30 Moves to Make the Most of Your At-Home Workout

 Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup

There’s nothing more comforting than a warm bowl of Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup on a chilly day.

This rich, velvety soup combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a luscious broth infused with herbs and vegetables—perfect for cozy nights, meal prep, or soothing a cold.

In this article, we’ll share:
A foolproof step-by-step recipe (stovetop & slow cooker options)
Tips for the creamiest texture (without heavy cream!)
Easy ingredient swaps (gluten-free, dairy-free, Instant Pot)
The best toppings & sides to elevate your bowl

Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Creamy without heavy cream (Thanks to a smart roux + milk blend)
Packed with protein & veggies (Balanced and nourishing)
Meal prep hero (Tastes even better the next day)
Family-friendly (Kids and picky eaters love it!)

Ingredients You’ll Need

*(Serves 6-8)*

For the Soup:

• 2 tbsp butter or olive oil

• 1 onion, diced

• 3 carrots, sliced

• 3 celery stalks, chopped

• 4 garlic cloves, minced

• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)

• 6 cups chicken broth (low-sodium preferred)

• 1 cup whole milk (or half-and-half for extra richness)

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works!)

• 1 cup long-grain white rice (or wild rice blend)

• 1 tsp thyme

• 1 tsp poultry seasoning

• Salt & pepper to taste

For Garnish (Optional):

• Fresh parsley

• Grated Parmesan

• Cracked black pepper

• Crusty bread

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat.

2. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened.

3. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 min until fragrant.

Step 2: Make the Roux

1. Sprinkle flour over the veggies and stir for 1-2 mins (this thickens the soup).

2. Slowly pour in chicken broth, whisking to prevent lumps.

Step 3: Simmer the Soup

1. Add rice, thyme, poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper.

2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 mins (until rice is tender).

Step 4: Add Chicken & Cream

1. Stir in shredded chicken and milk. Simmer for 5 more mins (don’t boil after adding milk).

2. Taste and adjust seasoning.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!

Ladle into bowls and top with Parmesan, parsley, and a drizzle of olive oil.

Pro Tips for the Best Soup

Use rotisserie chicken for quick prep (or poach chicken breasts in broth).
Toast the rice (before adding liquid) for a nutty flavor.
Blend half the soup for an ultra-creamy texture.
Don’t overcook rice—it will soften further as leftovers.

5 Delicious Variations

1. Slow Cooker Version

• Sauté veggies, then add everything (except milk) to the slow cooker.

• Cook on Low 4-5 hrs or High 2-3 hrs. Stir in milk at the end.

2. Gluten-Free

• Swap flour for cornstarch (mix 2 tbsp with broth before adding).

3. Dairy-Free

• Use coconut milk instead of regular milk.

4. Extra Veggie-Packed

• Add spinach, peas, or mushrooms.

5. Instant Pot Hack

• Sauté veggies in the pot, then pressure cook 8 mins (quick release).

Best Toppings & Sides

For Dipping: Crusty baguette or garlic bread
Light Pairing: Kale Caesar salad
Extra Indulgence: Crispy bacon bits + extra cheese

Storage & Reheating Tips

Fridge: Keeps for 4 days (broth thickens, just add water when reheating).
Freezer: Freeze (without rice) for 3 months. Add fresh rice when serving.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice?

Yes! Adjust cooking time (40+ mins) or pre-cook it.

How do I prevent curdling?

Avoid boiling after adding milk; keep the heat low.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Use vegetable broth + chickpeas instead of chicken.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup is the ultimate comfort in a bowl, hearty, flavorful, and easy to customize. Whether you’re meal prepping or craving cozy vibes, it’s a guaranteed hit!