Experience the heartwarming embrace of our Chicken and Rice Soup—a comforting blend of tender chicken, wholesome vegetables, and perfectly cooked rice. This soul-soothing soup is not just a meal; it’s a cozy hug in a bowl, perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you need a nourishing pick-me-up.
The inspiration behind this Chicken and Rice Soup stems from cherished family moments, where the aroma of simmering soup on the stove brings everyone together. Picture a scene of shared laughter and warmth as bowls are filled with this delicious concoction, creating memories that linger long after the last spoonful.
Why You’ll Love Chicken and Rice Soup:
- Hearty and Wholesome: Packed with succulent chicken, nutritious vegetables, and rice, this soup is a complete and fulfilling meal.
- Flavorful Broth: The savory broth, infused with aromatic herbs and spices, forms the soul of this soup, offering a rich and savory backdrop to every spoonful.
- Versatile Comfort: Whether you’re under the weather or simply seeking a comforting meal, this Chicken and Rice Soup is a versatile remedy for all occasions.
Ingredients Notes For Chicken and Rice Soup:
- Chicken: Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts for a quick and easy preparation. Rotisserie chicken works well too.
- Vegetables: A classic combination of carrots, celery, and onion imparts depth and sweetness to the soup.
- Rice: Long-grain white rice is preferred for its ability to cook evenly and maintain a pleasant texture.
Recipe Steps:
- Sauté Aromatics: Begin by sautéing onions, carrots, and celery in a pot until softened, releasing their natural flavors.
- Add Chicken and Broth: Introduce chicken pieces to the pot, followed by aromatic herbs and spices. Pour in chicken broth to create a robust and flavorful base.
- Simmer to Perfection: Allow the soup to simmer gently until the chicken is cooked through and the flavors meld together.
- Cook Rice Separately: Cook rice separately according to package instructions to ensure it retains its ideal texture.
- Combine and Serve: Once the rice is ready, add it to the soup pot. Adjust seasoning if needed, and ladle this heartwarming Chicken and Rice Soup into bowls.
Storage Options:
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth if needed to maintain the soup’s consistency.
Variations & Substitutions:
Feel free to customize this soup by adding your favorite herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, or incorporating different vegetables like peas or spinach. For a heartier version, swap white rice with wild rice or quinoa.
Indulge in the warmth and nourishment of our Chicken and Rice Soup—a timeless recipe that brings comfort to every spoonful.
Easy Homemade Chicken and Rice Soup Recipe
Ingredients
For the Soup Base:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Chicken and Rice:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
- 1 cup long-grain white rice, cooked
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
- Lemon wedges for serving (optional)
Instructions
Soup Base:
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add finely chopped onion, diced carrots, and diced celery. Sauté until the vegetables are softened.
- Add minced garlic and continue to sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Pour in chicken broth, add a bay leaf, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to simmer. Allow it to simmer for 15-20 minutes.
Chicken and Rice:
- In a separate pot, cook long-grain white rice according to package instructions. Set aside.
- Cook the boneless, skinless chicken breasts by grilling, baking, or boiling. Once cooked, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- Add the shredded chicken and cooked rice to the simmering soup base. Allow it to simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Adjust seasoning if necessary and remove the bay leaf.
Final Steps:
- Ladle the Chicken and Rice Soup into bowls.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side, if desired.
- Enjoy this comforting Chicken and Rice Soup, savoring the combination of tender chicken, wholesome rice, and aromatic vegetables in a nourishing broth.