Rice-a-Roni Chicken Soup

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Rice-a-Roni Chicken Soup is the perfect balance of rich, creamy texture and savory flavor. The combination of chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, and cream cheese creates a velvety smooth base, while the Rice-a-Roni Rice Pilaf adds a delicious, seasoned rice component. With fresh broccoli and carrots for added crunch and nutrition, this soup is as satisfying as it is comforting. It’s easy to make and can be ready in under an hour, making it a fantastic option for a busy weeknight meal.

Ingredients

• 6-7 cups chicken broth
• 1 box (7.25 oz) Rice-a-Roni Rice Pilaf
• 2 cups small chopped broccoli (fresh broccoli, not frozen)
• 1 cup finely shredded carrots
• 1 small white or yellow onion, finely diced
• 2½ cups cooked chicken (chopped or in chunks)
• 1 can (10.75 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. In a large pot, combine the chicken broth, Rice-a-Roni Rice Pilaf (including the seasoning packet), chopped broccoli, shredded carrots, and diced onion.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the vegetables are cooked.
3. Stir in the cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, and softened cream cheese. Mix well until the cream cheese is fully incorporated and the soup becomes creamy.
4. Continue to cook the soup on low heat for an additional 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the soup is heated through and the flavors have melded together.
5. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more salt, pepper, or seasoning if desired.
6. Serve hot, and enjoy this hearty and comforting soup!

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes approximately 6-8 servings. The total preparation and cooking time is about 30-40 minutes, making it a quick and easy meal.

Variations

• Add More Veggies: You can add more vegetables like peas, corn, or bell peppers for added color and nutrition.
• Spicy Twist: For a spicy version, add some red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or a diced jalapeño to the soup.
• Cheese Lovers: Stir in some shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese for extra cheesiness and flavor.
• Herb Variation: Add fresh or dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley to elevate the flavor of the soup.
• Gluten-Free Version: For a gluten-free version, replace the Rice-a-Roni with gluten-free rice or a gluten-free rice pilaf mix.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the soup on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also reheat individual servings in the microwave for 1-2 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

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

Can I use a different type of soup?

If you don’t have cream of chicken soup, you can substitute it with cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup for a different flavor profile.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, this soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors will continue to develop as it sits, making it even more delicious the next day.

Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, this soup freezes well! Let it cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove.

Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Yes, rotisserie chicken is a great option for this soup. Just shred the chicken and add it to the soup when instructed.

Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

Yes, you can use low-fat cream cheese as a substitute to reduce the fat content of the soup, but keep in mind that the texture may be slightly different.

How can I make this soup thicker?

If you prefer a thicker soup, you can stir in a slurry of cornstarch and water (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water) to the soup and cook for a few minutes until it thickens.

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make this soup in a slow cooker. Combine all the ingredients except for the cream cheese and chicken, and cook on low for 4-6 hours. Stir in the cream cheese and chicken during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

How can I add more flavor to this soup?

To add more flavor, try adding additional seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, or a splash of soy sauce. Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley can also enhance the taste.

Can I use a different type of rice?

If you don’t have Rice-a-Roni, you can substitute it with regular rice or a different rice pilaf mix. You may need to adjust the cooking time based on the type of rice you use.

Conclusion

Rice-a-Roni Chicken Soup is an easy, creamy, and flavorful dish that brings together simple ingredients into a satisfying meal. With its comforting base of chicken broth, cream cheese, and Rice-a-Roni, along with fresh vegetables and chicken, this soup is perfect for a cozy dinner. It’s quick to make, customizable, and sure to become a go-to recipe for busy weeknights. Whether you’re looking for a warm and hearty meal or something to feed the family, this soup is the ultimate comfort food!

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