chicken and rice soup recipe

chicken and rice soup recipe

The Best chicken and rice soup recipe

I’ve been making chicken and rice soup for years, and it’s still a staple in our household. The dish originated from my grandmother, who learned it from her mother, and it’s been passed down through generations.

I love this recipe because it’s simple, comforting, and perfect for any occasion. Whether I’m feeling under the weather or just need a warm meal after a long day, this soup is always a good idea.

My kids adore it too – they love helping me in the kitchen, especially when we get to make this soup together. The aroma of simmering chicken and rice is like a big hug in a bowl, and it instantly transports me back to my childhood.

My grandmother would always say that the key to making great chicken and rice soup was to use high-quality ingredients and to let it simmer slowly over low heat. She was right – it’s all about patience and allowing the flavors to meld together.

I’ve experimented with different variations over the years, but this recipe remains one of my favorites. It’s easy to make ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze for later use, which is perfect for busy weeknights or when we’re short on time.

My family loves when I serve it with some crusty bread or over egg noodles – it adds an extra layer of flavor and texture that they just can’t get enough of. As for me, I love how nourishing this soup is – the combination of protein from the chicken, complex carbohydrates from the rice, and healthy fats from the vegetables makes it an excellent option for those days when I’m feeling run down or need a pick-me-up.

Chicken and Rice Soup

Chicken and Rice Soup

4.9 from 1571 votes

A comforting and hearty soup featuring tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a rich broth. Perfect for a cozy meal on a cold day.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

Ingredients

2 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
1 cup long grain white rice
1 medium onion, diced
2 carrots, diced
2 stalks celery, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups low sodium chicken broth
2 cups water
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tsp dried thyme
1 bay leaf

👨‍🍳Directions

1Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2Add diced onion, carrots, and celery.
3Cook until vegetables are softened and onions are translucent.
4Add minced garlic to the pot and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
5Be careful not to burn the garlic.
6Add chicken breasts to the pot.
7Cook until chicken is no longer pink on the outside.
8Add chicken broth, water, salt, black pepper, thyme, and bay leaf.
9Stir to combine.
10Bring the mixture to a boil.
11Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 10 minutes.
12Add rice to the pot.
13Stir well to combine with the broth.
14Cover the pot and let it simmer for an additional 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
15Check the rice for doneness by tasting a grain.
16Remove the pot from heat.
17Let the soup rest for 5 minutes before serving.
18This allows the flavors to meld together.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups
Cutting board
Knife

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 8g💛Saturated Fat: 1.5g❤️Cholesterol: 75mg🧂Sodium: 800mg🌾Total Carbs: 35g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 3g🥩Protein: 30g

📝Notes

Tips: You can add other vegetables like spinach or peas for extra nutrition. Adjust the seasoning to taste.

Watch Video Of How Chicken and Rice Soup Works

This recipe is truly one of my go-to favorites for any occasion – whether we’re having family gatherings or just need a quick meal after school pick-up. The best part?

It’s ridiculously easy to make ahead of time! Simply refrigerate or freeze individual portions until you’re ready to reheat them on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Don’t forget to store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge at 40°F (4°C) or below for up to 5 days.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken and Rice Soup

Q: What type of rice should I use?

A: For this recipe, you’ll want to use long-grain white rice. It’s best if you can use uncooked rice that’s been allowed to sit at room temperature overnight before cooking – this will help reduce cooking time significantly.

Q: Can I use boneless chicken breasts instead of thighs?

A: While you can certainly use boneless chicken breasts if you prefer them, keep in mind that they will yield a slightly different flavor profile than using bone-in thighs. Bone-in thighs contain more marrow than breasts do, which adds richness and depth to the soup.

Q: How long does this soup keep in the refrigerator?

A: Cooked chicken and rice soup will keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days when stored in an airtight container in the fridge at 40°F (4°C) or below. You can also freeze individual portions for up to 3 months – simply thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

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