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If you’re craving a heartwarming bowl that feels like a hug from the inside out, this Chicken and Rice Soup Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a timeless classic, made with simple, wholesome ingredients that combine to create a broth bursting with flavor, tender bits of chicken, and comforting rice. Whether you’re nursing a cold, looking for a nourishing weeknight dinner, or simply want to cozy up with a satisfying meal, this soup brings it all together in the most delightful way.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Chicken and Rice Soup Recipe is straightforward yet essential, contributing layers of texture, taste, and a splash of color that makes the dish inviting and delicious. These basics come together seamlessly to make a soup you’ll want to have again and again.
- Olive oil: Adds a smooth, fruity base for sautéing and enhances flavor without overpowering.
- Onion: Provides a subtle sweetness and aromatic depth when cooked gently.
- Garlic: Brings a bold, savory punch to the mix, boosting overall warmth.
- Carrots: Sweetness and a slight crunch balance the soup’s texture beautifully.
- Celery: Adds a fresh, crisp bite that complements the softer ingredients perfectly.
- Dried thyme: Infuses the broth with a gentle earthiness and herbal nuance.
- Dried oregano: Offers complexity and a touch of Mediterranean flair.
- Chicken broth: The soul of the soup, delivering rich, savory flavor as the base.
- Long-grain white rice: Absorbs the broth’s taste and creates the perfect comforting texture.
- Cooked, shredded chicken: Adds protein and heartiness that’ll keep you satisfied.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning—making every flavor pop just right.
- Fresh parsley: A final touch of color and freshness that brightens each spoonful.
How to Make Chicken and Rice Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once warm, add your chopped onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent and fragrant. This gentle sauté lays the flavorful foundation you’ll notice with every spoonful.
Step 2: Build Flavor with Vegetables and Herbs
Next, toss in the minced garlic, sliced carrots, and celery. Cook everything together for another 5 minutes to let the vibrant aromas mingle and soften the veggies. Then sprinkle in dried thyme and oregano, stirring well to release their calming herbal scents into the mix.
Step 3: Add Broth and Bring to a Boil
Pour the chicken broth into the pot, giving a good stir before bringing the whole pot to a lively boil. This step wakes up all the layers of flavor and prepares the soup for its comforting base.
Step 4: Cook the Rice
Add the long-grain white rice, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Let the rice cook anywhere from 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s tender and perfectly soaked in all that delicious broth goodness.
Step 5: Mix in the Chicken
Now, fold in the shredded cooked chicken, stirring it nicely into the soup so it heats through completely and becomes one with the flavors. This step transforms your soup into a fulfilling, protein-rich meal.
Step 6: Final Seasoning and Simmer
Season your soup with salt and black pepper to suit your taste buds. After adjusting the seasoning, let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes to meld all the flavors harmoniously.
Step 7: Freshen With Parsley
Just before serving, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the soup and stir gently. This adds a refreshing burst of color and a subtle herbal brightness that lifts the entire dish.
How to Serve Chicken and Rice Soup Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley is classic, but feel free to get creative! A dash of freshly cracked black pepper, a squeeze of lemon juice for a zesty lift, or even a few grated Parmesan shavings can elevate your bowl beautifully.
Side Dishes
This Chicken and Rice Soup Recipe stands wonderfully on its own but pairs perfectly with crusty bread, warm dinner rolls, or a light green salad. The crispness of a salad or the crunch of toasted bread balances the comforting softness of the soup.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming twist, serve this soup in a hollowed-out bread bowl or garnish with a swirl of cream or yogurt. You can also top it with crispy fried shallots or toasted almonds for added texture that surprises and delights.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the freshness by stirring the soup before reheating to evenly distribute the flavors.
Freezing
If you want to save your Chicken and Rice Soup Recipe for later, freezing is a great option. Transfer the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers and it will keep well for up to 3 months, ready to warm you up whenever needed.
Reheating
Reheat gently over low heat on the stove or microwave in short bursts to prevent the rice from overcooking or becoming mushy. Add a splash of broth or water if the soup has thickened too much during storage.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice adds a nuttier flavor and extra fiber, but keep in mind it requires longer cooking, so adjust your simmer time accordingly to ensure it’s fully tender.
Is it possible to make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can start by sautéing the aromatics, then transfer all ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours. Add the rice during the last 30-40 minutes to avoid it turning mushy.
Can I use leftover roast chicken for this recipe?
Definitely! Using leftover cooked chicken is a fantastic way to add flavor and protein without extra work. Just shred it before adding to the soup.
What if I want a creamier soup?
You can stir in a splash of cream or coconut milk at the end for a richer texture. Just add it after removing the soup from the heat to prevent curdling.
How do I make this soup dairy-free?
This Chicken and Rice Soup Recipe is naturally dairy-free unless you choose to add cream as a finishing touch. Simply omit any dairy and enjoy it as-is for a wholesome, allergy-friendly option.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken and Rice Soup Recipe is truly one of those timeless dishes that never fail to comfort and satisfy. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and wonderfully adaptable to whatever you have on hand. Give it a try—your family, friends, and taste buds will thank you for bringing this cozy classic to your table.
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Chicken and Rice Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This hearty Chicken and Rice Soup is a comforting and nourishing one-pot meal, perfect for chilly days or when you need a wholesome, satisfying dish. Tender shredded chicken, wholesome vegetables, and fluffy rice meld together in a flavorful chicken broth seasoned with herbs, creating a classic homemade soup that’s easy to prepare and full of cozy flavors.
Ingredients
Soup Base
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Main Ingredients
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Heat olive oil: Warm the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat to prepare for sautéing the vegetables.
- Sauté onions: Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent, bringing out its sweetness.
- Add garlic and vegetables: Stir in the minced garlic, sliced carrots, and celery, cooking for an additional 5 minutes until tender and fragrant.
- Season with herbs: Sprinkle in the dried thyme and oregano, stirring to evenly combine the herbs with the vegetables for a robust flavor base.
- Add broth and bring to boil: Pour in the chicken broth and increase heat to bring the soup mixture to a rolling boil.
- Cook rice: Stir in the long-grain white rice, reduce heat to a simmer, and cook for about 15-20 minutes until the rice is tender and fully cooked.
- Add chicken: Incorporate the shredded cooked chicken into the pot and stir well to combine with the rice and broth.
- Season to taste: Add salt and black pepper, adjusting seasoning according to your preference.
- Simmer to heat through: Let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes to ensure the chicken is heated thoroughly and flavors meld.
- Finish with parsley: Stir in fresh chopped parsley just before serving to add a fresh, vibrant flavor and appealing color.
Notes
- Use cooked chicken from leftovers or rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- For a gluten-free version, ensure chicken broth is gluten-free.
- Long-grain white rice works best, but you may substitute with brown rice, adjusting cook time accordingly.
- Leftover soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or can be frozen for longer storage.
- Adjust thickness by adding more broth if desired.
