Comforting Chicken and Rice Soup Recipe for Cozy Nights

There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of chicken and rice soup. Imagine the savory aroma wafting through your kitchen, making you feel like you’re wrapped in a cozy blanket on a chilly evening. Each spoonful brings together tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a medley of vegetables that dance together in perfect harmony. It’s a dish that warms the heart and soul, ideal for those lazy Sundays or when you need a little TLC after a long day. For more inspiration, check out this main dish recipes recipe.

Chicken and rice soup is not just food; it’s a hug in a bowl. I remember my grandmother stirring her big pot on the stove, her secret ingredient being love (and maybe a sprinkle of magic). This soup has been the remedy for countless colds and broken hearts in my family. Whether it’s served as a quick weeknight dinner or made for cozy gatherings with friends, this dish never fails to impress. So grab your apron—it’s time to create some delicious memories!

Ingredients for Chicken and Rice Soup

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts work best, but feel free to adjust based on your serving size.

• Long-Grain Rice: Use uncooked long-grain white rice for fluffy texture; brown rice also works if you prefer whole grains.

• Carrots: Slice them thinly for sweetness; they add color and crunch to your soup.

• Celery Stalks: Chop these up finely; they bring freshness and depth to the overall flavor.

• Onion: A medium-sized onion enhances the base flavors; use yellow or white onions for the best results.

• Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic cloves give the soup its fragrant aroma; don’t skimp on this one!

• Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control the saltiness while keeping all that rich flavor intact.

• Dried Oregano: This herb adds an earthy touch; fresh oregano can be used if you have some handy.

• Pepper and Salt: To taste; season well as these key ingredients enhance every bite of your soup.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Chicken and Rice Soup

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by chopping up all your vegetables: dice the onion, slice the carrots and celery, and mince your garlic. It’s like prepping for a cooking show—make everything look pretty!

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

In a large pot over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil. Toss in your onions, carrots, celery, and garlic. Sauté until they soften—about five minutes should do it! The smell will have everyone drawn into your kitchen.

Step 3: Add Chicken

Next up! Place your boneless chicken breasts into the pot with sautéed veggies. Season with salt and pepper; let those flavors mingle for about two minutes.

Step 4: Pour in Broth

Now pour in enough chicken broth to cover all those good ingredients—about six cups should work nicely. Bring it to a rapid boil before reducing heat to simmer.

Step 5: Add Rice

Once simmering away happily, add in your uncooked rice along with dried oregano. Stir gently so everything gets well-distributed. Cover tightly and let it cook for about twenty minutes.

Step 6: Shred Chicken

After twenty minutes, remove chicken pieces from the pot. Shred them using two forks before returning them back into the delicious mix.

Serving suggestion: Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if you’re feeling fancy! Enjoy this delightful bowl of comfort alongside crusty bread or crackers—you deserve it!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing onions, garlic, and carrots in a large pot until fragrant. Then, add your chicken pieces to sear them before pouring in the broth and rice. This sequence ensures every ingredient shines in the final dish.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the rice for quinoa or noodles if you’re feeling adventurous. You can also toss in some frozen peas or corn for an extra veggie boost or sprinkle fresh herbs on top for that gourmet touch.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover chicken and rice soup in airtight containers in the fridge for up to five days. When reheating, add a splash of broth to revive its creamy texture and flavor—microwave or heat on the stove until warm.

Sometimes I whip up this chicken and rice soup whenever I’m feeling under the weather. My friends always say it’s like a warm blanket that magically cures all ailments—who knew soup could have superpowers?

FAQs :

What is Chicken and Rice Soup?

Chicken and Rice Soup is a comforting dish that combines tender chicken, flavorful rice, and a variety of vegetables simmered in a rich broth. This soup is not only delicious but also nourishing, making it a popular choice for those seeking warmth or relief from colds. Its simplicity allows for variations, such as adding herbs and spices to enhance flavor. Whether enjoyed on a chilly day or as a quick weeknight dinner, Chicken and Rice Soup is sure to satisfy.

How long does Chicken and Rice Soup last in the fridge?

Chicken and Rice Soup can last in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days when stored in an airtight container. To maintain its freshness, ensure that the soup cools to room temperature before sealing it. If you wish to keep it longer, consider freezing portions of the soup, which can last up to 6 months in the freezer. When reheating, make sure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure food safety.

Can I use leftover chicken for Chicken and Rice Soup?

Absolutely! Using leftover chicken is a great way to save time while making Chicken and Rice Soup. Shredded rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken you have on hand adds flavor without additional cooking time. Just add the chicken towards the end of the cooking process to warm it through without drying it out. This method not only reduces waste but also enhances the soup’s taste. For more inspiration, check out this cooking tips recipe.

What vegetables can I add to Chicken and Rice Soup?

You can customize your Chicken and Rice Soup by adding various vegetables based on your preference. Common choices include carrots, celery, peas, or spinach for added nutrition and color. Feel free to experiment with seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers as well. Adding fresh herbs like parsley or thyme can elevate the flavor profile while providing extra health benefits.

Conclusion for Chicken and Rice Soup :

Chicken and Rice Soup stands out as a nourishing comfort food perfect for any occasion. With its simple ingredients, you can create a wholesome meal that warms the soul. From using leftover chicken to incorporating seasonal vegetables, this recipe offers flexibility for personal tastes. Enjoy preparing this delightful soup that not only satisfies hunger but also brings warmth during cold days or moments of need. Embrace the goodness of homemade Chicken and Rice Soup today!

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Chicken and Rice Soup

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• Author: Mark Taylor
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 6 bowls 1x

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Description

Warm your soul with this comforting Chicken and Rice Soup. Packed with tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a vibrant mix of vegetables, this dish is the ultimate hug in a bowl. Perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a little TLC, it’s not just a meal—it’s a cherished memory waiting to be created in your own kitchen.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
• 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
• 2 medium carrots, sliced thinly
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil

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Instructions

1. Prepare your ingredients by chopping the vegetables: dice the onion, slice the carrots and celery, and mince the garlic.
2. In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil. Sauté onions, carrots, celery, and garlic for about five minutes until softened.
3. Add the chicken breasts to the pot and season with salt and pepper. Sear for two minutes to enhance flavor.
4. Pour in the chicken broth to cover all ingredients; bring to a boil then reduce heat to simmer.
5. Once simmering, add rice and oregano; stir gently. Cover and cook for about twenty minutes.
6. Remove chicken from pot after twenty minutes, shred using two forks, then return it to the soup.
7. Serve hot in bowls garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 1.5 cups)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 750mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: Feel free to swap long-grain rice for quinoa or noodles for a different texture. Add frozen peas or corn for extra nutrition or sprinkle fresh herbs on top before serving.