Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rich and comforting – The creamy texture and warm flavors make it perfect for chilly days.
Easy to make – Simple ingredients and one pot make for an easy, fuss-free meal.
Hearty and filling – With chicken, rice, and veggies, this soup is a complete meal in a bowl.
Customizable – Easily adjust ingredients to fit your dietary preferences.
Great for leftovers – Tastes even better the next day!

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Olive oil – For sautéing the vegetables.
Celery – Adds a mild, fresh crunch.
Carrots – Adds sweetness and color.
Onion – Provides depth of flavor.
Salt – Enhances all the flavors in the soup.
Garlic – Infuses the broth with a rich, aromatic taste.
Oregano – Adds a subtle, earthy herbal flavor.
Flour – Helps thicken the soup.
Chicken broth – The flavorful base of the soup.
Rice – Absorbs the broth and adds texture.
Cream – Gives the soup its luscious, creamy consistency.
Cooked chicken – Provides protein and heartiness.
Fresh dill – Adds a burst of freshness at the end.

Directions

1. Sauté the Vegetables

Heat a heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat.
Add olive oil, celery, carrots, onion, and salt.
Sauté for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

2. Add Seasonings and Flour

Turn the heat to low and add garlic, oregano, and flour.
Stir and cook for 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste.

3. Add Broth and Rice

Slowly pour in the chicken broth, stirring and scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
Stir until the flour dissolves.
Add the rinsed rice and cream.
Increase the heat and bring the soup to a gentle boil.

4. Simmer the Soup

Reduce the heat to low, cover with a lid slightly ajar, and simmer for 12 minutes.
Stir occasionally to prevent the rice from sticking.

5. Add the Chicken

Add the cooked chicken and simmer for 2 more minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked.
Taste and adjust salt as needed.

6. Finish and Serve

Remove from heat and stir in fresh dill.
Serve hot with crusty bread for dipping.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4-6 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Dairy-Free Option: Replace cream with coconut milk or omit it for a lighter soup.
Gluten-Free: Use cornstarch instead of flour to thicken the soup.
Protein Swap: Use shredded turkey instead of chicken.
Extra Veggies: Add spinach, kale, or mushrooms for more nutrients.
Lemon Twist: Stir in fresh lemon juice for a bright, tangy flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days.
Freezing: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to adjust consistency.

FAQs

1. Can I use uncooked chicken?

Yes! Add raw, diced chicken with the broth and simmer until fully cooked.

2. What type of rice works best?

Long-grain white rice works well, but brown rice or wild rice can be used (adjust cooking time).

3. Can I use a different herb instead of dill?

Yes! Parsley, thyme, or rosemary would work beautifully.

4. How do I make this soup thicker?

Use more flour, or blend a portion of the soup before adding the chicken.

5. Can I use low-fat milk instead of cream?

Yes, but the soup will be less creamy. For a richer texture, try half-and-half.

6. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes! Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, adding the cream at the end.

7. Can I add pasta instead of rice?

Yes! Small pasta shapes like orzo or ditalini work well. Adjust cooking time accordingly.

8. Why is my rice too soft?

Overcooking or using instant rice can cause mushy rice. Stick to long-grain rice and follow the cooking times.

9. Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes! The flavors develop even more when stored overnight in the fridge.

10. How do I add more flavor to the broth?

Use homemade chicken stock, a bay leaf, or a splash of white wine for added depth.

Conclusion

Creamy chicken and rice soup is the ultimate comfort food—rich, filling, and incredibly easy to make. Whether you're looking for a cozy meal on a cold night or a satisfying lunch, this soup is sure to hit the spot. Serve it with crusty bread and enjoy every creamy, flavorful bite!