Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup Recipe

If you are craving a bowl of ultimate comfort that warms you up from the inside out, this Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup Recipe is just what you need. It’s rich, velvety, and packed with tender chicken, hearty wild rice, and vibrant vegetables, all swimming in a luscious, creamy broth. Perfect for chilly evenings, family dinners, or when you want a dish that feels like a big hug in a bowl, this soup hits every note of cozy goodness without complicated steps or hard-to-find ingredients.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this soup plays a key role in achieving that perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color. From the earthy mushrooms to the tender carrots and creamy broth, these simple staples come together beautifully to create a dish that’s both soothing and satisfying.

• 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breast: Provides lean protein and tender chunks that soak up all the flavors.
• 1 medium onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth as it cooks down to softness.
• 1 cup diced carrots: Brings a touch of natural sweetness and vibrant color.
• 4 oz baby bella mushrooms, chopped: Lends an earthy, meaty texture that complements the chicken perfectly.
• 2 tbsp butter: Used for sautéing, it enriches the base with a creamy, comforting fat.
• 2.5 cups chicken broth: The flavorful liquid foundation that ties everything together smoothly.
• 1 box (6 oz) Uncle Ben’s Wild Rice (with seasonings): Quick-cooking rice blend seasoned to infuse bold, rustic flavor.
• 2 cups heavy cream: Creates that luxurious, creamy texture that defines this soup.
• 1/2-1 tsp kosher salt: Essential seasoning to enhance all the natural flavors.
• Optional – 1 tbsp cornstarch: For thickening the soup if you prefer a richer consistency.

How to Make Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Start by heating butter in your Instant Pot on sauté mode. Toss in the chopped onions, diced carrots, and chopped baby bella mushrooms. Stir often and scrape the bottom to prevent sticking until the onions become translucent and tender, which should take about 5 minutes. This step unlocks the natural sweetness and deepens the soup’s flavor base.

Step 2: Add Chicken and Rice

Next, carefully add the chicken breasts to the pot along with chicken broth, the wild rice, and the seasoning packet from the rice box. Stir everything thoroughly so that nothing is stuck to the bottom and the flavors meld evenly. Set your Instant Pot to manual high pressure and cook for 8 minutes. Once done, allow a natural pressure release for 5 minutes before releasing the remaining pressure manually.

Step 3: Chop Chicken and Add Cream

Carefully remove the hot chicken breasts from the soup and chop them into bite-sized pieces. Stir the chicken back into the pot, then slowly pour in the heavy cream while continuously stirring to blend everything smoothly. Add 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt, taste, and adjust with up to another 1/2 teaspoon as desired. This luxurious step transforms the soup into the deliciously creamy texture we all love.

Step 4: Optional Thickening

If you prefer a thicker broth, scoop out one cup of soup liquid and whisk it together with the optional cornstarch until combined. Pour the mixture back into the pot, stir well, and close the lid on the Instant Pot. Let it sit for 10 minutes to thicken before giving it a final stir and serving. This little trick creates a silky, hearty consistency that’s absolutely irresistible.

How to Serve Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup Recipe

Garnishes

Simple garnishes can elevate your soup beautifully. A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or thyme adds a refreshing herbaceous note and a pop of color. For a little indulgence, a dusting of grated Parmesan or a swirl of extra cream can make your bowl look and taste like it came from a cozy bistro.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs wonderfully with a crusty baguette or soft dinner rolls for dipping into the creamy broth. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness perfectly. For a heartier meal, roasted vegetables or garlic Parmesan breadsticks make lovely companions to round out the dinner plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a charming presentation, serve this Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup Recipe in rustic mugs or mini cast iron skillets. Top each bowl with a sprinkle of toasted nuts like pine nuts or sliced almonds for an unexpected crunch. You can even ladle the soup over fresh cooked rice for a layered, restaurant-style plating that impresses every time.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup Recipe, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even tastier the next day. Just give it a good stir before reheating to redistribute the creaminess.

Freezing

This soup freezes well but for best texture, leave out the cream when freezing. Store the base soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and add fresh cream after reheating to recapture that signature creamy texture.

Reheating

Reheat your soup gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat to avoid curdling the cream. Stir frequently until warmed through. If the soup thickens too much upon standing, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore the silky consistency you love.

FAQs

Can I use regular white rice instead of wild rice?

Yes, you can substitute regular white rice, but wild rice adds a nutty flavor and unique texture that complement the chicken beautifully. Just adjust the cooking time as white rice typically cooks faster.

Is this Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup Recipe suitable for slow cookers?

Absolutely! You can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker by sautéing the veggies first on the stove and then combining all ingredients except cream in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours, add cream near the end, and stir in well.

Can I make this soup dairy-free?

For a dairy-free version, substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or a dairy-free creamer of your choice. The soup will still be creamy but with a subtle change in flavor.

What’s the best way to shred the chicken if I don’t want bite-sized pieces?

After cooking, you can use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the pot or on a cutting board for a different texture that integrates evenly throughout the soup.

How can I add more vegetables to this soup?

Feel free to add extra vegetables like celery, peas, or spinach during the sauté or pressure cooking steps. Just adjust liquid levels slightly if you add a lot to keep the perfect soup consistency.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup Recipe is a true kitchen champion that delivers heartwarming satisfaction without fuss. Its harmonious blend of tender chicken, wholesome rice, and rich, creamy broth makes it a meal you will want to come back to again and again. I hope you enjoy making this soup as much as I love sharing it — it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser perfect for any day you need a little extra comfort.

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