Chicken and Rice Soup Recipe

If you are looking for a comforting and wholesome dish to warm your soul, this Chicken and Rice Soup Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. It’s a simple yet heartwarming bowl that combines tender shredded chicken, perfectly cooked rice, and a medley of fresh vegetables, all simmered in a flavorful chicken broth. Every spoonful offers a delightful balance of textures and flavors that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy night in or need a dish to impress your family with minimal effort, this recipe hits all the right notes with ease.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Chicken and Rice Soup Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients, each chosen to build layers of flavor and nourishment. These essentials come together to create a soup that’s both vibrant and soothing, grounding the recipe in familiar yet delightful tastes.

• Olive oil: For sautéing the aromatics and adding a smooth richness to the base of the soup.
• Onion: Provides sweetness and depth that enhances the overall flavor profile.
• Garlic: Adds a robust aroma and flavorful punch that elevates every bite.
• Carrots: Lends subtle sweetness and a pop of warm color to brighten the bowl.
• Celery: Adds a pleasant crunch and fresh taste that balances the richness.
• Dried thyme: Offers an earthy, herbal note that complements the chicken perfectly.
• Dried parsley: Brings a splash of freshness to keep the flavors lively.
• Low-sodium chicken broth: Crucial for a flavorful and savory soup base without overpowering saltiness.
• Shredded cooked chicken: Use rotisserie or leftover chicken for tender meat that effortlessly melds into the soup.
• Long-grain white rice: Absorbs the broth and distributes flavors evenly, giving the soup a hearty texture.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing every ingredient together.
• Lemon juice (optional): Adds a touch of acidity that brightens and balances the flavors just before serving.

How to Make Chicken and Rice Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Begin by warming the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until it turns translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes. This step unlocks the natural sweetness of the onions, forming a flavorful foundation for your soup.

Step 2: Add Vegetables and Garlic

Next, toss in the minced garlic, sliced carrots, and diced celery. Stir everything together and let the mixture cook for another 5 minutes. This allows the vegetables to soften and release their fresh, vibrant flavors, enriching the broth’s base.

Step 3: Season with Herbs

Sprinkle the dried thyme and parsley over the vegetables, stirring to combine. Let the herbs cook for about a minute to bloom their aromas and infuse the soup with earthy, herbaceous notes that make the dish extra special.

Step 4: Pour in the Broth

Pour the six cups of low-sodium chicken broth into the pot, making sure to scrape any tasty bits stuck to the bottom. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil, which is essential for melding all your ingredients into a harmonious soup.

Step 5: Add Chicken and Rice

Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and gently stir in the shredded cooked chicken and long-grain white rice. Mixing these in now lets the rice soak up the broth’s rich flavor and allows the chicken to warm through without overcooking.

Step 6: Simmer the Soup

Cover the pot and allow your soup to simmer for about 20 to 25 minutes. During this time, the rice will become tender and plump, and the flavors will meld together beautifully, creating the perfect silky texture.

Step 7: Final Seasoning

Taste your soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to your liking. If you love a subtle citrus brightness, stir in a tablespoon of lemon juice as an optional finishing touch to enhance the dish’s complexity.

Step 8: Rest Before Serving

Remove the soup from heat and let it sit covered for a few minutes. This resting period lets the rice settle and the flavors come together fully, ensuring each spoonful is utterly satisfying.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the steaming hot Chicken and Rice Soup Recipe into bowls and serve immediately. This is the moment to savor the cozy, comforting flavors that make this soup a go-to favorite year-round.

How to Serve Chicken and Rice Soup Recipe

Garnishes

A simple garnish can make your Chicken and Rice Soup Recipe feel like a restaurant-worthy dish. Fresh chopped parsley adds a burst of color and freshness, while a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper can bring out more depth in the bowl. For a touch of creaminess, a small dollop of sour cream or a few shreds of sharp Parmesan cheese work wonderfully.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs beautifully with a variety of sides that complement its comforting nature. Crusty bread or warm garlic rolls are perfect for dipping and soaking up every last drop. A light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can offer a refreshing contrast, balancing the warmth of the soup with crispness and acidity.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to get a little playful, serve the soup in mini bread bowls for a charming rustic presentation. You can also top individual servings with crispy fried onions or a swirl of herb-infused oil for an elegant touch. Adding a wedge of lemon on the side allows each guest to customize their soup’s brightness, making it an interactive meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Chicken and Rice Soup Recipe keeps very well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store it in an airtight container to maintain freshness and avoid absorbing other fridge odors. Give it a good stir before reheating, as the rice tends to settle and thicken the soup.

Freezing

While the soup freezes well, the rice can sometimes change texture after thawing. To counter this, consider freezing the broth and chicken separately from the rice if possible. Freeze in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for up to 2 months, labeling them for easy identification.

Reheating

When reheating, warm the soup gently on the stovetop over medium low heat, stirring frequently. If it’s come out too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the texture. Avoid microwaving for long periods, as this can make the rice gummy and the chicken rubbery.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice in this Chicken and Rice Soup Recipe?

Absolutely! Brown rice adds a nuttier flavor and chewier texture, but keep in mind it requires a longer cooking time, so add it earlier in the simmering process and adjust liquid amounts accordingly.

Is it necessary to use cooked chicken, or can I add raw chicken?

Using cooked chicken, such as rotisserie or leftovers, ensures the meat stays tender and avoids overcooking during the simmer. Raw chicken can be used, but it will need to cook longer, and you might want to cut it into smaller pieces for even cooking.

Can I make this soup vegetarian or vegan?

To make this recipe vegetarian or vegan, substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the chicken, or use a plant-based protein alternative like shredded tofu or chickpeas for added texture.

What if I don’t have dried herbs? Can I use fresh?

Fresh herbs are a wonderful substitute! Use about three times the amount of fresh thyme and parsley as dried since fresh herbs are less concentrated. Add them towards the end of cooking for the best flavor.

Can I prepare this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can! Start by sautéing the aromatics on the stove and then transfer everything to the slow cooker. Add the rice and chicken broth, cooking on low for 4-5 hours or until the rice is tender. Add cooked chicken in the last half hour to keep it tender.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about a homemade bowl of soup that comforts and nourishes like this Chicken and Rice Soup Recipe does. It’s easy to make, wonderfully flavorful, and adaptable, making it a trusty go-to for busy weeknights or whenever you crave a warm meal. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite way to savor chicken and rice!

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