Chicken and Rice Soup

Name: Chicken and Rice Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 1 cup white rice; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 cup carrots, diced; 1 cup celery, diced; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Warm up with a comforting bowl of Chicken and Rice Soup, perfect for chilly days or when you need a health boost.

Created by

Celeste Morgan

Last updated on 2025-12-23T04:57:33.607Z

This Chicken and Rice Soup is a family favorite, filled with tender chicken, hearty rice, and vibrant vegetables, offering a nourishing and flavorful experience.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Hearty and satisfying with every spoonful
Packed with protein and nutrients for a healthy meal
Perfect for meal prep or a quick weeknight dinner

      

The Comfort of Homemade Soup

There's something inherently soothing about a warm bowl of homemade soup, especially on chilly days. Chicken and Rice Soup is a classic dish that not only warms your body but also lifts your spirits. Made from wholesome ingredients, this soup is a great way to enjoy the flavors of comfort food without compromising on nutrition. Each spoonful is a reminder of home-cooked goodness, making it an ideal choice for family meals or cozy evenings in.

The beauty of this Chicken and Rice Soup lies in its simplicity. With minimal preparation and cooking time, it's a dish you can whip up even on the busiest weeknights. The combination of tender chicken, fragrant herbs, and hearty vegetables creates a satisfying meal that fills you up and makes you feel good. Plus, the leftovers taste even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep.

Nutritional Benefits

Chicken and Rice Soup is not just delicious; it’s also packed with essential nutrients. Chicken provides a rich source of protein, which is vital for muscle repair and overall health. Alongside the rice, which offers carbohydrates for energy, the soup also includes a variety of vegetables like carrots and celery, which are loaded with vitamins and minerals. This combination makes it a well-rounded meal that supports your health goals.

Additionally, the herbs and spices in the soup, such as thyme and garlic, offer their own health benefits. Thyme is known for its antioxidant properties and can help boost your immune system, while garlic has been linked to improved cardiovascular health. Together, they not only enhance the flavor of the soup but also contribute to your overall well-being.

Versatile and Easy to Customize

One of the best aspects of Chicken and Rice Soup is its versatility. You can easily customize the recipe to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. For instance, if you prefer brown rice or quinoa, feel free to make the switch. You can also add other vegetables like peas or spinach, or even toss in some beans for an extra protein boost. This adaptability makes it a favorite for families with varying tastes.

Moreover, if you're looking to make this soup vegetarian or vegan, simply substitute the chicken with plant-based proteins and use vegetable broth instead. The base recipe remains unchanged, allowing you to create a delicious, hearty soup that everyone can enjoy. No matter how you choose to make it, Chicken and Rice Soup will always be a comforting favorite.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 cup white rice
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup carrots, diced
1 cup celery, diced
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil

Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.

Instructions

Sauté the Vegetables

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

Add Garlic and Seasoning

Stir in the garlic and thyme, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.

Combine Broth and Rice

Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Add the rice, reduce heat, and cover, allowing it to simmer for about 20 minutes.

Add Chicken and Season

Once the rice is cooked, stir in the shredded chicken. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat through for another 5 minutes.

Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Tips for Perfect Soup

To achieve the best flavor and texture in your Chicken and Rice Soup, consider using leftover roast chicken or rotisserie chicken. This not only saves time but also adds a depth of flavor to your soup. Additionally, make sure to sauté the vegetables until they are tender before adding the broth, as this step enhances their natural sweetness and overall taste.

Another helpful tip is to adjust the consistency of your soup to your liking. If you prefer a thicker soup, simply add more rice or let it simmer longer to reduce the liquid. Conversely, if you like a brothier soup, feel free to add extra chicken broth or water as needed.

Storage and Reheating

Storing Chicken and Rice Soup is easy and convenient. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, making it a great option for meal prep. For longer storage, consider freezing the soup in individual portions, which can be reheated as needed.

When it comes to reheating, the best method is to use the stovetop for even heating. Simply add the soup to a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until it’s warmed through. If the soup has thickened during storage, you can add a splash of broth or water to achieve your desired consistency.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time as brown rice takes longer to cook.

→ How can I make this soup gluten-free?

Ensure that your chicken broth is gluten-free and use gluten-free rice.

→ Can I freeze Chicken and Rice Soup?

Yes, it freezes well. Just make sure to leave out the rice if you plan to freeze it, as it can become mushy when reheated.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to add peas, corn, or even spinach for added nutrition and flavor.