Warm your soul with a comforting bowl of Hearty Chicken and Rice Soup that’s perfect for any season! This delightful American classic combines tender chicken, wholesome vegetables, and fluffy rice in a rich, savory broth that will have your taste buds singing. In just over an hour, you can create a nourishing meal that serves six, making it ideal for family dinners or meal prep for the week. Ready to dive into a recipe that promises to be a cozy hug in a bowl? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 pound chicken breast, cooked and shredded
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup rice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions, diced carrots, and diced celery. Sauté for 5-6 minutes until vegetables become soft and onions are translucent.
- Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning and release aromatic flavors.
- Pour chicken broth into the pot and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Add rice and reduce heat to a simmer, covering the pot partially.
- Cook rice for approximately 18-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until rice is tender and has absorbed some of the broth.
- Add pre-cooked shredded chicken to the pot, stirring to distribute evenly throughout the soup.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting seasoning as needed.
- Simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes to allow flavors to meld together and chicken to heat through completely.
- Remove from heat and let soup rest for 2-3 minutes before serving.
- Ladle into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving hot.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, chop your vegetables and shred the chicken in advance. This will make the cooking process smoother and quicker.
- Use Leftover Chicken: This recipe is perfect for using leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken you have on hand. It adds flavor and cuts down on prep time!
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like peas, corn, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Adjust the Broth: If you prefer a thicker soup, reduce the amount of chicken broth or add more rice. For a lighter version, you can increase the broth.
- Don’t Rush the Sauté: Take your time when sautéing the onions, carrots, and celery. This step builds a flavorful base for your soup.
- Fresh Herbs Matter: Garnishing with fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the flavor. Consider adding other herbs like thyme or dill for an aromatic twist.
- Storage Tips: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water or broth if it thickens too much.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 28g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 65mg
