Hearty Chicken and Rice Soup
A warm and comforting bowl of this chicken and rice soup is just what you need on a chilly day or whenever you’re craving something hearty and flavorful. This nourishing soup brings back special memories of cozy meals at home, filling the kitchen with inviting aromas. It’s a simple yet satisfying dish that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!
Ingredients
Spices:
- 1 tsp dried basil
- ½ tsp dried parsley
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp dried thyme
- ½ tsp mustard powder
- ¼ tsp black pepper
For the Soup Base:
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 small yellow onion, chopped
- ½ cup chopped carrots
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 5 cups chicken broth
- 1 tsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp hot sauce
- 1 ¼ lbs bone-in chicken breast
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Rice:
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth
- ¾ cup uncooked long-grain white rice (or 2 ¼ cups cooked rice)
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 270
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fat: 7g
- Sugar: 4g
Instructions
Prepare the Soup Base
Begin by heating the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Once the butter has melted and started to bubble, add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté the vegetables for about 4 minutes, or until they soften and begin to release their flavors.
Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. This step adds depth to the soup and enhances the overall flavor profile.
Simmer the Soup
Add the spices—basil, parsley, oregano, thyme, mustard powder, and black pepper—into the pot along with the soy sauce, hot sauce, bone-in chicken breasts, and chicken broth. Stir everything together and bring it to a gentle simmer. Avoid bringing the soup to a rapid boil, as this can cause the chicken to become tough.
Partially cover the pot and let the soup simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until the chicken breasts are fully cooked and tender. Once the chicken is cooked, remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside to cool slightly.
Shred the chicken using two forks, discarding the bones. Return the shredded chicken to the pot, and stir it into the soup base.
Cook the Rice Separately
While the soup is simmering, prepare the rice. In a separate medium pot, bring 1 ½ cups of chicken broth to a boil. Once boiling, add the uncooked rice and stir it to coat the grains evenly in the broth. Bring the mixture back to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot tightly and let the rice simmer for about 15 minutes.
Once the rice is tender and fully cooked, turn off the heat and let the rice sit covered for an additional 10 minutes. This allows the rice to fluff up and absorb any remaining moisture.
Assemble and Serve
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as necessary with salt, adding it to your preference. To serve, spoon some rice into individual bowls and ladle the hot soup over the top. If you have leftovers, it’s best to store the soup and rice separately to prevent the rice from soaking up too much broth as it sits.
For a finishing touch, garnish the soup with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and extra flavor. Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips for Success
- Cooking Tip: Cooking the rice separately ensures it doesn’t absorb too much broth during storage, keeping it fresh and allowing for easier reheating. This also prevents the soup from becoming too thick if the rice absorbs too much liquid.
- Rice Variations: You can use different types of rice such as brown rice, jasmine, or basmati. Keep in mind that different types of rice may require adjustments in the amount of water or broth and the cooking time. Always follow the package instructions for best results.
- Freezer-Friendly: Both the soup and rice freeze well. If you plan to freeze the soup, make sure to store the rice and soup separately in airtight containers. Reheat gently when ready to serve.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add more vegetables to customize your soup. Frozen peas, corn, or green beans can all be added to enhance the soup’s flavor and texture.
- Chicken Options: If you prefer, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. However, using bone-in chicken provides a richer flavor and helps to make the broth more savory.
How to Store Chicken and Rice Soup
- Room Temperature: If you plan to eat the soup within a few hours, it can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 hours.
- Refrigerator: Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
- Freezer: This soup freezes well for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bag. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove over low heat, adding extra broth or water if needed.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Cozy and Comforting: This chicken and rice soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for warming you up on a cold day or when you just need a little pick-me-up.
- Simple and Nostalgic: The flavors are simple yet nostalgic, reminding you of home-cooked meals with family. It’s easy to make with everyday ingredients and requires minimal effort.
- Flexible: This soup is incredibly versatile. You can use cooked rice if you’re short on time, and it’s easily customizable with different vegetables or rice varieties to suit your taste.
- Filling and Hearty: Packed with protein from the chicken and fiber from the rice and vegetables, this soup is a satisfying meal on its own or served with crusty bread on the side.
FAQs
Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?
Yes, leftover cooked chicken can be used instead of cooking bone-in chicken breasts. Just shred the chicken and add it to the soup during the final step.
Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?
If you prefer a vegetarian version, feel free to use vegetable broth in place of chicken broth. You can also substitute the chicken with plant-based protein options like tofu or tempeh.
How do I prevent the rice from becoming too mushy in leftovers?
By cooking the rice separately from the soup, you can avoid the rice absorbing too much broth. This helps the rice maintain its texture when reheated. If storing leftovers, keep the rice and soup in separate containers.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! This soup can be made a day or two in advance and stored in the refrigerator. The flavors will continue to meld together, making it even tastier. Just reheat it gently on the stove when you’re ready to serve.
How do I make this soup spicier?
If you like your soup with more heat, you can increase the amount of hot sauce or add red pepper flakes to taste. Start with a small amount and adjust as necessary until you reach your desired spice level.
Final Thoughts
This hearty chicken and rice soup is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting bowl of warmth that’s perfect for any season. Packed with flavor, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked rice, it’s sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen. Easy to make, customizable, and freezer-friendly, this soup is perfect for busy days or when you want something simple but satisfying. Enjoy a bowl of this soup and let it warm your heart as much as it warms your stomach!