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 not only delicious but also versatile enough for various occasions like cozy family dinners or quick lunches.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, this soup is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of creamy cheeses and aromatic herbs creates a warm and inviting taste.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap in different vegetables or grains based on what you have on hand.
• Kid-Friendly: This creamy soup is sure to please even the pickiest eaters in your family.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein from chicken and nutrients from veggies, this soup is both satisfying and nutritious.

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect Creamy White Chicken + Rice Soup, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for simmering the soup evenly without splattering.
• Wooden spoon: Great for stirring ingredients while preventing scratching on your pot’s surface.
• Measuring cups: Ensures accuracy in ingredient quantities for consistent results.

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 the Broth

• 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

Start by heating the extra virgin olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped red onion and sauté until translucent. Then, stir in minced garlic, celery, and carrots. Cook until vegetables are tender.

Step 2: Add Herbs and Stock

Next, add fresh thyme sprigs and bay leaf to the pot. Pour in the chicken or vegetable stock. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil before reducing heat to let it simmer for about 10 minutes.

Step 3: Stir in Creaminess

After simmering, stir in heavy cream and white cooking apple vinegar. Season with sea salt, On Everything All-Purpose Blend, and smoked paprika. Allow it to cook for another 5 minutes.

Step 4: Combine Rice and Cheese

Finally, add cooked Basmati rice into the soup along with grated parmesan and shredded mozzarella cheese. Stir well until everything is combined and heated through.

Step 5: Serve Hot

Ladle your creamy white chicken + rice soup into bowls while it’s hot. Enjoy this comforting meal with your favorite bread or salad!

How to Serve Creamy White Chicken + Rice Soup

Serving Creamy White Chicken + Rice Soup is all about enhancing the experience of this comforting dish. Whether you’re enjoying it for lunch or dinner, presentation and pairing can elevate your meal.

With Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or chives on top for a burst of flavor and color.

Accompanied by Bread

• Serve with crusty bread such as a baguette or sourdough for dipping. This adds texture and makes the meal more filling.

In a Bread Bowl

• Use a bread bowl for an interesting twist! Hollow out a round loaf and ladle the soup inside for a fun serving option.

Topped with Cheese

• Add extra cheese on top, like mozzarella or Parmesan, before serving. Melt it slightly in the oven for a delicious finish.

With a Side Salad

• Pair with a crisp salad to balance the richness of the soup. A simple green salad with vinaigrette works well.

How to Perfect Creamy White Chicken + Rice Soup

Perfecting your Creamy White Chicken + Rice Soup involves attention to detail and a few helpful tips. Follow these guidelines to ensure your soup reaches its full potential.

• Use homemade stock for depth: Homemade chicken or vegetable stock provides richer flavor compared to store-bought options.

• Adjust seasonings gradually: Taste as you go! Start with less salt and spices, then adjust according to your preference for balance.

• Cook rice separately: For better texture, cook Basmati rice separately and add it just before serving, preventing it from becoming mushy.

• Incorporate vegetables: Feel free to add seasonal vegetables like peas or spinach right before serving for added nutrition and color.

• Blend if desired: For a creamier texture, blend part of the soup before adding back any solid ingredients. This thickens it without adding more cream.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy White Chicken + Rice Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Creamy White Chicken + Rice Soup can enhance the overall meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread complements the creamy soup perfectly, offering a satisfying crunch.

2. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad provides a tangy contrast that balances the richness of the soup.

3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add flavor and color on the plate while keeping things healthy.

4. Stuffed Peppers: Flavorful stuffed peppers filled with grains and spices can serve as a hearty complement.

5. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with cucumbers and tomatoes offers freshness alongside your warm soup.

6. Cheesy Biscuits: Soft, cheesy biscuits are perfect for dipping into the creamy goodness of the soup while adding indulgence to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Creamy White Chicken + Rice Soup can be simple, but there are a few common pitfalls. Here are mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the sautéing step: Failing to sauté the onions and garlic can lead to a lack of depth in flavor. Always take the time to cook these ingredients until they are fragrant.

• Not using enough seasoning: A bland soup is disappointing. Make sure to season your soup with enough salt and spices like smoked paprika to enhance the overall taste.

• Overcooking the rice: Adding overcooked rice can make your soup mushy. Cook your basmati rice separately and add it at the end to keep its texture intact.

• Ignoring the cream temperature: Cold cream can cause your soup to curdle. Always temper the cream by warming it slightly before adding it to the pot.

• Using low-quality stock: Poor quality stock can affect the soup’s taste. Opt for organic chicken or vegetable stock for a richer flavor.

• Neglecting garnishes: Skipping garnishes can make your dish less visually appealing. Fresh herbs or a sprinkle of cheese on top can elevate the presentation.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover soup in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3–4 days for best quality.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Creamy White Chicken + Rice Soup

• Freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags.
• It can be stored for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space in containers as liquids expand when frozen.

Reheating Creamy White Chicken + Rice Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), transfer soup into an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.

• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each until warm.

• Stovetop: Pour the soup into a pot over medium heat. Stir frequently until heated through. Add extra broth if needed for consistency.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

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

Yes, this soup stores well and can be made a day in advance. Just reheat before serving!

What type of chicken should I use?

You can use any cooked chicken—rotisserie chicken works great for convenience.

Is Creamy White Chicken + Rice Soup gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is gluten-free if you ensure your stock and other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Can I customize this Creamy White Chicken + Rice Soup?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like spinach or peas for added nutrition and color.

What is a good substitute for heavy cream?

Coconut milk or cashew cream can be used as dairy-free alternatives while still providing creaminess.

Final Thoughts

Creamy White Chicken + Rice Soup is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting hug in a bowl! This versatile recipe allows for plenty of customization, whether you want to add more veggies or adjust the spices. Give it a try, and enjoy every delicious spoonful!