Chicken and Rice Soup

A Comforting Bowl of Soulful Flavors
This Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup is the ultimate comfort food—a rich, hearty, and flavorful dish perfect for any occasion. Packed with tender chicken, fragrant herbs, and a creamy broth, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. This dish combines the warmth of soul food with a hint of Creole spice.

Ingredients:

• 1 Sazon packet
• 2 tsp Creole seasoning
• 2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• 2 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 small onion, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 stalks celery, diced
• 2 large carrots, diced
• 1 1/2 tbsp flour
• 7 cups chicken broth
• Thyme, rosemary, sage (to taste)
• 1 tbsp chopped basil
• 2 tbsp chopped parsley
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups white rice
• 2 tsp adobo seasoning
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1 tsp crushed red pepper

Ingredients:

1. Season the Chicken
   Generously coat chicken thighs with Creole seasoning, smoked paprika, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder. Set aside to infuse flavors.
2. Sear the Chicken
   Heat a large pan over medium heat. Sear the seasoned chicken thighs until browned on both sides. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Sauté the Veggies
   In the same pan, sauté diced celery, carrots, garlic, and onion. Stir frequently until the vegetables are fragrant and softened.
4. Build the Base
   Sprinkle in the flour and cook for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly to create a roux. Slowly add the chicken broth, whisking to prevent lumps.
5. Simmer with Herbs
   Add basil, parsley, sage, thyme, rosemary, and the seared chicken thighs back into the pan. Let it simmer on low heat for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
6. Shred the Chicken
   Remove the chicken thighs, shred the meat, and set aside for later.
7. Cook the Rice
   Stir 2 cups of white rice into the soup and let it simmer for 20 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and tender.
8. Add Cream and Chicken
   Return the shredded chicken to the pot and pour in the heavy cream. Stir well to combine.
9. Season to Taste
   Adjust the flavors by seasoning the soup with 2 tsp adobo, 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper, and 1 tsp crushed red pepper for a gentle kick.

This recipe was crafted by Kiana Gray known for blending soulful and savory dishes with a modern twist. Follow her on Instagram for more culinary inspiration and to explore her delicious creations @_cookingwithkiana!