As the chilly weather sets in and the days grow shorter, there’s nothing quite like the warmth of a homemade creamy Chicken-and-Rice Soup. With its inviting aroma wafting through your kitchen, this comforting dish feels like a hug in a bowl. I stumbled onto this recipe during a week filled with endless deadlines and takeout dinners, reminding me just how fulfilling—and easy—making soup can be.
Using just a few wholesome ingredients, including rotisserie chicken and precooked rice, this soup comes together in under an hour. You’ll be delighted to find the perfect balance of rich flavors and creamy texture, making it an instant family favorite. Whether you’re seeking a cozy meal to unwind after a long day or hosting friends for a casual dinner, this creamy Chicken-and-Rice Soup promises to bring everyone to the table. Full of vibrant vegetables and topped with parmesan cheese, it’s a nutritious dish that will keep you warm and satisfied. Ready to stir up some goodness? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why is Creamy Chicken-And-Rice Soup a Must-Try?
Comforting warmth: This creamy Chicken-and-Rice Soup envelops you in cozy goodness, making it perfect for chilly nights.
Quick & easy: With just 30 minutes of prep and cook time, this dish is a weeknight hero for busy schedules.
Flavor-packed: A delightful medley of rotisserie chicken, fresh collard greens, and rich cream ensures every spoonful is satisfying.
All-in-one meal: Packed with veggies and protein, it’s nutritious enough to serve as a complete meal.
Crowd-pleaser: Ideal for family dinners or casual gatherings, it’s hard not to love a bowl of this deliciousness!
Creamy Chicken-And-Rice Soup Ingredients
Discover the essential components to make your own creamy Chicken-and-Rice Soup!
For the Soup Base
- Unsalted butter – Adds a rich, buttery flavor that forms the foundation of the soup.
- Yellow onion – Chopped finely, it provides a sweet and aromatic base.
- Carrots – Thinly sliced, they bring sweetness and vibrant color to the mix.
- Garlic cloves – Finely chopped, these enhance the savory depth of each bite.
- Poultry seasoning – A delightful blend that elevates the flavor profile of the soup.
- Kosher salt – Essential for enhancing all the flavors—season to your liking!
- All-purpose flour – Acts as a thickening agent for that luscious, creamy texture.
- Dry white wine – Adds a subtle acidity to balance the richness of the soup.
- Lower-sodium chicken broth – The flavorful base that brings all your ingredients together.
For the Nutritional Boost
- Fresh collard greens – Packed with nutrients and a wonderful complement to the chicken.
- Shredded rotisserie chicken – Convenient and flavorful, perfect for a quick meal.
For the Creamy Finish
- Heavy whipping cream – This is what transforms the soup into a luxurious, creamy goodness.
- Precooked microwavable long-grain and wild rice – Makes preparation a breeze, adding hearty texture.
- Grated Parmesan cheese – A sprinkle on top adds a savory finish with every serving.
Each delicious component is designed to create the comforting, creamy Chicken-and-Rice Soup that is sure to bring warmth and joy to your table!
How to Make Creamy Chicken-And-Rice Soup
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Melt butter: Start by melting 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat until it’s bubbling, which takes about 1-2 minutes.
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Add veggies: Toss in 2 cups of chopped yellow onion, ¾ cup of thinly sliced carrots, and 1 tablespoon of finely chopped garlic. Stir and cook for about 5 minutes, until the vegetables soften and become fragrant.
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Incorporate flour: Sprinkle in ⅓ cup of all-purpose flour and cook, stirring constantly for 1 minute, to create a flavorful roux that thickens the soup.
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Pour in wine: Add ¼ cup of dry white wine and stir continuously for about 30 seconds, until the alcohol has mostly burned off, enhancing the depth of flavor.
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Mix broth: Carefully pour in 8 cups of lower-sodium chicken broth, cover, and bring it to a hearty boil over high heat. This should take around 5 minutes.
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Stir in greens and chicken: Uncover the pot and stir in 4 cups of packed chopped fresh collard greens, 3 cups of shredded rotisserie chicken, 1 cup of heavy whipping cream, 2 packages of microwavable long-grain and wild rice, and 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Cook on high for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the collard greens are just tender.
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Season to taste: Taste your creamy Chicken-and-Rice Soup and season with additional kosher salt as needed, ensuring every spoonful is bursting with flavor!
Optional: Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a bright finish.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Creamy Chicken-And-Rice Soup
Fridge: Store your creamy Chicken-and-Rice Soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Allow it to cool before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: You can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving space for expansion, and label for easy identification.
Reheating: Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if needed to restore creaminess.
Serving Tip: Stir well before serving to redistribute the ingredients and flavors; it’ll feel like a warm hug all over again!
Make Ahead Options
These flavorful, cozy bowls of creamy Chicken-and-Rice Soup are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop the vegetables and combine them with the flour and seasonings up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, shredded rotisserie chicken can be stored for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to finish the soup, simply sauté the prepped veggies, add the broth, and stir in the cooked collard greens, rice, cream, and cheese. This way, you’ll create a piping hot bowl of soup that’s just as delicious with minimal effort—perfect for busy weeknights!
What to Serve with Creamy Chicken-And-Rice Soup?
As you savor each comforting bowl of soup, consider these delightful pairings to create a warm, inviting meal experience.
- Warm Bread Rolls: Perfectly soft and pillowy, they’re ideal for mopping up every bit of delicious soup.
- Garlic Bread Sticks: The crunch of garlic butter complements the richness of the soup, adding a delightful texture.
- Simple Garden Salad: Fresh greens and a light vinaigrette bring a refreshing contrast to the creamy soup’s richness.
- Steamed Broccoli: Its slight bitterness and crispness add a nutritious and vibrant element alongside each comforting spoonful.
- Savory Cornbread: The sweet, crumbly texture of cornbread pairs beautifully, enhancing the flavors in every bowl.
Round off the meal with a treat like Apple Crisp for dessert! The warmth of spiced apples will complement the soup and leave you feeling cozy inside.
Creamy Chicken-And-Rice Soup Variations
Feel free to adjust this comforting soup to suit your taste and dietary needs, inviting exploration and creativity!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with canned coconut milk for a rich, creamy texture without dairy. This adds a subtle sweetness that complements the savory flavors beautifully.
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Vegetable Boost: Add 1 cup of diced potatoes or sweet potatoes during the vegetable cooking step. They will absorb flavors and add heartiness to every bowl.
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Herb-Infused: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or dill for a burst of freshness. A little goes a long way in elevating the overall flavor profile.
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Spicy Kick: Add 1-2 teaspoons of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the mix for those who enjoy a little heat in their comfort food.
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Whole Grain: Swap out the long-grain rice for quinoa or farro for a nutty flavor and extra protein. These grains also provide a delightful texture to the soup.
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Lemon Zing: Stir in a tablespoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice just before serving. It brightens the dish and adds a refreshing zing that perfectly balances the creaminess.
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Meat Alternatives: For a lighter option, replace rotisserie chicken with cooked chickpeas or lentils, making this soup vegetarian while maintaining its comforting character.
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Different Greens: If collard greens aren’t available, feel free to use kale or spinach, both providing great flavor and nutrients while keeping that comforting essence.
Let your imagination run wild with these variations, ensuring that every spoonful of your creamy Chicken-and-Rice Soup is a delightful experience!
Expert Tips for Creamy Chicken-And-Rice Soup
- Prep Ingredients Ahead: Chop vegetables and shred chicken in advance. This makes assembly quick and easy when you’re ready to cook.
- Don’t Skimp on Seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust kosher salt according to your preference to enhance the flavors of your creamy Chicken-and-Rice Soup.
- Roux Consistency: Stir flour in for only 1 minute to create a roux; overcooking can lead to a gritty texture in your soup.
- Substitute Wisely: If collard greens aren’t available, try spinach or kale as alternatives without compromising nutrition or flavor.
- Creamy Texture Tip: For an ultra-creamy soup, blend a portion of it before adding the rice, incorporating the flavors seamlessly.
Creamy Chicken-And-Rice Soup Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to select fresh collard greens for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing collard greens, look for vibrant, deep green leaves without any dark spots or wilting. The stems should feel firm when pinched, and the leaves should be tender, as this indicates freshness. Avoid any greens that appear yellowing or slimy, as they may not provide the best flavor.
How long can I store my leftover creamy Chicken-and-Rice Soup in the fridge?
You can enjoy your creamy Chicken-and-Rice Soup stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To keep it fresh, allow the soup to cool completely before sealing it to prevent excess moisture buildup.
Can I freeze creamy Chicken-and-Rice Soup?
Absolutely! You can freeze your scrumptious soup for up to 3 months. Pour the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers, filling them up to about three-quarters full to allow for expansion. Be sure to label each container with the date before placing it in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy again, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it gently on the stovetop.
My creamy Chicken-and-Rice Soup seems too thick; how can I fix that?
Very! If you find your soup is thicker than you’d like, don’t worry! Simply add a little more chicken broth or a splash of heavy cream when reheating. Stir it in gradually until you reach your desired consistency. This will help restore the luscious creaminess while enhancing the flavor.
Can I make this soup ahead of time, and how does that affect the flavor?
Yes, making this creamy Chicken-and-Rice Soup ahead of time is a great way to enhance its flavors! In fact, letting it sit for a day allows the ingredients to meld beautifully. Just be aware that the soup may thicken as it sits, so be prepared to add a bit of liquid while reheating!
Is this recipe suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! For gluten-free adaptations, you can use a gluten-free flour blend to thicken the soup. If you’re cooking for someone with a dairy allergy, substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or almond milk and skip the parmesan cheese for a deliciously creamy result. Always double-check the labels on your pre-cooked rice and chicken broth for any hidden allergens!
Creamy Chicken-And-Rice Soup for Cozy Nights at Home
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Melt butter in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat until bubbling, about 1-2 minutes.
- Add chopped yellow onion, thinly sliced carrots, and finely chopped garlic. Cook for about 5 minutes until softened.
- Sprinkle in all-purpose flour and cook while stirring for 1 minute to create a roux.
- Add dry white wine and stir for about 30 seconds until most of the alcohol is cooked off.
- Pour in lower-sodium chicken broth, cover, and bring to a boil over high heat, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in collard greens, shredded rotisserie chicken, heavy whipping cream, microwavable rice, and Parmesan cheese. Cook on high for 5 minutes.
- Season with kosher salt to taste.