Lazy days call for hearty meals, and nothing spells comfort like a bowl of chicken rice and vegetable soup. This recipe is your ticket to a flavorful, nutritious meal that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. Perfect for those chilly evenings or when you’re feeling under the weather.
Why This Recipe Works
- Flavorful Base: Starting with a homemade chicken broth ensures a rich, deep flavor that store-bought versions just can’t match.
- Nutrient-Packed: Loaded with vegetables and lean chicken, this soup is as nutritious as it is comforting.
- Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, this recipe is accessible to cooks of all levels.
- Versatile: Easily adaptable to whatever veggies you have on hand, making it a great way to clean out the fridge.
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 6 cups homemade chicken broth
- 1 cup white rice
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp thyme
- 1 bay leaf
Equipment Needed
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery, sautéing until the onions are translucent and the vegetables start to soften, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Add the Broth and Seasonings
Pour in the chicken broth, then add the thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 3: Cook the Rice
Add the rice to the pot and simmer for another 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender. Stir occasionally to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
Step 4: Add the Chicken
Once the rice is cooked, stir in the shredded chicken and let the soup heat through for about 5 minutes. Adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Remove the bay leaf before serving. Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy hot. For an extra touch, garnish with fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice.
Tips and Tricks
Making your own chicken broth is simpler than you think and adds unparalleled depth to your soup. Just simmer chicken bones with water, onions, carrots, celery, and herbs for a few hours. Strain, and you’ve got gold. For a quicker version, use a rotisserie chicken—both the meat and the carcass for broth. To thicken the soup, mash some of the rice against the side of the pot or add a slurry of cornstarch and water. And remember, soups always taste better the next day, so don’t hesitate to make a big batch.
Recipe Variations
- Vegetarian Version: Swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth and omit the chicken. Add more veggies like zucchini or mushrooms for heartiness.
- Spicy Kick: Add a diced jalapeño or a teaspoon of chili flakes when sautéing the vegetables for some heat.
- Creamy Texture: Stir in a cup of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end for a richer, creamier soup.
- Different Grains: Substitute the white rice with brown rice, quinoa, or barley for a whole grain option. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use uncooked chicken instead of cooked?
Absolutely! Just add diced raw chicken to the pot after sautéing the vegetables and cook until no longer pink before adding the broth. This ensures the chicken is perfectly cooked and flavorful.
How can I store leftovers?
Let the soup cool to room temperature, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little water if the soup has thickened too much.
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well. Cool it completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Summary
This chicken rice and vegetable soup is a comforting, nutritious meal that’s easy to make and endlessly adaptable. Perfect for any day of the week, it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.
