Chicken Broccoli Cheese Soup with Rice

When the weather turns chilly and the days grow shorter, there’s nothing quite like curling up with a warm bowl of Chicken Broccoli Cheese Soup with Rice. This dish is a comforting, hearty blend of tender chicken, bright broccoli, creamy cheese, and fluffy rice. It’s not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make, making it the perfect choice for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend lunch. Let’s dive into why this soup stands out and how you can whip it up in no time.

Why This Chicken Broccoli Cheese Soup with Rice Stands Out

This Chicken Broccoli Cheese Soup with Rice is more than just a bowl of comfort. It’s packed with wholesome ingredients, making it a nutritious option for your family. The combination of creamy cheese and savory chicken broth creates a rich base, while the broccoli adds a pop of color and essential vitamins. Plus, the addition of rice makes this soup a complete meal in itself. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or simply craving a warm hug in a bowl, this soup is sure to satisfy.

Ingredient Checklist

• 1 cup butter
• 1 cup celery, diced
• 1 cup onion, diced
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 3 cups chopped cooked chicken
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 cups fresh broccoli, chopped
• 1 (8-oz) package cream cheese
• 4 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend
• 3 cups cooked rice
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Prep & Cook Tools

• Large pot – Ideal for cooking soups and stews.
• Wooden spoon – Perfect for stirring and mixing ingredients.
• Measuring cups and spoons – Essential for accurate ingredient measurements.
• Chopping board and knife – To prepare your vegetables and chicken.

Cook Chicken Broccoli Cheese Soup with Rice Like This

Step 1: Sauté Vegetables

In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced celery and onion, sautéing for about 5 minutes until they are soft and fragrant. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Step 2: Create the Roux

Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables and stir constantly for about 2 minutes. This will help cook off the raw flour taste and create a thick base for your soup.

Step 3: Add Chicken Broth

Gradually pour in the chicken broth while continuously stirring to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Incorporate Chicken and Broccoli

Once simmering, add the chopped cooked chicken and fresh broccoli to the pot. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the broccoli is tender but still vibrant.

Step 5: Mix in Cream Cheese

Reduce the heat to low and add the cream cheese, stirring until fully melted and incorporated into the soup.

Step 6: Cheese It Up!

Stir in the shredded Mexican cheese blend, allowing it to melt into the soup and create a creamy texture.

Step 7: Final Touches

Add the cooked rice and season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow the soup to heat through for a few minutes before serving.

Substitutions by Category

• Cheese: Use cheddar cheese for a sharper flavor.
• Chicken: Substitute with turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Broccoli: Feel free to add other vegetables like cauliflower or carrots.
• Rice: Quinoa or orzo can be used as an alternative to rice.

Problems & Prevention

• Soup too thick: If your soup becomes too thick, simply add more chicken broth or water until you reach your desired consistency.
• Cheese clumping: Make sure to keep the heat low when adding cheese to prevent it from clumping. Stir continuously for even melting.
• Broccoli overcooked: Add the broccoli toward the end of cooking to ensure it remains bright and tender-crisp.

Meal Prep & Storage Notes

This Chicken Broccoli Cheese Soup with Rice is perfect for meal prep. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if it thickens up too much. You can also freeze the soup for up to 2 months, but it’s best to add the rice fresh when serving to maintain its texture.

Ask & Learn

Can I make this soup in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the soup a day ahead of time. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat when you’re ready to serve.

What can I serve with this soup?

This soup is a meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a simple side salad for a well-rounded dinner.

How do I make this soup spicier?

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to give your soup a spicy kick!

Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken?

Yes! Leftover rotisserie chicken is perfect for this recipe. It saves time and adds extra flavor to the soup.

Quick Weeknight Wins

• Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole
• Easy Vegetable Soup
• Best Chicken Soup Recipe
• 30-Minute Chicken Stir-Fry

Ready to Cook?

With its creamy texture, vibrant colors, and comforting flavors, this Chicken Broccoli Cheese Soup with Rice is sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation. Whether you’re serving it to family or enjoying it solo, each spoonful is a warm embrace that nourishes both the body and soul. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let’s make a hearty pot of soup that will warm your heart and home. Enjoy every last drop of this delicious dish!