Why Make This Recipe
Chicken and Rice Soup is a classic comfort food that warms the soul. It’s nourishing, filling, and perfect for any time of the year. This soup is not just delicious; it’s also a great way to use up leftover chicken and vegetables. Plus, it is easy to make and can be ready in under an hour.
How to Make Chicken and Rice Soup
Ingredients:
- 1 cup chicken, cooked and shredded
- 1 cup rice
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 bay leaf
Directions:
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery, and sauté until softened.
- Stir in the cooked chicken, rice, chicken broth, salt, pepper, thyme, and bay leaf.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 20 minutes, until the rice is cooked.
- Remove the bay leaf and serve hot, optionally with fresh bread or a garden salad.
How to Serve Chicken and Rice Soup
Serve Chicken and Rice Soup hot in big bowls. You can add a sprinkle of fresh herbs for extra flavor. It pairs nicely with crusty bread or a refreshing garden salad on the side.
How to Store Chicken and Rice Soup
To store Chicken and Rice Soup, let it cool completely. Then, transfer it to an airtight container and place it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. If you want to store it longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to leave some space in the container as the soup may expand when frozen.
Tips to Make Chicken and Rice Soup
- Use leftover rotisserie chicken for extra flavor and saved time.
- Adjust the amount of rice based on how thick you like your soup. More rice makes it heartier!
- Feel free to add more veggies, such as peas or corn, for extra nutrition and taste.
Variation
You can make a creamy version of Chicken and Rice Soup by adding a splash of heavy cream or milk at the end of cooking. For a spicier kick, add some red pepper flakes or hot sauce.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but brown rice takes longer to cook, so you may need to adjust the cooking time.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Just add all the ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free chicken broth and rice, this soup can be gluten-free.
