Chicken and Rice Soup

Name: Chicken and Rice Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 3 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried parsley; 6 cups chicken broth; 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 1 cup cooked rice; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Warm and comforting, this Chicken and Rice Soup is a hearty meal perfect for chilly days.

Created by

Rebecca Mills

Last updated on 2025-12-22T23:57:31.672Z

This Chicken and Rice Soup is a family favorite that brings comfort and warmth to the table. It's simple to make and packed with flavor, making it a perfect weeknight dinner.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Hearty and satisfying to warm you up
Easy to make with simple ingredients
Perfect for meal prep or a cozy family dinner

      

The Comfort of Homemade Soup

There's something undeniably soothing about a warm bowl of soup, especially on a chilly day. Homemade Chicken and Rice Soup not only warms your body but also your soul. With a delightful combination of tender chicken, hearty rice, and vibrant vegetables, each spoonful is a hug in a bowl. This recipe provides a perfect blend of flavors and textures that remind us of home-cooked meals, making it a cherished addition to your repertoire.

Making soup from scratch allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring that each bite is as nutritious as it is delicious. Unlike store-bought options, which can be loaded with preservatives and sodium, this Chicken and Rice Soup is packed with wholesome ingredients that nourish your body and satisfy your cravings.

Versatile and Adaptable

One of the standout features of this Chicken and Rice Soup is its versatility. You can easily customize the recipe based on what you have on hand. Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or grains; for instance, adding peas or corn can introduce a sweet burst, while quinoa can provide an extra protein punch. This adaptability makes it an excellent choice for using up leftover ingredients, reducing food waste and saving money.

Additionally, if you're looking to make this soup even heartier, consider adding beans or lentils. These ingredients not only enhance the nutritional value but also make the soup more filling, perfect for a family dinner or meal prep for the week ahead.

Meal Prep Made Easy

This Chicken and Rice Soup is an ideal dish for meal prepping. You can prepare a large batch and store it in individual servings for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week. Simply let the soup cool before transferring it to airtight containers. When you're ready to enjoy it, just reheat on the stove or in the microwave, and you have a nutritious meal in minutes.

Moreover, the flavors of the soup deepen and improve as it sits, making leftovers even more delicious. Pair it with a crusty piece of bread or a simple side salad for a complete meal that’s both satisfying and nourishing.

Ingredients

Soup Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried parsley
6 cups chicken broth
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 cup cooked rice
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Ensure all ingredients are prepped for a smooth cooking process.

Instructions

Sauté the Vegetables

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

Add Seasonings and Broth

Stir in the thyme and parsley, then pour in the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil.

Simmer and Add Chicken and Rice

Reduce heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes. Add the shredded chicken and cooked rice, then season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Enjoy your warm bowl of Chicken and Rice Soup!

Storage Tips

To keep your Chicken and Rice Soup fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for up to 4 days, making it a convenient option for busy weeks. If you want to store it for a longer period, consider freezing it. Just make sure to leave some space in the container for expansion when the soup freezes.

When reheating frozen soup, allow it to thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results. Heat it gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. This way, you can enjoy the delicious flavors just as they were when freshly made.

Health Benefits

Chicken and Rice Soup is not only comforting but also packed with health benefits. The combination of chicken, vegetables, and rice provides a balanced meal rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals. Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, essential for muscle health and repair, while the vegetables contribute vital nutrients and fiber.

Moreover, homemade soup allows you to control the amount of salt and fat, making it a healthier choice compared to many canned varieties. Adding herbs like thyme and parsley not only enhances flavor but also brings additional antioxidants to your bowl, promoting overall wellness.

Pairing Suggestions

To elevate your Chicken and Rice Soup experience, consider pairing it with a light salad or a crusty bread. A fresh garden salad with a simple vinaigrette can complement the richness of the soup while adding a crunchy texture. Alternatively, a slice of warm, crusty bread is perfect for dipping and soaking up the delicious broth.

For a cozy night in, you might also enjoy a glass of white wine, such as a Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, which can enhance the flavors of the soup. This combination creates a warm and inviting meal that everyone will love.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use leftover chicken?

Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken works great in this recipe.

→ Can I make this soup in advance?

Yes, this soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

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

→ Can I freeze Chicken and Rice Soup?

Yes, this soup freezes well. Just make sure to leave out the rice until you reheat it.