Chicken and Rice Soup

Name: Chicken and Rice Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast, diced; 1 cup rice (white or brown); 4 cups chicken broth; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

A comforting bowl of Chicken and Rice Soup, perfect for chilly days and nourishing the soul.

Created by

Penelope Dawson

Last updated on 2025-12-21T07:45:53.115Z

This Chicken and Rice Soup is a family favorite, filled with tender chicken, fluffy rice, and vibrant vegetables. It’s the perfect remedy for a cold day or when you need a little comfort.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Hearty and filling with a delightful mix of flavors
Easy to make with simple ingredients
Perfect for meal prep or leftovers

      

The Comfort of Chicken Soup

Chicken soup has long been a beloved staple in many households, cherished for its comforting qualities and health benefits. The combination of tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and wholesome rice creates a dish that not only warms you up but also nourishes your body. This Chicken and Rice Soup is particularly perfect for those chilly days when you crave something soothing and satisfying.

The warmth of this soup can evoke nostalgia, reminding us of family gatherings and moments spent together around the dinner table. Whether you are feeling under the weather or simply looking for a comforting meal, this recipe is sure to bring a smile to your face and warmth to your heart.

Versatile and Nutritious

One of the best aspects of Chicken and Rice Soup is its versatility. You can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Feel free to add in your favorite vegetables, such as spinach or peas, for an extra nutritional boost. You can also swap out the chicken for turkey or make it vegetarian by using chickpeas or tofu.

This soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Chicken provides a good source of protein, while the vegetables offer essential vitamins and minerals. Rice adds carbohydrates, making it a well-rounded meal that keeps you full and satisfied for hours.

Perfect for Meal Prep

Another great feature of this Chicken and Rice Soup is its suitability for meal prep. You can easily double or triple the recipe, storing leftovers in the refrigerator or freezer for quick and easy meals throughout the week. Simply reheat portions as needed, and you’ll have a satisfying dish ready to go in no time.

The flavors of the soup can deepen and improve after sitting for a day, making it even more enjoyable as leftovers. This makes it an excellent option for busy weeknights or when you're looking to plan ahead.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make your soup.

Main Ingredients

1 lb chicken breast, diced
1 cup rice (white or brown)
4 cups chicken broth
1 medium onion, chopped
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to have everything prepped for a smooth cooking process!

Cooking Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious soup.

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.

Cook the Chicken

Add the diced chicken to the pot and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.

Add Broth and Rice

Pour in the chicken broth and add the rice, garlic, and thyme. Bring to a boil.

Simmer

Reduce heat and let it simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the soup has thickened slightly.

Season and Serve

Add salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Enjoy your homemade chicken and rice soup!

Tips for the Best Chicken and Rice Soup

To elevate the flavor of your Chicken and Rice Soup, consider using homemade chicken broth if you have the time. It adds depth and richness that store-bought versions may lack. Additionally, be sure to season the soup adequately—tasting and adjusting the salt and pepper at the end is key to achieving a well-balanced dish.

Cooking the rice directly in the soup is a convenient method, but if you prefer your rice on the side, you can prepare it separately to prevent it from becoming too mushy. Just add it to your bowl when serving for a perfect texture.

Serving Suggestions

This Chicken and Rice Soup pairs beautifully with a slice of crusty bread or a fresh garden salad. The crispy texture of the bread complements the creamy soup, while the salad adds a refreshing crunch. Consider drizzling a little olive oil or balsamic vinaigrette over the salad to enhance the flavors.

For those who enjoy a little kick, add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to your bowl just before serving. This adds an extra layer of flavor that can make the dish even more exciting.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store your Chicken and Rice Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it thickens too much. This helps restore the soup's original consistency.

For longer storage, freeze portions of the soup in freezer-safe containers. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy it, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave for a quick meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use leftover chicken?

Yes, leftover chicken works great in this recipe. Just add it towards the end of cooking.

→ How can I make it gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free broth and substitute the rice with quinoa or gluten-free pasta.

→ Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, this soup freezes well. Just be sure to cool it completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.

→ What can I add for more flavor?

Consider adding herbs like rosemary or bay leaves for additional flavor.