There’s nothing more comforting than a hearty bowl of soup, especially when it’s packed with flavors that warm you from the inside out. This Chicken and Rice Soup offers a satisfying meal in a bowl, blending tender chunks of chicken with fragrant herbs, fresh vegetables, and perfectly cooked rice. Not only is it quick and easy to prepare, but it also makes for a filling and nutritious dish that can stand on its own or be paired with a slice of crusty bread or a refreshing garden salad.
This soup comes together in just about 30 minutes, making it the perfect weeknight meal for busy families or anyone looking for a wholesome dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. The rich and savory broth, combined with the light and fluffy rice, creates a cozy and balanced dish that’s both comforting and delicious. Whether you’re serving it to the whole family or preparing it for yourself, this Chicken and Rice Soup is a reliable recipe to keep on hand.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 ribs celery, chopped
- 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme leaves
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 bay leaves
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice (such as jasmine or basmati)
- 2 1/2 cups diced cooked chicken (store-bought rotisserie chicken works great)
- Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish
Instructions:
- Sauté the Vegetables
Start by melting the butter in a Dutch oven or a large stockpot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, celery, and carrots to the pot. Sauté the vegetables for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes translucent and the celery softens. The vegetables should begin to release their natural sweetness and add depth to the soup’s flavor. - Add Garlic and Seasonings
Once the vegetables are softened, lower the heat to low. Add the minced garlic, dried parsley, dried thyme, and freshly ground black pepper to the pot. Stir everything together and cook for another minute, allowing the garlic to become fragrant. This step is crucial for infusing the soup with aromatic flavors. - Simmer the Soup
Now it’s time to bring in the liquid. Pour in the chicken broth and add the bay leaves. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally. Once the broth is boiling, add the rice, cover the pot, and reduce the heat to low. Let the soup simmer for 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the flavors have melded together. - Add Chicken and Final Seasoning
After 20 minutes, remove the bay leaves from the soup, as they can be tough and have sharp edges. Stir in the cooked chicken, and let it heat through for a few minutes. Season the soup with kosher salt and additional black pepper to taste. For extra flavor, garnish with fresh parsley or thyme just before serving.
Pro Tips for Success:
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: If you’re short on time, using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut. It adds a smoky, savory flavor that enhances the overall taste of the soup. Alternatively, you can poach boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a fresher option.
- Customize Your Spices: If you love a little heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a small amount of Cajun seasoning to the soup. The heat will complement the earthy flavors of the vegetables and herbs. You can also experiment with adding dried oregano or basil to further customize the flavor profile.
- Adjust for Leftovers: If you plan to save some soup for later, remember that rice absorbs liquid as it sits. To avoid your soup becoming too thick upon reheating, set aside a portion of the broth before adding the rice. You can then add the uncooked rice to the reserved broth when reheating on the stovetop, ensuring the soup stays at the right consistency.
Nutrition Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 274 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Protein: 22g
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 54mg
- Sodium: 179mg
- Potassium: 508mg
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 3g
- Vitamin A: 5308 IU
- Vitamin C: 4mg
- Calcium: 45mg
- Iron: 3mg
Why You’ll Love This Chicken and Rice Soup
This Chicken and Rice Soup has everything you need for a satisfying meal: protein from the chicken, fiber from the vegetables, and wholesome grains from the rice. The blend of herbs creates a fragrant, flavorful broth that is both rich and comforting. It’s a great recipe for families looking for a balanced meal that is both easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying.
Additionally, this soup is naturally versatile. You can add extra vegetables like peas or spinach, or even swap the rice for quinoa for a gluten-free option. The beauty of this recipe is that it can be customized to fit your preferences, making it a go-to choice for anyone who loves a comforting, home-cooked meal.
Whether you’re trying to feed a hungry crowd or prepping a weeknight dinner, this Chicken and Rice Soup will quickly become a favorite in your household. The best part is that it stores well in the fridge, so you can enjoy the leftovers for lunch or dinner the next day. It’s a meal that is not only nutritious and delicious but also easy to make, making it perfect for any occasion.
Conclusion :
There’s something undeniably cozy about a bowl of Chicken and Rice Soup. It’s a recipe that offers the perfect balance of flavors while being simple to prepare. Whether you’re new to cooking or an experienced home chef, this soup is a fantastic dish that guarantees comfort, nutrition, and satisfaction in every spoonful. From the first warm bite to the last, this soup has all the makings of a family favorite—one that will be passed down through generations.
Now that you know how to make this delicious Chicken and Rice Soup, it’s time to gather the ingredients and start cooking. With its hearty, flavorful base and endless customization options, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe over and over again, especially on chilly evenings when you need a little extra warmth. Enjoy!
