When the chill of winter sets in and I crave something that wraps me in warmth, I turn to my favorite Creamy White Chicken + Rice Soup. The first spoonful envelops me in a luxurious blend of tender shredded chicken, aromatic herbs, and rich, melting cheeses—all combined to create a comforting haven in a bowl. The delightful harmony of flavors dances on my palate, turning an ordinary weeknight into a cozy retreat.

I remember a day not long ago, the wind howling outside as I rummaged through my pantry. That’s when I stumbled upon ingredients just waiting to be transformed into this creamy goodness. Not only is this soup incredibly satisfying, but it also offers versatile options for vegan and gluten-free preferences, making it a crowd-pleaser for every dietary need. So pull out your favorite pot and let’s indulge in this nourishing recipe that will soon become a staple in your home kitchen!

Why is White Chicken Rice Soup a Must-Try?

Creamy Comfort: This White Chicken Rice Soup is the ultimate go-to for cozy nights, enveloping you in its velvety texture and rich flavors that soothe the soul.

Versatile Options: With vegan and gluten-free adaptations, it caters to everyone’s taste preferences, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends.

Quick & Easy: This one-pot wonder saves you time on cleanup and is a breeze to whip up—even for busy weeknights!

Hearty & Nourishing: Packed with wholesome ingredients like tender chicken, fragrant herbs, and warming spices, it turns simple cooking into a satisfying experience.

Crowd Favorite: Whether served as a main course or with garlic bread on the side, it’s sure to have everyone coming back for seconds! 🌟

White Chicken Rice Soup Ingredients

• Let’s gather everything we need for this delicious dish!

For the Soup Base

Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Adds richness and depth; you can substitute with any cooking oil.
Easy Shredded Chicken – The main protein source; prepare using a quick shredded chicken recipe.
Red Onion – Brings sweetness and flavor; feel free to swap it with white or yellow onion.
Garlic Cloves – Provides aromatic flavor; fresh minced garlic is ideal for depth.
Organic Celery Stalks – Contributes crunch and flavor; can be replaced with green bell pepper.
Carrots – Adds sweetness and vibrant color; baby carrots work just as well.
Fresh Thyme Sprigs – Enhances flavor with herby notes; substitute with dried thyme if needed.
Bay Leaf – Adds complexity; remember to remove it before serving.

For the Liquid Gold

Chicken or Vegetable Stock – Forms the soup base; use low-sodium for a healthier option.
Heavy Cream – Provides creaminess; you can opt for full-fat coconut milk for a vegan alternative.
White Cooking Wine – Adds depth to the flavor; this can be omitted or replaced with extra stock if preferred.
Sea Salt – Enhances all the flavors; adjust to your taste for the perfect seasoning.
On Everything All-Purpose Blend – A delightful mix of spices that packs flavor; can swap with garlic powder, oregano, and parsley if needed.
Smoked Paprika – Adds warmth and smokiness; raise the quantity for a more pronounced flavor.

For the Hearty Texture

Cooked Basmati Rice – Gives the soup a filling quality; uncooked rice can be used but adjust the cooking time with added stock.
Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese – A rich addition; avoid pre-grated cheese for best melting quality.
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese – Complements the Parmesan; select organic for the highest quality.

With these ingredients in hand, your journey to creating a heartwarming White Chicken Rice Soup is just beginning!

How to Make White Chicken Rice Soup

Prepare Chicken: Begin by preparing the Easy Shredded Chicken according to your preferred recipe. This will serve as the flavorful base of your soup.
Heat Oil: In a medium-sized Dutch oven, warm up a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil over medium-high heat until it glistens.
Sauté Aromatics: Toss in the chopped red onions and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant—about 1-2 minutes. You want the onions to become translucent and fragrant!
Add Veggies: Next, add the chopped carrots and celery, stirring them for another 1-2 minutes until they’re slightly tender. The colors will start to brighten!
Season: Stir in the sea salt, smoked paprika, and the “On Everything All-Purpose Blend,” ensuring all the veggies get coated. This creates a delightful flavor base!
Combine Ingredients: Pour in the chicken or vegetable stock, heavy cream, and white cooking wine (if using). Toss in the bay leaf, thyme sprigs, shredded chicken, and cooked basmati rice. Stir to combine everything!
Simmer: Let the mixture simmer for about 8-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the veggies to become tender. Adjust the time if using dry rice to ensure everything is perfectly cooked!
Add Cheeses: Gently stir in the freshly grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella cheese, mixing until they melt and make the soup creamy—about 2-3 minutes.
Finalize: Remove the pot from heat and discard the bay leaf and thyme sprigs. Your soup is now ready and bubbling with goodness!
Serve: Ladle the warm soup into bowls and serve immediately, perhaps with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad for a delicious meal!

Optional: For a garnish, sprinkle some extra herbs or a drizzle of olive oil on top before serving.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with White Chicken Rice Soup?

Complete your comforting meal with delightful sides that enhance every sip of your creamy indulgence.

Garlic Bread: Perfect for dipping, its crispy exterior and buttery flavor complement the rich warmth of the soup.
Fresh Garden Salad: A light and crisp salad adds a refreshing contrast, balancing the velvety texture wonderfully.

Pair your soup with something that embraces the soul of homemade comfort. A lovely crisp wine can also elevate the experience, with its refreshing acidity enhancing the creamy notes of the soup.

Roasted Veggies: Earthy roasted veggies, seasoned to perfection, bring a delightful crunch and vibrant flavors to the table.
Cheesy Rice Casserole: Enhance the creamy experience with a cheesy casserole, perfectly mirroring the basmati rice in your soup.
Lemon Herb Quinoa: This gluten-free option provides a citrusy zest, brightening up each bite and contrasting the rich soup.

The right pairings can transform an already comforting White Chicken Rice Soup into an unforgettable meal perfect for gathering with loved ones.

Storage Tips for White Chicken Rice Soup

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool the soup down to room temperature before sealing it.
Freezer: For longer storage, place the cooled soup in freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 6 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat on the stove over low to medium heat, adding a splash of water or stock if needed to restore creaminess. Stir frequently to prevent sticking.
Airtight Storage: Ensure your containers are well-sealed to keep the flavors intact for your hearty White Chicken Rice Soup during storage!

White Chicken Rice Soup Variations

Feel free to get creative with this recipe and tailor it to your taste buds!

Vegan Swap: Replace chicken with chickpeas or lentils, and use coconut milk instead of heavy cream for a delicious plant-based option.
Gluten-Free Choice: Opt for gluten-free noodles instead of basmati rice, maintaining that comforting creaminess while accommodating dietary needs.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for a zesty twist that brings warmth to your bowl. Isn’t it fun to dial up the heat?
Herb Variations: Swap out thyme for fresh basil or dill for an aromatic shift, creating a new flavor profile that feels completely fresh.
Extra Veggies: Toss in some spinach or kale right before serving for additional nutrients and a pop of color. These greens not only enhance the meal but also bring added health benefits!
Smoky Flavor Boost: Incorporate chorizo or smoked sausage for a deep, smoky essence and savory richness that mellows beautifully with the creaminess.
Cheesy Delight: Experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère or pepper jack for a unique flavor twist that’ll keep everyone guessing!
Rice Alternatives: Substitute the basmati rice with wild rice or quinoa for a nutty texture and a distinct taste that elevates your soup to new heights.

Expert Tips for White Chicken Rice Soup

Balance Flavors: Adjust seasoning towards the end by tasting the soup. Sometimes a pinch more salt or paprika can elevate your White Chicken Rice Soup significantly!
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and vegetables bring depth; avoid pre-packaged or wilted produce for the best flavor and texture.
Crisp Veggies: To avoid mushy vegetables, aim for slightly tender veggies when sautéing—this adds a delightful crunch to your soup.
Cheese Choice: For optimal creaminess, always opt for freshly grated cheese; pre-shredded cheeses often contain anti-caking agents that hinder melting.
Storage Reminder: When storing leftovers, make sure to cool the soup to room temperature before sealing it in containers for 2-3 days in the fridge or freeze for later enjoyment.
Versatile Variations: Feel free to add any leftover vegetables from your fridge to this soup; it’s a fantastic way to minimize waste while creating a personalized dish!

Make Ahead Options

These White Chicken Rice Soup preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during hectic weeknights! You can prepare the soup base (without the cheese) up to 24 hours in advance. Start by cooking the soup according to the instructions, then refrigerate it in an airtight container overnight. When you’re ready to enjoy your meal, reheat the soup on the stovetop and stir in the freshly grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella cheese until melted and creamy. This way, you’ll still have a delicious, comforting soup that tastes just as good as when it was freshly made, making your meal planning effortless!

White Chicken Rice Soup Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken is best for this soup?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. These cuts are easy to shred and remain moist during cooking. You can also use rotisserie chicken for a quick option!

How long can I store leftover White Chicken Rice Soup in the fridge?
Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure to let the soup cool to room temperature before sealing it. Reheat gently on the stove, stirring occasionally.

Can I freeze White Chicken Rice Soup?
Yes, you can freeze this soup! To do so, allow it to cool completely and ladle it into freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 6 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove over low heat. If the soup thickens, just add a splash of water or stock!

What if my soup turns out too thick?
If your soup ends up thicker than you’d like, don’t worry! Simply add a bit of broth or water slowly while stirring until you achieve your desired consistency. This will maintain the creaminess while lightening it up.

Is there a dairy-free alternative for this recipe?
Very! For a dairy-free option, substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk, and omit the cheeses or use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. You can also replace chicken stock with vegetable stock to keep it vegan-friendly.

How can I make this soup gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just ensure you’re using gluten-free stock and avoid adding any traditional pasta. This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you check the ingredients of your stock and any added spices.