Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThere’s something truly magical about the aroma of Chicken and Rice Soup wafting through the house, wrapping you in a warm embrace. This comforting, one-pot meal combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a medley of veggies into a rich, savory broth that’s perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend treat. What I love most about this recipe is how it’s not only quick to prepare but also incredibly versatile with endless substitution options—making it friendly for everyone in the family, including those with dietary restrictions. Imagine swapping a few ingredients to tailor the dish just to your taste! So, are you ready to create a bowl of happiness that warms both heart and soul? Let’s dive into this easy Chicken and Rice Soup recipe together! Why is Chicken and Rice Soup a Must-Try? Comforting warmth in every spoonful, this Chicken and Rice Soup envelops you with its rich, hearty flavors. Endless variations allow you to swap ingredients like chicken cuts or rice types, catering to your tastes. Quick and easy, it comes together in just one pot, perfect for busy nights! Healthy and nutritious, it’s low in fat but high in protein, making it great for the whole family. Want a twist? Pair it with some crusty bread for an unforgettable meal or check out our recipes for Tandoori Chicken Tikka or Sweet Sour Chicken for more culinary adventures! Chicken and Rice Soup Ingredients • Here’s what you need to create this heartwarming dish! For the Soup Base Olive Oil – Adds richness and helps sauté vegetables; you can substitute with vegetable oil for a more neutral flavor. Celery (2 large ribs, chopped) – Provides an aromatic base for flavor; use pre-prepped mirepoix to speed up your prep time. Carrots (2 large, peeled and chopped) – Adds sweetness and texture; feel free to swap for other root vegetables if you prefer. Onion (1 small yellow, chopped) – Enhances the soup’s flavor depth; shallots or green onions work wonderfully too. Garlic (3 cloves, minced) – Infuses aroma and flavor; if fresh isn’t available, ¾ teaspoon of garlic powder will do. For the Soup Essentials Chicken Stock/Broth (5 cups) – Serves as the flavorful base for the soup; choose low-sodium varieties or homemade for the best results. Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breast (1 pound) – Provides protein and shreds easily; thighs can be used for a richer flavor. Long-Grain White Rice (½ cup) – Acts as a thickener, adding body to the soup; brown rice or wild rice can be substituted, keeping in mind the different cooking times. Fresh Thyme (2 teaspoons, plus more for garnish) – Enhances flavor with its aromatic notes; replace with 1 teaspoon of dried thyme if needed. For Seasoning & Garnish Salt (1 teaspoon) – Essential for seasoning to enhance flavors; adjust according to the saltiness of your broth. Ground Black Pepper (½ teaspoon) – Adds heat and complexity; white pepper can be used for a milder taste. Fresh Parsley (for garnish) – Brightens the dish visually and elevates the flavor; you could replace it with basil or tarragon if you prefer. Crafting this Chicken and Rice Soup promises a delightful experience, ensuring your table is filled with cozy vibes and heartwarming flavors! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chicken and Rice Soup Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add 2 large ribs of chopped celery, 2 peeled and chopped carrots, and 1 small chopped onion. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the onions are translucent and the vegetables are slightly softened. Stir in 3 minced garlic cloves and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant. Step 2: Add the Broth Pour 5 cups of chicken stock or broth into the pot, stirring well to combine with the sautéed vegetables. Increase the heat and bring the mixture to a boil, allowing it to bubble energetically for about 2-3 minutes. You’ll see steam rising, which indicates it’s ready for the next step. Step 3: Introduce Chicken and Rice Once the broth is boiling, add in 1 pound of raw boneless, skinless chicken breasts, along with ½ cup of long-grain white rice, 2 teaspoons of fresh thyme, 1 teaspoon of salt, and ½ teaspoon of ground black pepper. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes. The chicken should be cooked through, and the rice tender. Step 4: Shred the Chicken After cooking, carefully remove the chicken breasts from the pot to a cutting board. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. The chicken should be juicy and easy to shred. Return the shredded chicken back into the soup, stirring to incorporate it thoroughly with the rice and broth. Step 5: Garnish and Serve Ladle the warm Chicken and Rice Soup into bowls, garnishing each with fresh parsley and additional thyme for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy this comforting soup immediately while hot, or let it sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld even further. What to Serve with Chicken and Rice Soup? This delightful soup pairs beautifully with a selection of sides that elevate your dining experience and bring comfort to your table. Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping, its chewy texture and warm, toasted exterior complements the soup’s creamy goodness. Garden Salad: A refreshing side, it adds a crisp contrast to the warm soup; a light vinaigrette enhances the experience. Buttery Cornbread: Sweet and savory, its moist crumb offers an inviting warmth that echoes the hearty flavors of the soup. Roasted Vegetables: Featuring seasonal veggies, roasting brings out their natural sweetness, adding layers of flavor to your meal. Cheesy Garlic Biscuits: Flaky and savory, these biscuits provide an indulgent bite that balances the soup’s comforting textures. Fruit Sorbet: A light, fruity finish cleanses the palate after this hearty dish, leaving you feeling refreshed and satisfied. Each pairing enhances the comforting vibe of Chicken and Rice Soup, creating a wholesome dining experience you and your family will adore. Make Ahead Options These comforting Chicken and Rice Soup preps are perfect for busy weeknights! You can chop the vegetables and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container, which saves valuable time when you’re ready to cook. For an even quicker meal, consider cooking the entire soup (without added salt) and refrigerating it for up to 24 hours before serving. This helps the flavors meld beautifully and ensures your soup is just as delicious. To finish, simply reheat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through, adding fresh herbs and seasoning to taste. Enjoy a wholesome meal with minimal effort! How to Store and Freeze Chicken and Rice Soup Fridge: Store any leftover Chicken and Rice Soup in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Allow it to cool completely before sealing to preserve freshness. Freezer: Freeze the soup in individual portions for up to 3 months. Use freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion as it freezes. Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight or use the microwave. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth to restore creaminess. Tip: Always stir well after reheating to ensure even warmth throughout the Chicken and Rice Soup. Chicken and Rice Soup Variations Get creative in the kitchen with these fun and flavorful twists on your Chicken and Rice Soup! Leftover Chicken: Use shredded rotisserie or roasted chicken for a no-fuss meal. This is perfect for those busy weeknights when you want dinner fast. Wild Rice: Swap out white rice for wild rice to enjoy a nuttier flavor and heartier texture. Just be prepared for a slight increase in cooking time! Vegetable Boost: Add more nutrition by incorporating vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach. They not only enhance flavor but also brighten up your soup. Gluten-Free: If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, ensure your broth is certified gluten-free and stick with rice or quinoa. It’s an easy swap that caters to dietary needs without sacrificing taste. Creamy Twist: For a richer base, stir in up to ½ cup of evaporated milk or heavy cream at the end of cooking. This adds a luxurious texture to your beloved soup! Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh herbs like dill or cilantro instead of thyme for a fresh twist. They bring a different flavor profile, making your soup exciting and new. Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the pot for a delightful kick of heat. This will warm you up from the inside out! Flavorful Broth: Instead of standard chicken stock, try using homemade broth or a savory mushroom broth for a unique savory experience. It’s an excellent way to elevate the overall flavor! Feeling inspired? These variations will allow you to serve up a delightful bowl every time, no matter who you’re feeding! You can also explore other delicious options like Indian Butter Chicken and Honey Butter Chicken to keep mealtime exciting! Expert Tips for Chicken and Rice Soup Use Quality Stock: Invest in good-quality chicken stock for the best flavor. Homemade or low-sodium varieties ensure a delicious, balanced broth that’s perfect for your Chicken and Rice Soup. Don’t Overcook Rice: Avoid putting quick-cook rice in your soup as it can turn mushy. Stick to long-grain white rice or wild rice, adjusting cooking times as needed to maintain texture. Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add vegetables like zucchini or leafy greens for added nutrition. Just chop them into small pieces to ensure they cook through in the allotted time. Shred Chicken Easily: Let the chicken sit for a few moments after cooking before shredding. This helps retain the moisture and ensures tender pieces in your Chicken and Rice Soup. Check Seasoning Last: Always taste your soup before serving and adjust salt and pepper accordingly, as broth can vary in saltiness. A well-seasoned soup makes all the difference! Chicken and Rice Soup Recipe FAQs What type of chicken is best for Chicken and Rice Soup? Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken breast is commonly used for its ease of shredding and lean protein. However, I often recommend switching to thighs for a richer flavor. They add moisture and tenderness to the soup! How should I store leftover Chicken and Rice Soup? Very! Store your leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Make sure the soup is cooled completely before placing it in the container. You can enjoy it as warm and comforting as the day you made it! Can I freeze Chicken and Rice Soup? Yes, definitely! To freeze properly, pour the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving room for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to savor it again, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth to maintain that creamy texture. What should I do if my rice becomes mushy in the soup? Oh no! If your rice has turned mushy, it likely means it was overcooked. To prevent this in future batches, remember to use long-grain rice and avoid quick-cooking rice, as it’s prone to becoming too soft. Keep an eye on your cooking time—20-25 minutes is usually perfect for achieving tender rice. Can I customize my Chicken and Rice Soup for dietary restrictions? Absolutely! This recipe is quite versatile. You can easily make it gluten-free by using certified gluten-free chicken broth. Additionally, feel free to swap in any veggies your family loves or has on hand. For those with allergies, check ingredient labels on your broth and seasonings to ensure safety! What’s the best way to tell if my soup is seasoned well? Great question! Always taste your Chicken and Rice Soup before serving. Adjust the salt and pepper according to your preference, as the sodium content in broths can vary widely. A well-seasoned soup should be flavorful without overwhelming the palate, striking that perfect balance that makes each spoonful delightful! Homemade Chicken and Rice Soup for Cozy Nights No ratings yet Chicken and Rice Soup is a comforting and versatile dish that warms heart and soul, perfect for weeknights and family gatherings. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 40 minutes mins Servings: 4 cupsCourse: SoupCuisine: AmericanCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Soup Base2 tablespoons Olive Oil Substitute with vegetable oil if desired.2 large Celery, chopped Use pre-prepped mirepoix to speed up prep.2 large Carrots, peeled and chopped Can swap for other root vegetables.1 small Onion, chopped Shallots or green onions work well.3 cloves Garlic, minced ¾ teaspoon garlic powder can substitute.For the Soup Essentials5 cups Chicken Stock/Broth Choose low-sodium or homemade.1 pound Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breast Thighs can be used for richer flavor.½ cup Long-Grain White Rice Brown rice or wild rice can be substituted.2 teaspoons Fresh Thyme Use 1 teaspoon of dried thyme if needed.For Seasoning & Garnish1 teaspoon Salt Adjust according to broth saltiness.½ teaspoon Ground Black Pepper White pepper can be used for milder taste.1 bunch Fresh Parsley Can replace with basil or tarragon. Equipment large Dutch oven Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Chicken and Rice SoupHeat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chopped celery, carrots, and onion. Sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent and softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.Pour in 5 cups of chicken stock or broth, stirring to combine. Bring to a boil for about 2-3 minutes.Add 1 pound of chicken breasts, ½ cup of rice, 2 teaspoons of thyme, 1 teaspoon of salt, and ½ teaspoon of pepper. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes.Remove chicken, shred it, and return it to the pot, mixing thoroughly.Ladle the soup into bowls, garnishing with parsley and thyme. Serve immediately and enjoy! Nutrition Serving: 1bowlCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 30gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 1.5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 1.5mg NotesThis Chicken and Rice Soup is a versatile recipe that can be easily adjusted for dietary preferences and flavors. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
