare and perfect for family dinners, cozy nights in, or when you need something to warm you up from the inside out. Get ready to savor every spoonful of this deliciously satisfying dish that not only feeds your belly but also warms your heart.