Creamy Chicken & Rice Soup

With these cold days we've been having here in Chicago, it was time to pull out the big pot and make a batch of creamy chicken & rice soup. This is one of my families favorite soup that I make. Not only is it Oh so yummy but quick and easy. With a family of 8 this is what I need :)

Ingredients:

1/4 cup olive oil
1/4 cup butter
2 stalks of celery chopped
2 large carrots chopped
1 large onion chopped
1 cup of flour
14 cups of chicken broth
1 tbsp dried parsley
1 tbsp dried thyme
1 tbsp dried rosemary
1 bay leaf
3 cups of cooked/ chopped chicken
    ( I personally like grilled)
3/4 cups of uncooked rice
1 cup heavy cream
salt & pepper

Directions:
Melt the butter and oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add and cook your celery, carrots and onion until translucent. Add flour to your soft vegetables and cook flour mixture for about two minutes. Don't forget to stir :)
Gradually pour in your broth a little at a time and whisk constantly to prevent lumps. Once all your broth is in the pot then add your parsley, thyme, rosemary and bay leaf. Bring this to a light boil. Once at a light boil add your rice. Cook uncovered until rice is done. Please make sure to stir often to prevent rice from sticking to the bottom of the pot. When the rice is done you can add your cooked/ chopped chicken and heavy cream. Give the soup a taste and add any necessary salt and pepper to your liking.

Serves 10-12