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 recipe is not only delicious but also adaptable for various occasions, making it ideal for cozy family dinners or quick lunches.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: This soup comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Rich and creamy flavor: The combination of Parmesan and mozzarella creates a delightful creaminess that elevates this dish.
• Versatile ingredients: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or use leftover chicken to make it even easier.
• Kid-friendly: With its mild flavors and inviting texture, this soup is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
• Comforting and satisfying: A hearty bowl of this soup will warm you up from the inside out, especially on chilly days.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making our Creamy White Chicken + Rice Soup, gather your kitchen tools. Having everything ready will streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking the soup evenly and providing enough space for all ingredients.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your pot, ensuring that all flavors meld beautifully.
• Measuring cups: Helps maintain accurate ingredient ratios for consistent results every time.
• Knife and cutting board: Necessary for chopping vegetables quickly and efficiently.

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
• 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

• In a large pot over medium heat, add the extra virgin olive oil.
• Once hot, add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
• Stir in the minced garlic and cook until fragrant.

Step 2: Add Remaining Ingredients

• Add celery and carrots to the pot. Cook for about 5 minutes until they begin to soften.
• Toss in thyme sprigs and bay leaf; stir well.

Step 3: Combine Stock and Seasonings

• Pour in chicken or vegetable stock along with heavy cream.
• Add white cooking apple vinegar (or additional stock), sea salt, all-purpose blend, and smoked paprika.

Step 4: Bring to a Simmer

• Increase heat slightly until mixture comes to a simmer.
• Reduce heat back to medium-low; let simmer for about 10 minutes.

Step 5: Stir in Rice and Cheese

• Fold in the cooked basmati rice along with freshly-grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella cheese.
• Stir until cheese has melted into the soup.

Step 6: Serve

• Remove bay leaf before serving.
• Ladle into bowls and enjoy your comforting Creamy White Chicken + Rice Soup!

How to Serve Creamy White Chicken + Rice Soup

Creamy White Chicken + Rice Soup is a versatile dish that can be paired with various sides or garnishes to enhance its flavor and presentation. Here are some serving suggestions that will elevate your soup experience.

With Fresh Herbs

• Chopped parsley – A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness.
• Thyme leaves – Use extra thyme to complement the flavors in the soup.

With Crunchy Toppings

• Croutons – Homemade or store-bought croutons provide a delightful crunch.
• Toasted nuts – Almonds or walnuts add texture and a nutty flavor contrast.

With Side Salads

• Caesar salad – A classic Caesar salad pairs well with the creamy soup for a refreshing bite.
• Garden salad – A simple garden salad adds freshness and balances the richness of the soup.

With Bread Options

• Garlic bread – Serve warm, buttery garlic bread for dipping into the soup.
• Dinner rolls – Soft dinner rolls make for perfect companions to soak up every drop of soup.

How to Perfect Creamy White Chicken + Rice Soup

To ensure your Creamy White Chicken + Rice Soup turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips:

• Use quality stock – A flavorful chicken or vegetable stock enhances the overall taste.
• Cook rice separately – This prevents the rice from becoming mushy and allows for better texture control.
• Adjust seasoning – Taste as you go and adjust salt and spices to suit your preference.
• Incorporate vegetables – Feel free to add more veggies like spinach or peas for added nutrition and color.
• Blend for creaminess – For an ultra-creamy texture, blend a portion of the soup before adding back in the chicken and rice.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy White Chicken + Rice Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Creamy White Chicken + Rice Soup can create a balanced meal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread – Crispy on the outside and fluffy inside, perfect for dipping in the soup.
2. Mixed Green Salad – Light and refreshing, topped with a simple vinaigrette to complement the richness of the soup.
3. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal veggies roasted until tender add both flavor and nutrients.
4. Cheesy Biscuits – Fluffy biscuits with cheese are perfect for soaking up soup, adding heartiness to your meal.
5. Stuffed Peppers – Colorful peppers stuffed with quinoa or rice can be served alongside for extra nutrition.
6. Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and brightness that contrasts nicely with creamy soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Creamy White Chicken + Rice Soup is easy, but there are some common mistakes to watch out for.

• Ignoring ingredient quality: Using low-quality stock or cream can compromise the soup’s flavor. Always choose organic and fresh ingredients for the best taste.
• Overcooking the chicken: If you overcook the chicken, it can become dry. Cook it just until it’s done, then shred it for a moist texture.
• Skipping the seasoning: Under-seasoning can lead to bland soup. Be sure to use salt and spices generously to enhance flavors.
• Not adding enough liquid: If the soup is too thick, it won’t be as enjoyable. Adjust with more stock or cream if needed to achieve your desired consistency.
• Neglecting garnishes: Skipping garnishes like fresh herbs or additional cheese can take away from the presentation and flavor. Add these for an appealing finish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Use an airtight container to keep the soup fresh.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Creamy White Chicken + Rice Soup

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• The soup can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Creamy White Chicken + Rice Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and place soup in a covered oven-safe dish for about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?

Yes! Leftover rotisserie or grilled chicken works great for this soup, saving you time on preparation.

How can I make this soup healthier?

You can use lower-fat cream or substitute half of it with unsweetened almond milk for a lighter version without sacrificing creaminess.

Can I make Creamy White Chicken + Rice Soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! This soup tastes even better when made a day ahead as flavors meld together. Just store it properly and reheat when ready.

What can I substitute for Basmati rice?

You can use other types of rice like jasmine rice or brown rice if you prefer a different flavor or texture.

Final Thoughts

Creamy White Chicken + Rice Soup is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding vegetables like spinach or peas. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner or lunch any day of the week. Give this recipe a try and enjoy its comforting goodness!