Easy Chicken and Rice Soup Recipe

Name: Easy Chicken and Rice Soup Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 medium onion, chopped small; 3 sticks celery, chopped small; 3 medium carrots, peeled & sliced thin; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 6 uncooked chicken thighs (boneless, skinless); 8 cups chicken broth (two 32 oz cartons); 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1 cup long grain white rice (e.g., jasmine); Salt & pepper to taste; 1-2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Jump to Recipe

Chicken and Rice Soup is a comforting, hearty meal that can be prepared in just 35 minutes. Perfect for chilly days or when you’re craving a cozy dish, this homemade soup is a family favorite. Packed with tender chicken, savory broth, and soft rice, it’s a wholesome dish that warms both body and soul. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or simply in need of a quick and delicious meal, this recipe is sure to satisfy.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken and Rice Soup

This Chicken and Rice Soup is a go-to comfort food. It’s not only quick and easy to make, but it’s also a great way to use up simple, healthy ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. With minimal prep and an all-in-one cooking method, it’s ideal for busy weeknights or when you’re craving a no-fuss, home-cooked meal. The rich, flavorful broth combined with the tenderness of the chicken and the softness of the rice makes every spoonful comforting.

Ingredients for Chicken and Rice Soup

Here are the key ingredients needed for this easy Chicken and Rice Soup:

• Olive oil: Used for sautéing vegetables and adding a subtle richness.
• Onion: A flavor base that adds sweetness and depth to the broth.
• Celery: Provides a mild, fresh crunch that complements the other vegetables.
• Carrots: Sweet and tender, these add both flavor and color.
• Garlic: Adds a fragrant and aromatic note to the soup.
• Chicken thighs: Boneless and skinless thighs are used for their juicy and flavorful meat, making the soup more tender.
• Chicken broth: The base of the soup that creates a rich, comforting flavor.
• Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs such as rosemary and thyme that infuse the soup with a savory, aromatic essence.
• Rice: Long grain white rice like jasmine or basmati, which adds texture and helps thicken the broth.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning the soup to taste.
• Fresh parsley: Optional, but adds a bright, fresh touch at the end.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions

If you’re looking to customize the Chicken and Rice Soup for dietary preferences, here are some substitutions:

• Brown rice: A healthier alternative, though it will take longer to cook and may require more liquid.
• Chicken breasts: If you prefer leaner meat, boneless skinless chicken breasts work as well.
• Rotisserie chicken: If you’re short on time, pre-cooked chicken can be added for convenience. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure the chicken is heated through.
• Vegetable broth: For a vegetarian version, replace chicken broth with vegetable broth.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Chicken and Rice Soup

Follow these easy steps to make your delicious Chicken and Rice Soup:

Prepare the ingredients: Chop the onion, celery, and carrots into small pieces. Mince the garlic.
Sauté the vegetables: In a large soup pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion and celery and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
Add the main ingredients: To the pot, add the chicken thighs, sliced carrots, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, and rice. Bring to a boil.
Simmer: Once the soup comes to a boil, reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes. Check the rice and vegetables for doneness. The chicken should be fully cooked and tender.
Shred the chicken: Remove the chicken thighs from the soup. Shred the meat using two forks and return it to the pot.
Season the soup: Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper.
Serve: If using, add fresh parsley before serving for an added burst of flavor.

Tips & Tricks for Perfect Chicken and Rice Soup

Here are some tips to help make your Chicken and Rice Soup even better:

Don’t overcook the rice: If you prefer your rice less mushy, keep an eye on the cooking time. The longer you cook it, the softer the rice will become.
Make ahead: This soup keeps well in the fridge for up to a couple of days. If you’re planning to store leftovers, you may want to cook the rice separately to avoid it soaking up too much broth.
Freezing: This soup can be frozen without the rice. Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When you reheat, add fresh rice to avoid it becoming too soggy.
Add a citrus twist: For a zesty kick, add a tablespoon or more of fresh lemon juice just before serving.

Pairing Ideas and Variations for Chicken and Rice Soup

Chicken and Rice Soup is a hearty meal on its own, but you can elevate it with these pairing ideas:

• Crusty bread: Serve with a side of sourdough or a baguette for dipping.
• Cheesy garlic bread: For extra comfort, serve alongside a slice of cheesy garlic bread.
• Green salad: Pair the soup with a simple mixed green salad, drizzled with creamy balsamic dressing for a balanced meal.
• Spicy variation: Add some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy twist.

If you plan to serve this soup on a chilly evening, the warmth and heartiness of this dish will surely satisfy everyone’s appetite.

Health Benefits of Chicken and Rice Soup

Chicken and Rice Soup is not only comforting, but it also has several health benefits:

• Protein-rich: The chicken provides a high-quality source of protein, supporting muscle repair and immune function.
• Packed with veggies: Celery, carrots, and onions add important vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin A and antioxidants.
• Easily digestible: This soup is gentle on the stomach, making it an ideal option for those feeling under the weather.
• Low in fat: By using boneless, skinless chicken thighs or chicken breasts, you can keep the soup light without sacrificing flavor.

Chicken and Rice Soup is a nutritious, cozy meal that you can enjoy year-round. Whether you’re recovering from a cold or simply looking for a satisfying dinner, this recipe is the perfect solution for both health and comfort.

Conclusion

Chicken and Rice Soup is the perfect comforting meal that combines tender chicken, savory broth, and soft rice into a bowl of warmth and satisfaction. Whether you’re serving it to your family on a busy weekday, or you’re in need of a simple yet hearty dish to warm you up on a cold evening, this recipe delivers both flavor and convenience. It’s versatile, easy to make, and can easily be customized to fit your preferences. With simple ingredients and an easy cooking method, you can enjoy this cozy soup in just 35 minutes. Try it today and enjoy the warmth and comfort it brings!

FAQ

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice for Chicken and Rice Soup?

Yes, you can use brown rice in place of white rice. However, brown rice will take longer to cook, and you may need to add more broth to compensate for the longer cooking time. If you’re using brown rice, consider cooking it separately and adding it to the soup right before serving to maintain the texture of the rice.

Can I make Chicken and Rice Soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make Chicken and Rice Soup ahead of time. In fact, it often tastes even better the next day as the flavors have had time to meld. If you’re planning to store leftovers, it’s recommended to cook the rice separately and add it when you reheat the soup. This prevents the rice from absorbing too much broth and becoming too mushy.

How can I make this soup spicier?

If you like your Chicken and Rice Soup with a bit of heat, try adding crushed red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or a diced jalapeño during cooking. Adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving can also enhance the flavor and give the soup a zesty kick.

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