Warm your heart and fill your belly with a bowl of Grandmama Toni's Chicken Rice Cheese Soup—a comforting dish that brings the essence of home-cooked love straight to your table! This creamy, cheesy delight is not just a meal; it's a hug in a bowl that will have your family asking for seconds. Perfect for chilly evenings or when you're feeling under the weather, this recipe combines tender chicken, hearty rice, and rich cheddar cheese in a savory broth that’s simply irresistible. Ready to discover how to whip up this family favorite in just 40 minutes? Let’s dive in!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 2 cups of cooked, shredded chicken, 4 cups of chicken broth, 1 cup of cooked rice, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, 1 cup of milk, 1/2 cup of diced onion, 2 cloves of minced garlic, 1 teaspoon of thyme, and salt and pepper to taste.
- In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent.
- Add the minced garlic to the pot and continue to sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Pour in the 4 cups of chicken broth, and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Once boiling, add the shredded chicken and cooked rice to the pot. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the 1 cup of milk and 1 teaspoon of thyme. Allow the soup to simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- After simmering, gradually add the 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese to the pot. Stir continuously until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is creamy.
- Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting according to your preference.
- Once the soup is heated through and well combined, remove it from the heat and let it sit for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve the soup hot, garnished with additional shredded cheese or fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy Grandmama Toni's Chicken Rice Cheese Soup!
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, shred your chicken and cook your rice in advance. You can even use leftover chicken from a previous meal!
- Broth Matters: For the best flavor, use homemade chicken broth if you have it. Store-bought works too, but look for low-sodium options to control the saltiness.
- Cheese Choices: While cheddar cheese is traditional, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gouda for a unique twist on flavor.
- Herb Variations: Fresh herbs like parsley or dill can elevate the soup's taste. Add them just before serving for a burst of freshness.
- Thickening the Soup: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a little cold water and stir it into the soup during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Garnish Ideas: Top your soup with croutons, extra shredded cheese, or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a beautiful presentation.
- Storage Tips: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of milk if it thickens too much.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 18g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 80mg
