Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup

This creamy chicken and rice soup? Oh honey, it’s not just soup it’s a hug in a bowl. Think: soft carrots, juicy chicken, and cozy, starchy rice swimming in a thick, dreamy broth. It’s the kind of recipe that makes you sigh before you even sit down.

And best part? You make it all in one pot. No fuss. Just warmth, flavor, and that little moment of peace you’ve been craving.

Honestly, if you love cozy dinners as much as I do, you’ve got to try this hearty cheddar garlic herb potato soup next. It’s like sweater weather… in soup form.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup

You know those nights when you’re starving, tired, and don’t want to stare into your fridge like it’s a portal to nowhere? This soup is the answer.

It’s:

one-pot magic aka fewer dishes for your future self

ultra creamy without needing a can of anything weird

made with real stuff like carrots, chicken, and actual love

perfect for picky eaters, toddlers, grown-ups… everyone

so comforting you might just melt into your chair

Need a little something on the side? A slice of this crusty Italian bread is basically mandatory for dunking.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients You’ll Need

Freshly grated parmesan (optional)
cheesy, salty, and so satisfying on top

1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
tender, juicy, and totally forgiving

3 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
sweet and cozy, they bring that hearty vibe

2 celery stalks, diced
adds crunch and classic soup flavor

1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
the aromatic backbone of any good soup

5 cloves garlic, minced
because garlic is love (feel free to go big)

3 tablespoons butter
for sautéing and buttery goodness

¼ cup all-purpose flour
thickens the broth into dreamy, creamy territory

6 cups chicken broth
low-sodium gives you control over the salt

1 cup half and half
for that rich, creamy texture or use whole milk

¾ cup long grain white rice
jasmine is perfect, but any long grain works

1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or ½ teaspoon dried)
brings subtle earthiness

½ teaspoon fresh rosemary (or ¼ teaspoon dried)
a hint of woodsy depth

1 tablespoon soy sauce
adds savory umami and richness

1–2 teaspoons hot sauce (optional)
just a little heat, if you’re into it

Salt and black pepper, to taste
always season with your soul

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
makes it pretty and fresh

How to Make It (You’ve Got This)

Alright, soup stars grab your comfiest socks and let’s cook.

Step 1: Season and Cook the Chicken

Dice your chicken and toss it with salt, Italian seasoning, mustard powder, paprika, and chili flakes. Heat up a big pot, add a little oil or butter, and sear the chicken until golden and just cooked through. Set it aside while you build the base.

Step 2: Sauté the Veggies

Toss your carrots, onion, and celery into that same pot with a little more butter. Let them soften and get all fragrant and cozy 5–7 minutes. Add the garlic last and give it a quick stir (just enough to make your kitchen smell like a dream).

Step 3: Build the Creamy Broth

Sprinkle in your flour and stir it into the veggies no dry bits, okay? Then slowly pour in the broth while whisking. Stir in the half and half, soy sauce, hot sauce, thyme, and rosemary. It should already be smelling like dinner’s about to slap.

Step 4: Add Rice and Simmer

Stir in your uncooked rice and the chicken. Bring everything to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and let it go for about 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally. The rice will plump up and thicken the soup beautifully.

If it starts to look too thick? Splash in more broth. Soup’s flexible like that.

Step 5: Taste and Finish

Taste it. Adjust the salt. Add more hot sauce if you’re feeling bold. Ladle it into bowls, top with parmesan and chopped parsley, and dive in.

Bonus: it’s even better the next day if there’s any left.

Need another cozy option? This creamy chicken lasagna soup is pure comfort in a bowl too.

Tips and Little Swaps

Use rotisserie chicken if you’re short on time

Wild rice or brown rice? Go for it just cook a little longer

Want dairy-free? Oat milk or coconut milk works like a charm

Too thick after chilling? Add broth while reheating easy fix

Extra garlic, extra herbs? Always yes

Make it spicy with sliced jalapeños or just extra hot sauce

How to Store Leftovers

This soup loves a second life

Let it cool completely, then stash in the fridge for up to 4 days

Reheat on the stove or in the microwave just stir in a little extra broth to loosen it up

Not great for freezing (rice and cream don’t freeze well together), so go fresh if you can

Quick FAQs

Go Make It Already

This soup is warm, creamy, flavorful, and deeply satisfying even when you’ve had one of those days. Make a big batch, snuggle up with a bowl, and let the good vibes simmer.

If you try it, I’d LOVE to hear what you think. Leave a comment or tag me on your dreamy bowl pics!

Follow along on Pinterest for more cozy recipe inspo, or join our kitchen chaos on Facebook. You’re always welcome here.

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