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 dish is suitable for cozy dinners or family gatherings, making it a versatile choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of herbs and spices creates a rich and satisfying taste in every bowl.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust the ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
• Kid-Friendly: Creamy and delicious, kids will love this soup as much as adults do!
• Comforting Warmth: Perfect for chilly days, this soup warms you from the inside out.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, gather these essential tools before starting.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: A spacious pot allows even cooking and easy stirring without spills.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for mixing ingredients without scratching your cookware.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements ensure balanced flavors in your soup.

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Ingredients

For the Base

• 2 Tbsps Extra virgin olive oil
• 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

For Flavoring

• 4 fresh thyme sprigs
• 1 bay leaf
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable stock, organic

For Creaminess

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

For Seasoning

• 2 tsps On Everything All-Purpose Blend
• 1 tsp smoked paprika (You can add another teaspoon if desired)

For Serving

• 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 the Vegetables

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

Step 2: Add Broth and Herbs

• Pour in the chicken or vegetable stock.
• Add thyme sprigs and bay leaf. Bring to a boil.

Step 3: Incorporate Chicken and Seasonings

• Once boiling, reduce heat to simmer.
• Mix in shredded chicken along with sea salt, all-purpose blend, and smoked paprika.

Step 4: Stir in Cream and Vinegar

• Gradually add heavy cream while stirring continuously.
• If using vinegar, add it now. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Step 5: Combine Rice and Cheese

• Gently fold in cooked basmati rice.
• Mix in grated parmesan and shredded mozzarella until melted.

Step 6: Serve Hot

• Remove bay leaf before serving.
• Ladle soup into bowls and enjoy warm!

This Creamy White Chicken + Rice Soup is sure to become a favorite! Whether you’re looking for something quick and nourishing or just want to indulge in some creamy goodness—this recipe has you covered.

How to Serve Creamy White Chicken + Rice Soup

Creamy White Chicken + Rice Soup is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many delightful ways. Whether you’re serving it for lunch or dinner, here are some suggestions to elevate your meal.

With Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top before serving for a burst of color and freshness.
• Thyme Sprigs: Add a few sprigs of fresh thyme for an aromatic touch that complements the soup’s flavors.

Accompanied by Bread

• Crusty Bread: Serve with a loaf of crusty bread for dipping. The texture contrasts beautifully with the creamy soup.
• Garlic Bread: Toast some garlic bread on the side for an extra flavor kick that pairs well with the soup.

Topped with Cheese

• More Parmesan: Grate additional Parmesan cheese over the soup just before serving to enhance its cheesy goodness.
• Cheddar Cheese: For a different flavor profile, top with shredded cheddar cheese, which melts perfectly into the warm soup.

Served in Bowls

• Individual Bowls: Present each portion in individual bowls for a more elegant dining experience.
• Bread Bowls: For a fun twist, serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls, making it an interactive meal.

How to Perfect Creamy White Chicken + Rice Soup

Achieving the perfect Creamy White Chicken + Rice Soup involves attention to detail and quality ingredients. 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 flavor significantly. Opt for organic if possible.
• Adjust Creaminess: To modify the creaminess level, add more or less heavy cream based on your preference.
• Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh vegetables and herbs for the best flavor and nutrition in your soup.
• Rice Texture: Cook Basmati rice separately to maintain its texture; this prevents it from becoming mushy in the soup.
• Season Gradually: Taste your soup as you go and adjust seasoning gradually to avoid over-salting or overpowering flavors.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the soup to sit for a few minutes after cooking lets the flavors meld together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy White Chicken + Rice Soup

Pairing sides with Creamy White Chicken + Rice Soup can enhance your meal experience. Here are some fantastic options that complement this comforting dish.

1. Garden Salad: A light garden salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and tomatoes adds freshness and crunch.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables bring earthy flavors that balance the creaminess of the soup.
3. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers filled with quinoa and veggies provide a hearty side that’s filling yet healthy.
4. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread offers a delightful contrast to savory soup; try it warm with butter spread on top.
5. Pasta Salad: A cold pasta salad tossed with olive oil, herbs, and cherry tomatoes complements the warm soup perfectly.
6. Cheesy Garlic Biscuits: Fluffy biscuits topped with garlic butter pair wonderfully with hot soup, making every bite comforting.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Creamy White Chicken + Rice Soup turns out perfectly, avoid these common mistakes.

• Overcooking the chicken: This can make your chicken dry and tough. Use cooked or shredded chicken to keep it tender and moist.
• Skipping the aromatics: Neglecting garlic and onions can lead to bland soup. Sauté them well to enhance the flavor base of your soup.
• Not measuring ingredients: Too much or too little of an ingredient can ruin the balance. Always measure for consistent results.
• Using low-quality stock: A poor stock can impact the entire dish’s flavor. Choose high-quality organic chicken or vegetable stock for the best taste.
• Forgetting to season: Lack of seasoning can leave your soup flat. Taste as you go, and adjust salt and spices accordingly.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Will last for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Creamy White Chicken + Rice Soup

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Creamy White Chicken + Rice Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat until warm.
• Microwave: Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour soup into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making this delicious soup, you’re in the right place!

How do I make Creamy White Chicken + Rice Soup healthier?

You can use low-fat cream or substitute with plant-based options like coconut milk for a lighter version while still keeping it creamy.

Can I customize Creamy White Chicken + Rice Soup?

Absolutely! Add vegetables like spinach or kale for extra nutrition, or swap out rice for quinoa for a different texture.

What type of cheese works best in this recipe?

While Parmesan and mozzarella are used here, you could also try Gouda or Cheddar for a different flavor profile.

How long does Creamy White Chicken + Rice Soup last?

When refrigerated, it stays fresh for about 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze it for up to 2-3 months.

Final Thoughts

Creamy White Chicken + Rice Soup is not just a comforting meal; it’s also versatile and easy to customize with your favorite ingredients. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or add your twist, this soup is sure to please everyone at the table. Don’t hesitate—give it a try today!