Easy Chicken and Rice Soup

Why Make This Recipe

Easy Chicken and Rice Soup is one of those dishes that wraps you in a warm hug. It’s simple, nourishing, and bursting with flavor. This recipe takes just a handful of ingredients and turns them into a delightful meal that’s perfect for families or cozy nights in. It’s a go-to for busy days, and it reminds us of home-cooked goodness. Whether you need comfort on a cold day or a quick meal, you’ll find this chicken and rice soup will fit the bill.

How to Make Easy Chicken and Rice Soup

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 1 cup rice
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup carrots, diced
• 1 cup celery, diced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Directions

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; cook until softened.
2. Stir in the shredded chicken, rice, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat and let simmer for about 20 minutes or until the rice is cooked.
5. Adjust seasoning as necessary and serve hot.

How to Serve Easy Chicken and Rice Soup

This comforting soup is best served hot in a deep bowl. Pair it with fresh bread or crackers, and a sprinkle of parsley on top for a pop of color. You might even want to serve it with a side salad for a complete meal.

How to Store Easy Chicken and Rice Soup

Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. If you need to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Just make sure to leave some space in the container, as the soup will expand when frozen. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheating on the stove or in the microwave is easy and convenient.

Tips to Make Easy Chicken and Rice Soup

To make this soup even more special, you can add other vegetables like peas or corn. Using homemade chicken broth will enhance the flavor significantly. Always taste your soup before serving; sometimes a little extra salt or pepper can make a big difference. And if you like a creamier texture, consider stirring in a splash of cream just before serving.

Variation

Feel free to switch out the rice for quinoa or barley for a different twist. You can also use leftover turkey instead of chicken, making this a fantastic post-holiday recipe.

FAQs

Can I use cooked rice instead of raw?

Yes, using cooked rice is a great shortcut! Just add it towards the end of cooking to heat through and keep the rice from becoming mushy.

Can I make Easy Chicken and Rice Soup in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Combine all the ingredients in your slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. It’s an easy way to have a warm meal waiting for you.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, this Easy Chicken and Rice Soup can be made gluten-free by using a gluten-free chicken broth and making sure your rice is also gluten-free.

What can I add for extra flavor in my soup?

Herbs like rosemary or parsley work well, or you can add a splash of lemon juice for brightness. A little soy sauce or hot sauce can also bring more depth to the flavor.

Conclusion

I hope you give this Easy Chicken and Rice Soup a try. It’s an ideal dish to share with family or cozy up with on your own. Every bowl carries the warmth of home-cooked meals that fill our hearts and our bellies. If you want to discover more recipes and kitchen tips, I’d love for you to follow me on Pinterest and Medium!