Zesty, comforting, and utterly delicious, this chicken and rice soup is your go-to remedy for chilly evenings or when you’re under the weather. Packed with flavors and easy to make, it’s a hearty meal that promises to warm your soul.
Why This Recipe Works
- It’s a one-pot wonder, meaning less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal.
- The combination of tender chicken and fluffy rice offers a perfect texture balance.
- Customizable with your favorite veggies, making it a versatile dish for any palate.
- Simmering the broth with herbs infuses deep, aromatic flavors into every spoonful.
- Leftovers taste even better the next day, as the flavors continue to meld.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups water
- 1 large carrot, diced
- 1 celery stalk, diced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Equipment Needed
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, carrot, and celery, sautéing until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This builds a flavor foundation for your soup.
Step 2: Brown the Chicken
Add the diced chicken to the pot, seasoning with salt, pepper, and thyme. Cook until the chicken is no longer pink on the outside, about 5 minutes. Browning the chicken first adds depth to the soup’s flavor.
Step 3: Add Liquids and Rice
Pour in the chicken broth and water, bringing the mixture to a boil. Stir in the rice, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover and let it cook for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender.
Step 4: Adjust Seasoning
Once the rice is cooked, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Letting it sit for a few minutes off the heat allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired. This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread for dipping.
Tips and Tricks
For an even richer flavor, consider using homemade chicken broth. If you’re short on time, store-bought works just fine. To make the soup creamier, stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end. For those who love a bit of heat, a dash of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes can add a nice kick. Lastly, if you’re meal prepping, this soup freezes beautifully. Just thaw and reheat when ready to enjoy.
Recipe Variations
- Swap white rice for brown rice or quinoa for a healthier twist. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
- Add leafy greens like spinach or kale in the last few minutes of cooking for a nutrient boost.
- For a creamy version, blend half the soup before adding the chicken back in.
- Use shrimp instead of chicken for a seafood variation.
- Add diced tomatoes and a pinch of saffron for a Mediterranean flair.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use leftover cooked rice?
Absolutely! Add cooked rice during the last 5 minutes of cooking to prevent it from becoming too mushy. This is a great way to use up leftovers and save time.
How can I make this soup thicker?
If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mash some of the rice against the side of the pot or add a slurry of cornstarch and water during the last few minutes of cooking.
Is this soup freezer-friendly?
Yes, this soup freezes well. Cool it completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Summary
This chicken and rice soup is a comforting, flavorful dish that’s easy to make and customizable to your taste. Perfect for any day of the week, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
