If you’re searching for a heartwarming meal that satisfies both your soul and your taste buds, look no further than this Creamy Chicken Broccoli Cheese Soup with Rice Recipe. It’s the perfect blend of tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, melty cheese, and comforting rice swirled together in a luscious, creamy broth. Every spoonful feels like a cozy hug on a chilly day, showcasing flavors that comfort and delight without any fuss. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a relaxed weekend, this soup recipe will become your go-to for effortless, savory goodness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and how every ingredient plays a vital role in crafting the perfect bowl. From the buttery base that adds richness, to the fresh broccoli bringing a bright pop of color and bite, each component contributes to making this soup truly special.
- ½ cup butter: Creates a rich, silky foundation and helps sauté the veggies.
- ½ cup celery, diced: Adds a subtle crunch and aromatic freshness.
- ½ cup onion, diced: Lends sweetness and depth when softened.
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour: Thickens the broth into a creamy texture without heaviness.
- 6 cups chicken broth: The savory liquid base that ties every flavor together.
- 3 cups chopped cooked chicken: Provides hearty protein for a satisfying meal.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses warmth and a gentle kick of flavor.
- 3 cups fresh broccoli, chopped: Introduces a vibrant crunch and a pop of green goodness.
- 1 (8-oz) package cream cheese: Ensures extra creaminess and a velvety mouthfeel.
- 4 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend: Melts beautifully for rich, cheesy indulgence.
- 3 cups cooked rice: Adds comforting substance and soaks up the flavorful broth.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for balancing and enhancing all the flavors.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Broccoli Cheese Soup with Rice Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Veggies
Begin by melting the butter in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced celery and onion, cooking until they start to soften and release their natural sweetness—this usually takes around 5 minutes. This step lays down a flavorful vegetable base that make the broth taste richer and more complex.
Step 2: Build the Base with Flour and Broth
Sprinkle in the all-purpose flour and stir continuously to create a roux. This will thicken the soup nicely without any lumps. Slowly whisk in the chicken broth, making sure it’s smooth and well combined. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Watching this transformation is always exciting because you’ll already start to smell those layers of flavor developing.
Step 3: Add the Star Ingredients
Once the broth is boiling, add in the cooked chicken, minced garlic, chopped broccoli, cream cheese, shredded Mexican cheese blend, and cooked rice. Immediately reduce the heat to a simmer. Stir frequently to melt the cheese evenly and let the broccoli soften just until tender but still bright green. This step is where everything truly comes together into a creamy, cheesy masterpiece.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Broccoli Cheese Soup with Rice Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of extra shredded cheese, a few fresh broccoli florets, or a light dusting of cracked black pepper can elevate the presentation and add a bit of texture contrast. For a fresh touch, chopped green onions or a swirl of sour cream work beautifully as well.
Side Dishes
Pair this hearty soup with crusty bread or warm garlic rolls to soak up every last bit of the creamy broth. A simple green salad or a crisp coleslaw adds a refreshing balance to the richness of the soup, rounding out the meal perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the soup in rustic bread bowls for a charming, spill-proof presentation. Alternatively, ladle it over a bed of extra rice in deep bowls and top with crispy fried onions for added crunch. Personal touches like these make serving the Creamy Chicken Broccoli Cheese Soup with Rice Recipe extra special and fun.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer the soup into airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making leftovers just as delightful as the first serving.
Freezing
This soup freezes wonderfully. Pour cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip bags, leaving some room for expansion. It will keep well for up to 3 months, perfect for batch cooking and quick meals later on.
Reheating
Gently reheat the soup on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to reincorporate the cheese and prevent scorching. If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of chicken broth or water to bring back that creamy, smooth texture.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen broccoli works just fine and can be added directly to the soup during the simmer step. Just keep an eye on the cooking time to avoid overcooking so it stays tender and flavorful.
Is it possible to make this soup dairy-free?
You can customize this recipe by using dairy-free cream cheese and cheese alternatives. Additionally, swap butter for olive oil. The soup won’t be quite as rich but will still deliver plenty of comforting flavors.
What type of chicken works best?
Leftover roasted chicken or poached chicken breasts shredded or chopped works best here. Using cooked chicken keeps this recipe quick and easy without sacrificing taste or texture.
Can I substitute white rice with another grain?
Yes! Quinoa, brown rice, or even cauliflower rice can be delicious alternatives if you want to mix things up or add extra nutrients. Adjust cooking times accordingly if you’re cooking grains from scratch.
How thick should the soup be?
The ideal texture is creamy and hearty but not too thick. It should be thick enough to coat a spoon but still spoonable and comforting. If it gets too thick after cooling, just thin it with a bit more broth when reheating.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Chicken Broccoli Cheese Soup with Rice Recipe is one of those treasured dishes that bring warmth, comfort, and joy with each spoonful. It’s perfect for sharing with family and friends, and once you try it, it will undoubtedly earn a permanent place on your list of favorites. Dive in and enjoy all the creamy, cheesy goodness packed with wholesome ingredients — your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Creamy Chicken Broccoli Cheese Soup with Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This comforting Chicken Broccoli Cheese Soup with Rice is a creamy and hearty meal perfect for family dinners. Combining tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a rich blend of cheeses, this soup simmers to perfection in just 30 minutes, making it a delicious and satisfying choice for any day.
Ingredients
Dairy and Fats
- ½ cup butter
- 1 (8-oz) package cream cheese
- 4 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend
Vegetables
- ½ cup celery, diced
- ½ cup onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups fresh broccoli, chopped
Proteins and Grains
- 3 cups chopped cooked chicken
- 3 cups cooked rice
Dry Ingredients and Liquids
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 6 cups chicken broth
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Sauté Vegetables: In a Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced celery and onion, cooking until they begin to soften and become translucent, about 4-5 minutes.
- Make the Roux and Add Broth: Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the softened vegetables and stir well to combine. Slowly whisk in the chicken broth to ensure no lumps form. Increase the heat and bring the mixture to a boil while continuously stirring.
- Add Remaining Ingredients and Simmer: Stir in the cooked chicken, minced garlic, chopped broccoli, cream cheese, shredded Mexican cheese blend, and cooked rice. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook gently until the cheese has melted completely and the broccoli is tender, which should take around 8-10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.
Notes
- Use freshly cooked rice or day-old rice for best texture in the soup.
- To make it lower in fat, substitute butter with olive oil and use reduced-fat cream cheese and cheese blend.
- If you prefer a smoother soup, you can partially blend before adding the cooked chicken and rice.
- Feel free to add a pinch of nutmeg or smoked paprika for extra flavor.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
