A Little Soup-y Tale Before We Begin…
So, picture this. It’s a rainy Tuesday. My socks are wet, my to-do list is terrifying, and I’ve just realized there’s absolutely nothing edible in the fridge—unless I plan on crunching on a questionable carrot and some expired hummus.
But then I remember… I have rice, chicken, a few veggies, and some leftover cream in the back of the fridge that’s still good (I did the sniff test, obviously). Ten minutes later, I’m standing in the kitchen with my apron on, channeling my inner soup wizard.
And folks the result? The most soul-soothing, belly-hugging, mood-lifting creamy chicken and rice soup I’ve ever made.
Moral of the story? When life gets rainy, make soup.
This creamy chicken and rice soup is loaded with tender chicken, veggies, and rice, all wrapped up in a luxuriously creamy broth. Whether you're whipping up the classic version, going a little wild with the creamy chicken and wild rice soup, or craving something oven-baked like the creamy chicken and rice bake, this recipe has you covered.
It’s easy, cozy, and totally customizable. Perfect for a lazy Sunday lunch or a midweek pick-me-up.
- Cook the Aromatics
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat.
Add diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5–6 minutes until softened.
Add minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute, just until fragrant. - Add Chicken & Broth
Stir in the cooked, shredded chicken and pour in the chicken broth.
Add thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. - Add Rice
Stir in the rice (white or wild). Reduce heat to medium-low.
Cover and simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and tender.
(Note: If using wild rice, simmer for 30–35 minutes.) - Make the Cream Base
In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
Whisk in the flour to create a roux. Cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly.
Slowly whisk in the heavy cream and cook until the mixture thickens (about 2–3 minutes). - Combine Everything
Pour the creamy roux into the soup pot and stir well.
Let the soup simmer uncovered for another 5–10 minutes to thicken slightly and let the flavors blend.
Add optional mushrooms or spinach if using. Adjust seasoning. - Serve and Enjoy
Ladle into bowls, sprinkle with cracked black pepper, chopped parsley, or even a little grated cheese on top. Serve with crusty bread, a grilled cheese, or straight up with a spoon and a smile.
A hearty soup with a rich texture and a great balance of carbs, protein, and fat — perfect for a satisfying meal.
- Calories:420 kcal
- Protein:28g
- Carbohydrates:30g
- Fat:22g
- Saturated Fat :10g
- Fiber:2g
- Sugar:3g
- Sodium:780mg
- Calcium :110mg
- Iron:2.5mg
A Warm Hug in a Bowl That’s Easy to Make and Impossible to Resist
Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup is more than just a comforting classic — it’s a problem-solver in UK kitchens where home cooks juggle busy lives, picky eaters, and ever-changing dietary needs. Whether you live in London or Liverpool, this one-pot wonder delivers nourishing flavour with minimal fuss.
See how this dish compares to Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta, or explore another British comfort like the Ultimate British Toad in the Hole Recipe.
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A Little Backstory to Warm the Heart
In a cosy countryside cottage in North Yorkshire, an elderly woman named June once shared this soup with her grandchildren every rainy weekend. “It’s what we made when we didn’t have much time but wanted something that felt like home,” she said. Now, decades later, her recipe has been passed down through generations — proof that simple ingredients and thoughtful cooking can still stir powerful memories.
This soup reminds many British families of home, warmth, and gathering together, even on a chilly Tuesday night.
Want to Bake It Instead?
Try this Twist: Creamy Chicken and Rice soup Bake
- Combine shredded chicken, cooked rice, sautéed veggies, cream, and cheese in a casserole dish.
- Top with breadcrumbs and shredded cheese.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25–30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
This version gives you the same cosy flavours, but with a new texture and a crispy topping!
Pro Tips for UK Kitchens
- Rotisserie chicken works great to save time.
- Use leftover rice and add it at the end if you don’t want to wait for it to cook.
- Add a splash of lemon juice or a dry white wine for a bit of brightness.
- Make it dairy-free with coconut milk or plant-based cream.
- Need it gluten-free? Skip the roux and thicken with cornstarch slurry instead.
Read more on how to organise your cooking with must-have kitchen organisers.
Common UK Cooking Challenges (And How This Recipe Solves Them)
1. Rice Absorbs Too Much Liquid
British home cooks often complain that the rice soaks up too much broth, making the soup overly thick. Fix it by cooking the rice separately and adding it just before serving.
2. Mushy or Overdone Rice
Simmering rice in the soup too long leads to soft, starchy grains. Tip: slightly undercook the rice and stir it in at the end for best texture.
3. Watery or Bland Broth
Low-sodium or watered-down broths are common. Start with flavourful stock, season in stages, and taste as you go.
4. Uneven Vegetable Cooking
Carrots, celery, and onions all cook at different speeds. Solution: add vegetables in stages based on their texture and cook time.
5. Balancing Nutrition and Comfort
Many UK families struggle to balance tasty meals with healthy ingredients. This soup allows you to sneak in extra vegetables, lean protein, and even whole grains like brown or wild rice.
6. Lack of Time
From busy parents in Birmingham to solo professionals in Brighton, time is tight. This soup can be made in under 30 minutes using cooked chicken and pre-chopped vegetables.
These simple fixes make this soup a reliable win for cooks across the UK, from Manchester to Cornwall.
Variations to Try
- Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup: Earthy, nutty wild rice adds texture and flavour depth. Great with mushrooms!
- Spicy Southwest Style: Add cumin, paprika, corn, and black beans.
- Herbed Version: Add fresh rosemary, sage, or basil for garden-fresh flavour.
Want to mix it up further? Try this Easy Mediterranean Shrimp Recipe for a lighter seafood option.
Storage and Reheating
- Fridge: Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze in batches (minus the rice, which can go mushy).
- Reheat: Warm slowly on the stove, adding broth or water as needed to loosen.
What People Say
“Tastes like a cosy blanket in soup form.”
— Jenny, soup lover & carb enthusiast
“My picky kids asked for seconds. That NEVER happens.”
— Mark, tired dad turned soup convert
On a soup-and-snack night, pair it with this Red Velvet Cheesecake Recipe or discover a fun cookie option with the Hot Cocoa Cookie Recipe.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare it the night before and warm it up slowly on the hob when ready to serve.
What’s the best rice to use?
Long grain white rice or wild rice works best for texture.
Can I freeze it with rice?
It’s better to freeze without rice and add it fresh when reheating.
Is it okay to use frozen vegetables?
Absolutely! It’s a great time-saver and still tastes delicious.
What can I serve with this soup?
Try crusty bread, salad, or even a sourdough banana bread for a comforting side.
Final Thoughts
This creamy chicken and rice soup is everything we love in comfort food: warmth, flavour, simplicity, and just the right amount of indulgence. No matter which version you choose — classic, wild rice, or baked — each one brings a comforting and satisfying meal to your table. It’s the kind of soup that turns ordinary days into memorable ones and brings people to the table with zero complaints.
Looking for more meal inspiration?
More Must-Try Recipes and Resources:
- Mexican White Queso Dip: see full recipe.
- Slow Cooker Beef and Black Bean Chili: click here to explore.
- Pastiera Napoletana: read more.
- Sourdough Discard Banana Bread Recipes: see how.
- Protein in Breakfast: read more.
Tools to Help You Cook Better, Smarter:
- Must-Have Kitchen Organizers: see the tools.
- Top 3 Must-Have Products for Every Home: read more.
- 10 Healthy Ingredients to Supercharge Quick Meals: see how.
So grab a spoon, turn on your favourite playlist, and get cooking. Your table — and your soul — will thank you.
