Name: Chicken Rice Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: PT-486127H48M21S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast (or thighs); 1 cup long-grain white rice (or wild rice); 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 medium onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 3 carrots, diced; 3 celery stalks, diced; 8 cups chicken broth; 1 tsp dried thyme; 1 tsp dried parsley; 1 bay leaf; Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley, for garnish

A hearty and comforting Chicken Rice Soup made with tender shredded chicken, aromatic vegetables, and fluffy rice simmered in a savory broth. Perfect for chilly days or a quick, nourishing meal anytime.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Chicken Rice Soup is:

Comforting and Hearty: Loaded with wholesome ingredients that warm and nourish.
Easy to Prepare: Simple steps, perfect for beginners and busy cooks.
Nutritious: Packed with lean protein and fresh vegetables.
Versatile: Easily customizable with your favorite ingredients.

Chicken Rice Soup

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 lb chicken breast (or thighs)
1 cup long-grain white rice (or wild rice)
2 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
3 carrots, diced
3 celery stalks, diced
8 cups chicken broth
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried parsley
1 bay leaf
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, for garnish

directions

Cook the Chicken:
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until lightly browned. Remove and shred.
Sauté Veggies:
In the same pot, add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5 minutes until vegetables soften.
Simmer the Soup:
Add chicken broth, thyme, parsley, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then lower heat to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes.
Add Rice and Chicken:
Stir in rice and shredded chicken. Continue simmering for another 15–20 minutes until rice is fully cooked and tender.
Season and Serve:
Remove the bay leaf. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6 servings
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 45 minutes

Variations

Rice Options: Substitute white rice with wild rice, brown rice, or even orzo for a different texture.
Add Vegetables: Include spinach, kale, corn, peas, or mushrooms for additional flavor and nutrients.
Herb Enhancements: Use fresh herbs such as rosemary or oregano instead of dried for a more robust flavor.
Creamy Version: Stir in a bit of cream or coconut milk at the end for extra creaminess.

storage/reheating

Storage: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding more broth or water if needed since rice may absorb extra liquid.
Freezing: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use cooked chicken instead of raw?

Yes, you can easily substitute pre-cooked chicken to save time. Add it during the final simmer with the rice.

How can I keep the rice from becoming mushy?

Add rice only during the final stage of cooking and avoid over-simmering.

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Absolutely. Cook ingredients on low for about 6–8 hours, adding rice during the last hour.

Is it gluten-free?

Yes, if using gluten-free chicken broth and ingredients, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.

Can I substitute brown rice?

Yes, but cooking time will extend by about 15–20 minutes.

Can I use vegetable broth?

Yes, vegetable broth works fine, though chicken broth enhances the flavor more effectively.

How do I thicken the soup?

Stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water) and simmer briefly.

What should I serve with this soup?

Crusty bread, garlic toast, or a simple salad pairs beautifully with Chicken Rice Soup.

Can I freeze leftover soup?

Yes, this soup freezes well, though rice may become softer after thawing.

Can I add noodles instead of rice?

Yes, add noodles in the last 10 minutes of cooking to ensure they do not overcook.

Conclusion

Chicken Rice Soup is the ultimate comfort food—delicious, filling, and incredibly easy to make. With its customizable ingredients and simple preparation, this soup will quickly become a staple in your meal rotation.