Creamy Chicken Rice Soup

Name: Creamy Chicken Rice Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 4 cups chicken broth; 2 cups cooked rice; 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken; 1 cup heavy cream; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Modern Comfort Food Favorites

I absolutely love cozying up with a warm bowl of Creamy Chicken Rice Soup, especially during chilly days. This recipe has become a favorite in our household because it's not only creamy and comforting, but it's also packed with flavor and nutrients. Using rotisserie chicken saves time in the kitchen, allowing me to whip up this delicious meal in no time. With the addition of herbs and spices, every spoonful bursts with rich taste, making it perfect for dinner or a hearty lunch.

Created by

Cassandra Reed

Last updated on 2026-02-01T16:33:36.037Z

When I first tried making Creamy Chicken Rice Soup, I knew I needed to create a dish that was both indulgent and nourishing. By using a combination of chicken broth and cream, I achieved the perfect balance of richness without overwhelming the flavors. I also discovered that incorporating vegetables like carrots and celery adds an amazing texture that elevates the soup.

One of my best tips is to use leftover rotisserie chicken; it saves a lot of time and infuses the soup with incredible flavor. Just be sure to shred it before adding it to the pot, so it mixes beautifully with the rice and broth!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich and creamy texture that warms your soul
Easy to make with minimal prep time
Perfect for using leftover chicken or meal prep

Understanding the Ingredients

The combination of vegetables in this Creamy Chicken Rice Soup contributes greatly to its depth of flavor. Onions bring sweetness, while carrots add a natural earthiness. Celery provides a slight crunch and enhances the soup's aromatic profile. For best results, make sure to dice the vegetables into uniform pieces, about a quarter-inch, so they cook evenly and meld into the broth beautifully.

Using rotisserie chicken not only saves prep time but also infuses the soup with complex flavors from the seasoning used on the chicken. Opt for a well-seasoned bird to elevate the taste of your soup without extra effort. If you have leftover roasted chicken or turkey, these make excellent substitutes, ensuring you minimize waste while adding a delicious element.

Technique Tips

When sautéing the vegetables, aim for a medium heat. You want them to soften and develop flavor without browning, which can happen if the heat is too high. Cook them until they’re translucent, about 5 minutes, and don’t forget to stir occasionally to prevent sticking. This step is crucial for building the foundation of your soup’s flavor profile.

After adding the chicken broth, allow it to come to a rolling boil before introducing the rice and chicken. This ensures the rice heats through properly while allowing the flavors to amalgamate quickly. Keep the heat medium-high to maintain that boil, and then reduce it to a gentle simmer to avoid overcooking the ingredients and creating a mushy texture.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

This creamy soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, use a pot over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. If the soup thickens too much while stored, feel free to add a splash of chicken broth or water to achieve your desired consistency before serving.

For a delightful twist, consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving to balance the richness of the cream and enhance the flavors. Alternatively, top each bowl with crispy bacon bits or toasted bread crumbs for added texture and taste contrast. Fresh herbs like dill or chives can also brighten up the dish beautifully.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this comforting soup:

Ingredients

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

Make sure to gather all your ingredients before you start cooking for a smooth prep experience!

Instructions

Let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps:

Sauté Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5 minutes until they are softened. Stir in the garlic and thyme, cooking for an additional minute.

Add Broth and Rice

Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, add the cooked rice and shredded chicken. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes.

Stir in Cream

Add the heavy cream, stirring well to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let it simmer on low for another 5 minutes to heat through.

Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your delicious bowl of Creamy Chicken Rice Soup!

Serve it immediately and enjoy the warmth and flavor!

Pro Tips

For added depth of flavor, consider using homemade chicken broth. You can also substitute brown rice for a healthier option. If you like a bit of spice, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes while cooking.

Variations for Every Palate

Feel free to customize this soup to your liking by incorporating other vegetables such as corn, peas, or even spinach. If you want a little heat, diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes can add a pleasantly spicy kick. Each addition can transform the flavor profile while keeping the essence of the soup intact.

For a healthier version, consider substituting half of the heavy cream with unsweetened almond milk or low-fat yogurt. This keeps the creaminess but reduces the calorie count. The key is to stir these lighter options in after you’ve removed the soup from direct heat to maintain a smooth texture.

Freezing for Convenience

This soup freezes well, making it a perfect candidate for meal prepping. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion. It can be stored for up to three months. Just be sure to label the containers with dates for easy tracking.

When ready to enjoy, thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. It’s best reheated gently on the stove over low heat to avoid separation of the cream. Stirring occasionally helps integrate any separated components back together, restoring that luscious texture before serving.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use uncooked chicken in this recipe?

Yes, you can add uncooked chicken pieces in the sauté step. Just ensure they are cooked through before adding the heavy cream.

→ How can I make this soup healthier?

You can substitute heavy cream with a low-fat milk or incorporate more vegetables like spinach or peas.

→ Can I freeze the leftover soup?

Yes, this soup freezes well. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container and thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.

→ What type of rice works best?

I recommend using long-grain white rice or jasmine rice for a fluffy texture.