If you’re craving something cozy, comforting, and packed with flavor, you’re going to fall head over heels for this Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup. Imagine tender, seasoned chicken thighs swimming in a luscious broth enriched with fresh herbs, butter, and half and half, all perfectly complemented by tender vegetables and fluffy rice. Each spoonful feels like a warm hug that soothes the soul and satisfies the appetite, making it a perfect go-to for chilly evenings or anytime you need a bowl of pure comfort. This Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup is not just a meal; it’s an experience you’ll want to make again and again.

Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create this unforgettable soup, you’ll use a handful of simple but impactful ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in the taste, texture, and color, coming together to build a bowl that’s hearty, creamy, and bursting with flavor.

Chicken thighs (1 1/2 lb., boneless, skinless): Tender and juicy, these cut into bite-sized pieces provide rich flavor and satisfying protein.
Kosher salt (1 tsp.): Enhances every ingredient’s natural flavor, bringing out the best in the chicken and vegetables.
Italian seasoning (1 tsp.): Adds an aromatic blend of herbs for a classic, rustic flavor profile.
Mustard powder (1/4 tsp.): Gives a subtle tang that brightens the soup without overpowering it.
Paprika (1/4 tsp.): Adds mild smokiness and lovely color to the dish.
Chili flakes (1/4 tsp.): Just enough heat to wake up your taste buds and add depth.
Unsalted butter (3 Tbsp.): Used to sauté the vegetables and add a luscious creaminess.
Yellow onion (1 medium, diced): Provides a sweet, savory foundation to the soup.
Carrots (3 large, peeled and diced): Bring natural sweetness and vibrant orange color.
Celery (3 stalks, diced): Adds a subtle earthiness and crunch when cooked.
Garlic (4 cloves, minced): Infuses the broth with warm, aromatic notes.
Fresh thyme (1 Tbsp., chopped): Brings an herbal brightness that lifts the entire dish.
Fresh rosemary (1 Tbsp., chopped): Adds a piney, fragrant dimension that pairs beautifully with chicken.
All purpose flour (1/4 cup): Helps thicken the soup and coats the chicken and veggies to create a lovely creamy texture.
Chicken broth (6 cups): The savory liquid base that carries all the flavors and keeps the soup hearty.
Half and half (1 cup): Provides that signature creamy richness without being too heavy.
Soy sauce (1 Tbsp.): Adds umami depth and balances the creaminess with a hint of saltiness.
Hot sauce (1 Tbsp.): Gives a gentle kick to keep the palate engaged and the flavors lively.
Long grain white rice (1 cup, uncooked): Cooks right in the soup, making it hearty and filling with perfectly tender grains.
Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning and rounding out the flavors.
Garnishes (Parmesan cheese, black pepper, fresh parsley): Fresh finishes that add texture, flavor, and visual appeal.

How to Make Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Start by placing your diced chicken thighs into a mixing bowl. Sprinkle kosher salt, Italian seasoning, mustard powder, paprika, and chili flakes over the chicken. Stir everything together gently so that each piece is well coated in those wonderful spices. This step builds the flavorful foundation that will shine through in every bite.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat a large Dutch oven or heavy soup pot on medium heat and melt the butter until it’s shimmering. Add diced onion, carrots, and celery to the pot with a pinch of kosher salt. Sauté these veggies for about 5 to 7 minutes until they’re softened and the onion starts to turn translucent. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for just 30 seconds, releasing that delicious aroma.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken with Herbs

Now, add the seasoned chicken pieces to the pot. Cook them until they are no longer pink in the center, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking. Once they’re cooked through, sprinkle in the fresh thyme and rosemary. These herbs infuse the soup with a fragrant, earthy flavor that feels like a warm embrace.

Step 4: Add Flour for Creaminess

Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the chicken and vegetables, stirring well to coat everything evenly. This step is key because the flour will thicken the soup, binding all the ingredients together into a satisfyingly creamy consistency as it cooks.

Step 5: Build the Broth and Add Rice

Slowly pour in the chicken broth, followed by the half and half, soy sauce, and hot sauce, stirring all the while to combine. Then, add the uncooked long grain white rice to the pot. Increase the heat slightly to bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce it to low so the soup simmers. Cook for about 15 to 20 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom. The rice will absorb the broth and release starch, naturally thickening the soup to that perfectly creamy texture.

Step 6: Final Seasoning and Serve

Taste your soup and adjust with additional salt, pepper, or hot sauce if you want a little more kick. Ladle the steaming soup into bowls and don’t forget the garnishes: freshly shaved Parmesan cheese, a crack of black pepper, and a sprinkle of fresh parsley brighten the flavors and add beautiful colors. Your Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup is now ready to warm your heart and satisfy your hunger.

How to Serve Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup

Garnishes

A well-chosen garnish turns a simple bowl of soup into something special. For this Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup, Parmesan cheese provides a salty, nutty crunch, fresh parsley adds a lovely pop of color and freshness, and a dusting of black pepper adds a mild heat that rounds out all the flavors.

Side Dishes

This soup is hearty enough to be a meal on its own, but pairing it with warm, crusty bread or a crisp green salad can elevate your dining experience. Try a classic baguette or buttery dinner rolls that help scoop up every last bit of creamy goodness.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to impress guests or just treat yourself? Serve the Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup in rustic bread bowls for an eye-catching presentation, or drizzle a little extra hot sauce on top for visual contrast and a flavorful punch. Garnishing with toasted pine nuts or a sprinkle of smoked paprika can add texture and a subtle twist to the familiar flavors.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup tastes even better the next day once the flavors have had time to meld. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Remember the rice absorbs a lot of liquid, so the soup might thicken overnight.

Freezing

You can freeze this soup, but because the rice thickens it and can become mushy, it’s best to freeze only small portions. Use freezer-safe containers and leave some space at the top for expansion. It will keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

When reheating your Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup, do so gently over low to medium heat while adding a splash of broth or water as needed to loosen the texture. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and to revive that luscious creamy consistency you love.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Absolutely! Chicken breasts will work just fine, but keep in mind that thighs stay juicier and tend to add more flavor, so your soup might be a touch leaner with breasts.

Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?

You can adapt the recipe by using vegetable broth and swapping the chicken for mushrooms or hearty vegetables like cauliflower. The creaminess will remain just as satisfying.

Why do I need to stir the soup frequently while cooking the rice?

Since the rice cooks directly in the soup, stirring often helps prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot and burning. It also ensures the rice cooks evenly throughout.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Brown rice takes longer to cook and absorbs more liquid, so you would need to adjust cooking times and probably add more broth. It can work, but white rice provides that perfect texture faster.

How can I make the soup spicier?

Increase the hot sauce amount, add extra chili flakes, or try a dash of cayenne pepper to suit your heat preference. Just add these gradually and taste as you go!

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup enough! It’s one of those recipes that feels like a warm, cozy hug on a chilly day but is straightforward enough to whip up any night of the week. Once you’ve tasted that perfect blend of tender chicken, creamy broth, and comforting rice, you’ll understand why it quickly becomes a beloved favorite. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and dive into a bowl of pure comfort—you won’t regret it.