Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup

Delicious Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup Recipe with Mushrooms and Broccoli

Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 25 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup is a comforting and hearty dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. This soup is packed with tender chicken, nutritious vegetables, and creamy broth, making it a satisfying meal on its own.

History

Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup has been a popular dish in American cuisine for many years. It is believed to have originated as a way to use up leftover chicken and rice, creating a delicious and filling soup that is perfect for cold winter days.

Ingredients

1 cup sliced mushrooms
0.75 cup chopped white onion
0.5 cup butter
0.5 cup flour
4 cups half and half
3 cups chicken broth
2 cups diced cooked chicken
2 cups thawed frozen chopped broccoli
1.5 cups cooked brown rice
0.5 tsp dried rosemary
0.5 tsp salt
0.25 tsp dried thyme
0.25 tsp pepper

How to prepare

In a pan, sauté mushrooms in butter until they become tender. Then, add flour and stir until the mixture becomes smooth.
Continue cooking for 1 minute while stirring constantly.
Gradually add half and half and chicken broth to the mixture. Cook over medium heat while stirring constantly until the mixture becomes thick and bubbly. Then, stir in the remaining ingredients.
Cover the pan and let it simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Variations

Add diced carrots or celery for extra vegetables.
Use cooked white rice instead of brown rice for a different flavor.
Add a splash of lemon juice for a hint of brightness.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To add extra flavor to the soup, try using homemade chicken broth instead of store-bought.

- For a thicker soup, you can add more flour to the butter and mushroom mixture.

- Feel free to customize the soup by adding your favorite vegetables or herbs.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Sauté the mushrooms until they release their moisture and become tender.

- Gradually add the liquid ingredients to the flour mixture to prevent lumps from forming.

- Simmer the soup over low heat to allow the flavors to meld together.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version.

- Substitute cooked turkey for the chicken for a different twist.

- Use almond milk or coconut milk for a dairy-free option.

Make Ahead Tips

Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup with fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, for a pop of color. Serve in a bread bowl for a fun and creative presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup with a crisp green salad or a side of roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal. Serve with a glass of white wine or a light beer.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup contains approximately 400 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup contains approximately 20 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup contains approximately 15 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup is a good source of vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (butter and half and half) and wheat (flour), which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, along with essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. Packed with tender chicken, nutritious vegetables, and creamy broth, this soup is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is one that will always be special to me. It was a cold, rainy day and I was feeling under the weather. I had a craving for something warm and comforting, so I decided to rummage through my recipe box in search of a new soup recipe to try. As I flipped through the yellowed index cards and faded pieces of paper, I stumbled upon a recipe for Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup that caught my eye.

I remember the day I acquired this recipe vividly. It was a sunny afternoon in the early 1960s, and I was visiting my dear friend Margaret. Margaret was a fabulous cook and always had a new recipe up her sleeve to share with me. As we sat in her cozy kitchen, sipping tea and catching up on each other's lives, she pulled out a worn recipe card from her collection and handed it to me with a smile.

"This Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup recipe is one of my favorites," Margaret said. "It's hearty, comforting, and perfect for a chilly day. I think you'll love it."

I thanked Margaret and tucked the recipe card into my purse, promising to give it a try soon. Little did I know that this simple act of kindness would lead me to discover a new family favorite that would be passed down through generations.

As I read through the ingredients and instructions on the recipe card, I could almost smell the fragrant aroma of the soup simmering on the stove. The combination of tender chicken, creamy broth, and hearty rice seemed like the perfect antidote to my cold and dreary day. I couldn't wait to get started.

I gathered the ingredients from my pantry and set to work in the kitchen, chopping vegetables, simmering chicken, and stirring in the creamy broth. The soup bubbled and steamed on the stove, filling the air with a tantalizing scent that made my mouth water. I ladled a steaming bowlful into a bowl and took a tentative sip.

The first taste was like a warm hug from a dear friend. The rich, creamy broth coated my tongue, while the tender chunks of chicken and soft rice added a comforting texture. The earthy flavors of the vegetables mingled perfectly with the savory broth, creating a symphony of tastes that danced on my taste buds.

I knew right then and there that this Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup would become a staple in my kitchen. I made a mental note to add it to my repertoire of go-to recipes, alongside my famous meatloaf and decadent chocolate cake.

Over the years, I've made this soup countless times for family gatherings, potlucks, and cozy nights at home. Each time I stir the pot and inhale the comforting aroma of the simmering broth, I'm reminded of that special day in Margaret's kitchen, and the gift of a simple recipe that has brought so much joy to my loved ones.

As I sit here now, penning this story for my grandchildren to read, I can't help but feel grateful for the culinary adventures that have enriched my life. From the humble beginnings of a rainy day and a well-loved recipe card, I've learned that the simple act of sharing a meal with loved ones can create lasting memories and connections that transcend time and place.

And so, I pass on this cherished recipe for Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup to you, my dear grandchildren. May it bring you comfort, joy, and a taste of the love that has been simmering in our family kitchen for generations. Enjoy!