This cozy Chicken and Rice Soup is like a warm hug in a bowl! Packed with tender chicken, fluffy rice, and tasty veggies, it’s perfect for chilly days or when you need a pick-me-up.
Who doesn’t love a soup that’s both comforting and easy to make? I whip it up in no time, and it’s great for lunch or dinner. Leftovers? Not a chance when I’m around! 😂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: I love using olive oil for its wonderful flavor. If you don’t have it, you can substitute with vegetable oil or butter for a richer taste.
Onions: They add great depth to the soup. If you prefer a milder flavor, use shallots instead. Yellow onions work best for their sweetness.
Carrots & Celery: These veggies are classic in soups for their flavor and texture. If you’re out of celery, you can skip it or add bell peppers for a different taste.
Chicken Broth: Homemade broth is amazing, but store-bought works perfectly too. You can also use vegetable broth for a lighter soup.
Cooked Chicken: Rotisserie chicken is a lifesaver! If you’re vegetarian, consider using chickpeas or tofu as a protein alternative.
Rice: White rice is traditional here, but brown rice is a healthier option. Just remember, it may require a bit more cooking time.
How Do I Get the Vegetables Just Right?
The first step is sautéing your vegetables to bring out their best flavors. Here are my tips:
- Start with a large pot and heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add onions, carrots, and celery and cook for 5-7 minutes until they soften. Stir occasionally to avoid sticking.
- Add minced garlic in the last minute of cooking the vegetables to release its aroma without burning.
Following these steps will ensure your veggies enhance the soup’s flavor beautifully!
How to Make the Best Chicken and Rice Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Soup:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works well)
- 1 cup uncooked white rice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious chicken and rice soup will take about 10 minutes of preparation time and around 30 minutes to cook. In total, you will be enjoying this warm and comforting meal in just about 40 minutes!
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 hot, add the diced onion, sliced carrots, and sliced celery. Sauté these for about 5-7 minutes, or until the veggies are softened. You’ll know they are ready when the onion turns a nice translucent color!
2. Add Garlic:
Next, add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for another minute. Stir it often since garlic can burn quickly. You want to cook it just until it’s fragrant!
3. Combine the Broth and Chicken:
Pour in the chicken broth and stir in the dried thyme, dried parsley, and shredded cooked chicken. It’s starting to smell amazing, right? Bring this mixture to a boil. Keep an eye on it—you don’t want it to boil over!
4. Cooking the Rice:
Once it’s boiling, gently stir in the uncooked white rice. Now, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a lid, and let it simmer. Cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender. Give it a stir occasionally, but be careful not to lift the lid too often!
5. Season the Soup:
After the rice is cooked, season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Don’t be shy—taste it as you go to find the perfect flavor!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Your hearty chicken and rice soup is ready! Serve it hot, and for a lovely touch, sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley on top for garnish. Enjoy your warm bowl of goodness!
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Yes, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time! Brown rice takes longer to cook than white rice, so add it to the broth and cook for about 35-40 minutes before adding the chicken. Check for tenderness, and then add the cooked chicken and seasonings.
How Can I Make This Soup Creamy?
If you prefer a creamy chicken and rice soup, stir in 1 cup of heavy cream or half-and-half just before serving. Allow it to heat through for a few minutes without boiling to keep the cream from curdling.
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth and skip the cooked chicken. You can add in extra vegetables or even beans for added protein. Just make sure to adjust spices to enhance the flavor!
How Do I Store Leftover Chicken and Rice Soup?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The rice may absorb some of the broth as it sits, so you might want to add a bit of water or broth when reheating to get the consistency you like.
