Chicken and Rice Soup is a comforting and nourishing dish that’s perfect for chilly days or when you need a warm, hearty meal. This classic soup combines tender pieces of chicken, aromatic vegetables, and flavorful herbs with soft, fluffy rice, creating a delicious and satisfying bowl of goodness. Let’s dive into this easy-to-follow recipe for Chicken and Rice Soup.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 ribs celery, chopped
- 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme leaves
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 bay leaves
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice, such as jasmine or basmati
- 2 1/2 cups diced cooked chicken
- Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
- Chop the Vegetables: Start by chopping the onion, celery, and carrots into small, uniform pieces. Mince the garlic cloves finely.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
- Melt the Butter: In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Cook the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion, celery, and carrots to the pot. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the onion is translucent.
- Add the Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
Step 3: Add Seasonings and Broth
- Season the Soup: Add the dried parsley, dried thyme leaves, freshly ground black pepper, and bay leaves to the pot. Stir to combine.
- Pour in the Broth: Pour the low-sodium chicken broth into the pot and bring the mixture to a boil.
Step 4: Cook the Rice
- Add the Rice: Once the broth is boiling, add the uncooked long-grain white rice to the pot. Stir to ensure the rice is evenly distributed.
- Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender.
Step 5: Add the Chicken
- Add the Chicken: Stir in the diced cooked chicken. Continue to cook for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through.
Step 6: Serve the Soup
- Season to Taste: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or thyme.
Cooking Notes
- Chicken: You can use leftover cooked chicken or a rotisserie chicken for this recipe. If you don’t have cooked chicken on hand, you can cook chicken breasts or thighs and then dice them.
- Rice: Long-grain white rice, such as jasmine or basmati, is recommended for this recipe, but you can also use brown rice. Just note that brown rice may require a longer cooking time.
- Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables such as peas, corn, or spinach to enhance the soup’s flavor and nutritional value.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time? A: Yes, you can make this soup ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove before serving.
Q: Can I freeze Chicken and Rice Soup? A: Yes, this soup freezes well. Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove.
Q: Can I use a different type of rice? A: Yes, you can use any type of rice you prefer, but keep in mind that cooking times may vary. Adjust the simmering time accordingly.
Q: What can I serve with Chicken and Rice Soup? A: This soup pairs well with a fresh green salad, crusty bread, or a grilled cheese sandwich.
Keto/Low Carb Version
To make a keto or low-carb version of this recipe, substitute the rice with cauliflower rice or shirataki rice. Ensure that the broth and other ingredients are low in carbohydrates.
Chicken and Rice Soup is a timeless classic that brings comfort and warmth to any meal. Its combination of tender chicken, flavorful vegetables, and aromatic herbs makes it a favorite for both kids and adults. Whether you’re looking for a cozy meal on a cold day or a nourishing dish to lift your spirits, this Chicken and Rice Soup is the perfect choice.
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