Are you ready to boost your immune system while indulging in a warm, comforting bowl of soup? Look no further than our Immune Boosting Chicken and Rice Soup! This hearty recipe combines tender chicken, wholesome brown rice, and a medley of fresh vegetables, all simmered in a rich chicken broth that’s bursting with flavor. Perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a little extra nourishment, this soup not only delights your taste buds but also supports your health. With just 10 minutes of prep and 40 minutes of cooking, you’ll have a delicious meal that serves six and warms the soul. Dive into this recipe and discover how easy it is to create a dish that’s as good for you as it is comforting!
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 1 cup brown rice
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 1 lb of diced chicken breast, 1 cup of brown rice, 1 chopped onion, 2 sliced carrots, 2 sliced celery stalks, 4 cups of chicken broth, 2 minced cloves of garlic, 1 teaspoon of thyme, and salt and pepper to taste.
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent and fragrant.
- Add the minced garlic to the pot and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes, being careful not to let it burn.
- Next, add the diced chicken breast to the pot. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is no longer pink on the outside.
- Once the chicken is cooked, add the sliced carrots and celery to the pot. Stir well and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
- Pour in the 4 cups of chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, add the 1 cup of brown rice and the teaspoon of thyme.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed some of the broth.
- After 30 minutes, taste the soup and season with salt and pepper to your liking. If the soup is too thick, you can add a bit more broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
- Once the soup is seasoned to your taste, remove it from the heat and let it sit for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve the Immune Boosting Chicken and Rice Soup hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired, and enjoy the comforting and nutritious meal.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, chop your vegetables and dice the chicken in advance. You can store them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.
- Use Fresh Herbs: For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like parsley or dill just before serving. They not only enhance the taste but also add a pop of color!
- Adjust the Broth: If you prefer a brothier soup, feel free to add more chicken broth or water as the soup simmers. This also helps if you’re serving larger portions.
- Add Greens: For an extra nutritional boost, toss in some spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking. They’ll wilt perfectly and add vibrant color.
- Leftover Magic: This soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it a fantastic option for meal prep. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen it up.
- Make it Your Own: Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or spices. Peas, corn, or even a dash of cayenne pepper can give it your personal touch!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 65mg
