Chicken Broccoli Cheese Soup with Rice

There’s nothing quite like a warm, hearty bowl of soup to chase away the chill and satisfy your cravings. This Chicken Broccoli Cheese Soup with Rice is a creamy, savory delight that combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and melty cheese, all cooked to perfection. It’s not just a meal; it’s a comforting hug in a bowl. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend lunch, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Chicken Broccoli Cheese Soup with Rice is more than just a tasty dish; it’s a complete meal packed with flavor and nutrition. The combination of protein from chicken, fiber from broccoli, and comfort from creamy cheese makes it a well-rounded choice. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make and can be customized to suit your family’s tastes. Whether you’re a busy parent or a cooking novice, you’ll appreciate how quickly this soup comes together. And let’s not forget about the leftovers—this soup tastes even better the next day!

The Ingredient Lineup

To whip up this delicious Chicken Broccoli Cheese Soup with Rice, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• __ cup butter – for sautéing and richness
• __ cup celery, diced – adds crunch and flavor
• __ cup onion, diced – for that aromatic base
• __ cup all-purpose flour – to thicken the soup
• 6 cups chicken broth – the flavorful liquid base
• 3 cups chopped cooked chicken – protein-packed goodness
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – for depth of flavor
• 3 cups fresh broccoli, chopped – vibrant and nutritious
• 1 (8-oz) package cream cheese – for creaminess
• 4 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend – melty and delicious
• 3 cups cooked rice – to make it hearty
• Salt and pepper, to taste – essentials for seasoning

Setup & Equipment

Before diving into the cooking process, here’s what you’ll need:

• Large pot or Dutch oven – for cooking the soup
• Wooden spoon – for stirring
• Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate ingredient amounts
• Knife and cutting board – for chopping vegetables
• Serving bowls – to enjoy your soup

Mastering Chicken Broccoli Cheese Soup with Rice: How-To

Now that you have your ingredients ready and equipment in place, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create your Chicken Broccoli Cheese Soup with Rice.

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the celery and onion. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the onion is translucent. This will create a flavorful base for your soup.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Flour

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Next, sprinkle in the all-purpose flour and stir well to combine. Cook for about 2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste, stirring constantly.

Step 3: Pour in the Chicken Broth

Gradually add the chicken broth, stirring continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing it to thicken slightly.

Step 4: Incorporate the Chicken and Broccoli

Once the broth has thickened, stir in the chopped cooked chicken and fresh broccoli. Allow the soup to simmer for about 10 minutes or until the broccoli is tender but still vibrant green.

Step 5: Add Cream Cheese and Cheese Blend

Reduce the heat to low and add the cream cheese to the pot, stirring until it melts and combines smoothly with the soup. Then, slowly add the shredded Mexican cheese blend, stirring until it’s fully melted and incorporated.

Step 6: Mix in the Rice

Finally, stir in the cooked rice. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Let it heat through for a couple of minutes, and your Chicken Broccoli Cheese Soup with Rice is ready to serve!

Spring to Winter: Ideas

This Chicken Broccoli Cheese Soup with Rice is versatile and can be enjoyed year-round. Here are a few ideas to make it even more special:

• Top with crispy bacon or croutons for added crunch.
• Serve with a side of warm marry me chicken soup for a delightful meal pairing.
• Add a splash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
• Incorporate other vegetables like carrots or peas for more color and flavor.

Missteps & Fixes

Even the best chefs encounter a few bumps in the road. Here’s how to troubleshoot common issues:

• If the soup is too thick, add a bit more chicken broth or water until you reach your desired consistency.
• For a smoother texture, blend the soup using an immersion blender before adding the rice.
• If the soup tastes too bland, enhance the flavor with a splash of lemon juice or additional seasonings.
• If you find the soup is too salty, balance it out with a little more cream cheese or unsweetened yogurt.

Save for Later: Storage Tips

Got leftovers? This Chicken Broccoli Cheese Soup with Rice stores beautifully. Here’s how to make the most of it:

Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth to restore its creamy texture.

Your Top Questions

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli in this recipe. Just be sure to thaw and drain it before adding it to the soup to avoid excess moisture.

What type of chicken should I use?

Cooked rotisserie chicken works perfectly in this recipe, but you can also use leftover grilled or baked chicken. Just make sure it’s chopped into bite-sized pieces.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! While the Mexican cheese blend adds a great flavor, you can substitute it with cheddar, gouda, or even a dairy-free cheese if you prefer.

How can I make this soup vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with extra vegetables like mushrooms or chickpeas, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Omit the chicken and use a plant-based cream cheese alternative.

Complete your meal with some delicious accompaniments:

Before You Go

This Chicken Broccoli Cheese Soup with Rice is a heartwarming dish that’s perfect for any day of the year. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it’s bound to become a staple in your kitchen. Don’t forget to customize it to your taste and enjoy every last spoonful. Happy cooking!