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Ranch Chicken and Rice Soup

Ranch Chicken and Rice Soup: A Creamy Comfort in a Bowl

Ranch Chicken and Rice Soup is a comforting, creamy dish that combines tender chicken, hearty rice, and classic ranch flavors. It’s an easy, one-pot recipe that’s perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or when you need a little comfort in a bowl. This rich and flavorful soup is sure to become a favorite in your household.

Table of Contents

  • Ingredients
  • Instructions
  • Cooking Notes
  • Variations
  • Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
  • Conclusion

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion (chopped)
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 3 medium carrots (sliced)
  • 2 celery stalks (sliced)
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
  • 6 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

  1. In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Add the chopped onion, sliced carrots, and sliced celery. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables start to soften.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

  1. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the pot. Season with salt, black pepper, and the ranch seasoning mix.
  2. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is browned on all sides (it doesn’t need to be fully cooked at this point).

Step 3: Add the Broth and Rice

  1. Pour in the chicken broth and stir to combine.
  2. Add the uncooked rice, stir, and bring the mixture to a boil.
  3. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the soup simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.

Step 4: Add the Cream and Cheese

  1. Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Cook for another 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the soup is heated through.

Step 5: Serve

  1. Remove the pot from the heat and let the soup cool for a few minutes.
  2. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Cooking Notes

  • Ranch Seasoning: You can use store-bought ranch seasoning or make your own by combining dried parsley, dill, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt.
  • Chicken: Rotisserie chicken can be used for convenience. Just add it during Step 3 along with the broth and rice.
  • Rice: For a heartier texture, you can use brown rice, but note that the cooking time will need to be increased by 10-15 minutes.

Variations

Spicy Ranch Chicken and Rice Soup

  • Add 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce to give the soup a bit of a kick.

Loaded Ranch Chicken Soup

  • Stir in 1 cup of cooked, crumbled bacon and 1/2 cup of chopped green onions just before serving for a loaded baked potato-style twist.

Dairy-Free Ranch Chicken and Rice Soup

  • Replace the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free alternative, and use dairy-free shredded cheese or omit the cheese altogether.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?

Yes! This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep in mind that the rice will absorb more liquid as it sits, so you may need to add a bit more broth when reheating.

How Should I Store Leftovers?

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding additional broth or water if needed.

Can I Freeze Ranch Chicken and Rice Soup?

Yes, you can freeze this soup. Let it cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving. Note that the texture of the rice may change slightly after freezing.

Ranch Chicken and Rice Soup is the perfect comforting dish for those cold nights or when you’re craving something warm and hearty. With tender chicken, creamy broth, and classic ranch flavors, it’s a soup that’s easy to make and full of flavor. Customize it to suit your taste with different variations, and enjoy every creamy, comforting bite.

Happy cooking, and enjoy the cozy flavors of this delicious soup!