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 family dinners, cozy lunches, or any occasion when you’re craving something warm and satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting Flavor: The combination of creamy cheese and tender chicken makes this soup irresistible.
• Quick Preparation: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize it with your favorite veggies or spices for a unique twist.
• Kid-Friendly: A delicious way to get kids excited about eating their veggies.
• Healthy Option: Packed with nutrients while remaining indulgently creamy.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather the necessary tools to make your experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Pot
• Ladle
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Pot: A sturdy pot is essential to simmer the soup evenly and prevent sticking.
• Ladle: Helps in serving the soup easily without spilling.
• Cutting Board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables and preparing ingredients.
• Chef’s Knife: A sharp knife allows for precise cuts, making prep quicker and safer.

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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

Herbs and Seasoning

• 4 fresh thyme sprigs
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tsp sea salt
• 2 tsps On Everything All-Purpose Blend
• 1 tsp smoked paprika (You can add another teaspoon if desired)

Liquids

• 4 cups chicken or vegetable stock, organic
• 1 cup heavy cream, organic
• 3 Tbsps white cooking apple vinegar (You can omit + sub with stock)

Final Touches

• 2 cups Easy Shredded Chicken
• 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:
1. Add the extra virgin olive oil.
2. Once hot, add the chopped onion, minced garlic, celery, and carrots.
3. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.

Step 2: Add Herbs and Stock

Next:
1. Stir in the thyme sprigs and bay leaf.
2. Pour in the chicken or vegetable stock.
3. Bring to a gentle boil.

Step 3: Incorporate Chicken and Cream

Once boiling:
1. Reduce heat to low.
2. Add in the shredded chicken and heavy cream.
3. Stir until combined.

Step 4: Season the Soup

To enhance flavor:
1. Add white cooking apple vinegar (if using), sea salt, On Everything All-Purpose Blend, and smoked paprika.
2. Simmer on low for about 10 minutes.

Step 5: Finish with Rice and Cheese

Finally:
1. Stir in cooked Basmati rice slowly.
2. Gradually add grated parmesan and mozzarella cheese until melted through.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed before serving.

Enjoy your delicious 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 enjoyed in various ways. Whether served as a main course or alongside other dishes, it provides a warm and satisfying experience. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

With Fresh Herbs

• Garnish with parsley or cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh herbs adds brightness and color.
• Add a squeeze of lemon: This adds acidity that balances the creaminess.

Accompanied by Bread

• Serve with crusty bread: A slice of sourdough or French baguette is perfect for dipping.
• Try garlic bread: It complements the soup’s flavors and adds a savory touch.

As Part of a Meal

• Pair with a simple salad: A light green salad can provide freshness and crunch.
• Include roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add depth and nutrition to the meal.

How to Perfect Creamy White Chicken + Rice Soup

Perfecting your Creamy White Chicken + Rice Soup requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.

• Use homemade stock: For richer flavor, make stock from chicken bones or vegetable scraps.
• Incorporate more vegetables: Add spinach or kale for extra nutrients and color.
• Adjust seasoning carefully: Taste as you go; you can always add more salt or spices but not take them away.
• Stir in cheese gradually: This prevents clumping and ensures even distribution throughout the soup.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy White Chicken + Rice Soup

To create a well-rounded meal, consider these side dishes that pair wonderfully with Creamy White Chicken + Rice Soup.

1. Garlic Bread: Toasted bread with garlic butter enhances the soup experience.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with creamy dressing adds great texture contrast.
3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These add a nutty flavor that pairs well with the creamy soup.
4. Crispy Potato Wedges: Seasoned potato wedges provide crunch and heartiness alongside the soup.
5. Stuffed Bell Peppers: These colorful peppers filled with rice and vegetables complement the dish nicely.
6. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins create a delightful balance with the savory soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes will ensure your Creamy White Chicken + Rice Soup turns out perfectly every time.

• Using dry rice: Adding uncooked rice directly to the soup can lead to an overly thick texture. Always use pre-cooked Basmati rice for the best results.
• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning your soup properly can result in bland flavors. Make sure to add salt and spices at each step to build flavor.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken too long can make it tough and dry. Shred it and add it back into the soup just before serving for tender pieces.
• Neglecting fresh herbs: Using dried herbs instead of fresh can diminish flavor. Fresh thyme adds a vibrant aroma that enhances your soup significantly.
• Not adjusting consistency: If the soup is too thick, it’s easy to fix! Just add more stock or water until you reach your desired consistency.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Creamy White Chicken + Rice Soup

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space in containers as liquids expand when frozen.

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, about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute increments until hot, stirring in between.
• Stovetop: Heat on medium-low in a saucepan, stirring frequently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

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

Yes! You can prepare this soup a day or two in advance. Store it properly and reheat when ready to serve.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use coconut cream or cashew cream for a lighter option while maintaining creaminess.

How do I make this recipe vegetarian?

Simply replace chicken with plant-based protein and use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock for a delicious vegetarian variant.

Can I customize my Creamy White Chicken + Rice Soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or peas, or swap herbs based on your preference for different flavors.

Final Thoughts

Our Creamy White Chicken + Rice Soup is not only comforting but also versatile. With simple ingredients and easy customization options, this recipe is perfect for any weeknight dinner. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and ingredients that suit your taste!