Creamy White Chicken + Rice Soup

Get ready for a comforting bowl of goodness—say hello to our Creamy White Chicken + Rice Soup! Loaded with shredded chicken, fragrant herbs, and a touch of spice, it’s a flavor explosion. With the creamy richness of Parmesan + mozzarella cheese and the hearty texture of basmati rice, each spoonful is pure comfort, perfect for a nourishing weeknight meal. This soup is also versatile enough to serve at gatherings or as a cozy lunch option.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe takes just 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Comfort: The combination of creamy cheese and tender chicken creates a rich, comforting dish that everyone will love.
• Versatile Options: Easily adapt this recipe to suit your dietary needs by substituting ingredients for vegan or gluten-free options.
• Family-Friendly: Kids will enjoy the creamy texture and delicious taste, making it a hit at the dinner table.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with vegetables and lean protein, this soup is both nutritious and satisfying.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Creamy White Chicken + Rice Soup effortlessly, gather the necessary tools before you start cooking. Having everything on hand ensures a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for cooking soups as it provides enough space for all ingredients to simmer evenly.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your pot and helps incorporate flavors thoroughly.
• Measuring cups: Ensures accuracy in ingredient quantities, which is crucial for achieving the right taste and texture in your soup.

Ingredients

For the Base

• 2 Tbsps Extra virgin olive oil
• 2 cups Easy Shredded Chicken
• 1/2 red onion, chopped (You can also use white or yellow onion)
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 organic celery stalks, chopped
• 2 medium carrots, peeled + chopped
• 4 fresh thyme sprigs
• 1 bay leaf

For the Broth

• 4 cups chicken or vegetable stock, organic
• 1 cup heavy cream, organic
• 3 Tbsps white cooking apple vinegar (You can omit + sub with stock)
• 1 tsp sea salt

For Seasoning and Texture

• 2 tsps On Everything All-Purpose Blend
• 1 tsp smoked paprika (You can add another teaspoon if desired)
• 1-1 1/2 cups cooked Basmati Rice
• 1 cup freshly-grated parmesan
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, organic

How to Make Creamy White Chicken + Rice Soup

Step 1: Sauté Vegetables

• Heat the extra virgin olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
• Add the chopped onion, garlic, celery, and carrots. Sauté until softened.

Step 2: Add Chicken and Herbs

• Stir in the shredded chicken along with fresh thyme sprigs and bay leaf.
• Cook for another 2–3 minutes until heated through.

Step 3: Pour in Stock and Cream

• Gradually add in the chicken or vegetable stock while stirring well.
• Pour in the heavy cream and vinegar (if using). Mix until combined.

Step 4: Season Your Soup

• Add sea salt, On Everything All-Purpose Blend, and smoked paprika.
• Stir well to ensure all flavors meld together.

Step 5: Incorporate Rice and Cheeses

• Gently fold in the cooked Basmati rice along with grated parmesan and shredded mozzarella.
• Let simmer for an additional 5 minutes until cheese is melted.

Step 6: Serve Hot

• Remove from heat. Discard bay leaf before serving.
• Ladle into bowls and enjoy your creamy white chicken + rice soup!

How to Serve Creamy White Chicken + Rice Soup

Serving Creamy White Chicken + Rice Soup is about enhancing its comforting flavors while providing a satisfying meal. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your soup experience.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Freshly baked or toasted baguette slices complement the creamy texture of the soup beautifully.

Add Fresh Herbs

• Garnish with chopped parsley, cilantro, or chives for a burst of fresh flavor and vibrant color.

Include a Side Salad

• A light green salad with a simple vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the soup.

Top with Crispy Onions

• Sprinkle crispy fried onions on top for added crunch and savory flavor in every bite.

Serve with Cheese Toast

• Broil slices of bread topped with mozzarella or your favorite cheese until bubbly for a cheesy accompaniment.

How to Perfect Creamy White Chicken + Rice Soup

Achieving the perfect bowl of Creamy White Chicken + Rice Soup requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your soup turns out delicious every time.

• Use Quality Stock: A good quality chicken or vegetable stock enhances the overall flavor of the soup significantly.

• Adjust Seasoning: Always taste before serving and adjust salt, pepper, and spices to suit your preference.

• Opt for Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and vegetables will elevate your dish, making it taste more vibrant and flavorful.

• Control Thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, let it simmer longer or add more rice. For thinner consistency, add more broth.

• Incorporate Leftovers: Feel free to add leftover vegetables or proteins for added nutrition and variety.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy White Chicken + Rice Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Creamy White Chicken + Rice Soup can enhance your meal. Here are some perfect options that match well.

1. Garlic Bread: Soft bread infused with garlic butter provides a savory bite that complements the soup’s creaminess.

2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, parmesan cheese, and croutons tossed in Caesar dressing offer a crunchy contrast.

3. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds nutrition and color while balancing out the richness of the soup.

4. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal roasted veggies brings out natural sweetness and pairs wonderfully with the savory soup.

5. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with diced vegetables offers protein and fiber while keeping things fresh and healthy.

6. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers stuffed with rice and vegetables create a hearty side that complements the flavors of the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creamy White Chicken + Rice Soup, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them:

• Skipping the sautéing step: Failing to sauté onions and garlic first can lead to a bland soup. Always cook these ingredients until fragrant.
• Using cold stock: Adding cold stock can slow down cooking time. Warm your stock before adding it to the pot for better results.
• Not seasoning properly: Under-seasoning the soup can leave it tasting flat. Taste as you go and adjust with salt and spices as needed.
• Overcooking the rice: If you add uncooked rice directly, it may overcook and become mushy. Cook rice separately or monitor closely if adding cooked rice.
• Neglecting herbs: Fresh herbs like thyme enhance flavor but should be added at the right time. Add them early for infused flavor, but reserve some for garnish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Let the soup cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Creamy White Chicken + Rice Soup

• Freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving space for expansion.

Reheating Creamy White Chicken + Rice Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), then heat in an oven-safe dish until hot.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every minute until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Creamy White Chicken + Rice Soup:

Can I use leftover chicken for this Creamy White Chicken + Rice Soup?

Yes! Leftover rotisserie chicken works great and saves time.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative if you prefer a lighter option.

How do I make this recipe vegan?

Replace chicken with chickpeas or tofu, use vegetable stock, and swap heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream.

Can I prepare this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make it a day in advance. Just reheat on the stovetop before serving.

Final Thoughts

Creamy White Chicken + Rice Soup is not only comforting but also versatile. You can customize it by adding vegetables or spices according to your taste. This easy recipe is perfect for any weeknight dinner—give it a try!