This warm Chicken and Rice Soup is like a cozy hug in a bowl! Tender chicken and fluffy rice swim in a rich, savory broth that’s perfect for chilly days or when you need a pick-me-up.
The best part? It’s super easy to make! Just toss everything into a pot and let it simmer. I love adding a sprinkle of parsley on top for a little color—makes it look fancy without the fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: This adds a nice flavor and helps cook the veggies. If you’re out of it, you can use vegetable oil or butter instead. For a heartier flavor, try using sesame oil.
Chicken Broth: Low sodium is great for controlling salt, but if you need a substitute, vegetable broth or homemade broth works too. You can even use water, but it may lack depth—consider adding extra herbs in that case!
Cooked Chicken: Rotisserie chicken is a convenient option that packs flavor. If you want a vegetarian version, you can swap chicken for chickpeas or tofu for protein!
Rice: I recommend long-grain or jasmine rice for this recipe. If you prefer brown rice, just adjust the cooking time, as it will take longer to get tender. Quinoa can also be a great alternative!
Herbs: Dried parsley and thyme add great flavor. If you don’t have thyme, feel free to use oregano or basil instead. Fresh herbs would also enhance the taste, so consider them if available!
How Do You Cook the Perfect Chicken and Rice Soup?
Cooking chicken and rice soup is super simple, but there are a few things to keep in mind for the best results!
- Sautéing Onions and Veggies: Always start by sautéing your onion, celery, and carrots to release their flavors. This step is crucial and only takes a few minutes.
- Avoid Overcooking Rice: Rice can easily overcook and turn mushy. Make sure to keep an eye on it and add cooked chicken only towards the end to prevent it from becoming dry.
- Season Gradually: Start with salt and pepper sparingly, then add more as needed. It’s always easier to add than to remove!
- Add Fresh Garnish: Topping the soup with fresh parsley just before serving adds a pop of color and freshness that lifts the flavors.
How to Make Chicken and Rice Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2-3 stalks celery, diced
- 2 large carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups chicken broth (preferably low sodium)
- 1 ½ cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped
- 1 cup uncooked white rice (long grain or jasmine)
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Chicken and Rice Soup takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 30 minutes to cook. Altogether, you will need roughly 40 minutes from start to finish, perfect for a quick weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is warm, add the diced onion, celery, and carrots. Sauté them for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are softened and just starting to become fragrant. This is where all that flavor begins!
2. Add Garlic:
Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute. This will make your kitchen smell amazing! Be careful not to burn the garlic; we just want it to be fragrant.
3. Pour in the Broth:
Now, it’s time to add the chicken broth to the pot. Pour it in and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Watch it closely, as it can come to a boil quickly!
4. Add Rice and Seasonings:
When the broth is boiling, add the uncooked rice, dried parsley, and thyme if you’re using it. Lower the heat and let the soup simmer for about 15-20 minutes. This will cook the rice and let all of those delicious flavors mix together!
5. Stir in the Chicken:
After the rice is tender, stir in the cooked chicken. Allow it to simmer for an additional 5 minutes to heat it all the way through. Your kitchen will be coming alive with scents!
6. Taste and Adjust:
Give your soup a taste and season it with salt and black pepper according to your preference. Everyone enjoys their soup a little differently, so adjust the flavor to your liking!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, ladle the warm soup into bowls and garnish with some freshly chopped parsley. Not only does it add a lovely touch, but it brightens the dish. Your comforting Chicken and Rice Soup is ready to be enjoyed!
This classic Chicken and Rice Soup features tender pieces of chicken, soft cooked rice, and a medley of vegetables in a clear, flavorful broth. It’s comforting, easy to prepare, and perfect for a nutritious meal!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just ensure to thaw the frozen chicken in the fridge overnight before using it in the soup. You can also cook it directly in the broth if you prefer—simply increase the cooking time until fully cooked.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove or in the microwave. You may need to add a little extra broth or water since the rice tends to absorb moisture as it sits.
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! This soup actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just prepare it as directed, let it cool, and store it in the fridge. Reheat it slowly when you’re ready to serve.
What Can I Substitute for Rice?
If you’re looking for alternatives, quinoa or barley can be great substitutes! Just remember that cooking times may vary, so adjust accordingly. For a low-carb option, you can also add cauliflower rice instead.
