Description
This comforting Chicken and Rice Soup is the perfect blend of warmth, nourishment, and homemade flavor. With tender chicken, perfectly cooked rice, and a rich, savory broth, it’s an easy, wholesome recipe ideal for cozy dinners or meal prep.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 2 large carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup uncooked white rice (or substitute brown or wild rice)
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth or stock
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie chicken works well)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley for garnish
- Optional: juice of half a lemon for brightness
Instructions
1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery; sauté for 5 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
2. Add uncooked rice, thyme, and bay leaf. Stir to coat and toast the rice for about a minute until fragrant.
3. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15–20 minutes, until rice is tender.
4. Stir in shredded chicken and simmer for another 5 minutes to warm through. Add a splash of milk or cream if you prefer a creamy texture.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add lemon juice for a bright finish, remove bay leaf, and garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
6. Serve hot with garlic bread or a side salad for a complete, cozy meal.
Notes
For a lighter version, use brown rice or wild rice for extra fiber.
Add spinach for more greens or red pepper flakes for a little heat.
This soup freezes beautifully—just add extra broth when reheating to maintain the perfect consistency.