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Chicken and Rice Soup

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This wholesome soup combines shredded chicken, fluffy rice, and a medley of vegetables in a savory broth. It’s easy to make, filling, and perfect for the whole family.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
  • 2 celery stalks, sliced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley (or 1 tablespoon fresh parsley)
  • 8 cups (2 liters) chicken broth
  • 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works great)
  • 1 bay leaf
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Optional: Juice of 1/2 lemon for a bright finish

For garnish:

  • Fresh parsley, chopped
  • Crusty bread for serving

Instructions

  • Sauté the vegetables:
    • Heat the olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery, and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until softened. Add the garlic, thyme, and parsley, and cook for another 1 minute, stirring constantly.
  • Add the broth and rice:
    • Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Stir in the uncooked rice and add the bay leaf. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes (for white rice) or 30-35 minutes (for brown rice), or until the rice is tender.
  • Add the chicken:
    • Stir in the shredded chicken and simmer for an additional 5 minutes, until heated through.
  • Season the soup:
    • Remove the bay leaf. Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed. Stir in the lemon juice, if using, for a fresh, tangy flavor.
  • Serve:
    • Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot with crusty bread on the side.

Notes

  • Make it creamy: Stir in 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut milk at the end for a creamy variation.
  • Gluten-free: Ensure that the chicken broth is gluten-free if needed.
  • Leftovers: The rice will absorb more liquid as it sits. Add extra broth or water when reheating to restore the soup’s consistency.