Cozy Chicken and Rice Soup: A Comforting Recipe Delight

Name: Chicken and Rice Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs); 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced; 2 medium carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, chopped; 1 medium onion, chopped; 1 cup long-grain rice; 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 1 tsp dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; Juice of 1 lemon

Recipe By:

Daniel Lawson

Posted:

September 29, 2025

Updated:

September 29, 2025

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Chicken and rice soup is the culinary equivalent of a warm hug on a chilly day. Imagine diving into a steaming bowl filled with tender chicken, fluffy rice, and vibrant veggies, all swimming in a savory broth that smells like home. This dish not only warms your body but also soothes your soul, making it the perfect comfort food for rainy afternoons or cozy family dinners.

As I ladle out this delightful concoction, I’m reminded of the countless times my mom made it when I was feeling under the weather. The aroma wafting through our kitchen was like an invisible blanket that wrapped around us, whispering that everything would be okay. Now, as an adult, I still turn to this chicken and rice soup whenever life gets a little too hectic. It’s truly a recipe for any occasion—whether you’re nursing a cold or simply craving something delicious.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This chicken and rice soup is incredibly easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights

The rich flavor profile will make your taste buds dance with joy
Visually appealing with colorful vegetables, it’s as beautiful as it is tasty

Versatile enough to customize based on your pantry staples makes it a go-to meal

My friends always rave about how my chicken and rice soup seems to cure just about anything—bad day? Soup time!

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

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

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts work well; adjust according to how many people you’re feeding.
Fresh Garlic: Always choose firm garlic cloves for maximum flavor; trust me—it makes a difference!

Carrots: These add sweetness and color; opt for fresh ones for the best crunch.
Celery Stalks: Chopped celery enhances texture and provides an aromatic base; don’t skip it!
Onion: A chopped onion brings depth; sauté until translucent for optimal flavor.

Long-Grain Rice: Use this type for its perfect fluffy texture after cooking; no mushy mess here!
Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness while keeping it flavorful; homemade is best!
Dried Thyme: A sprinkle elevates the taste; fresh thyme works wonders too if you have it.

Salt and Pepper: Season to taste at the end for balanced flavor; everyone’s palate is different.
Lemon Juice: A dash of acidity brightens up everything beautifully at the end.

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

Let’s Make it Together

Sauté Your Aromatics: Start by heating a splash of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions, celery, and carrots, sautéing until they soften and release their delightful aromas—about 5 minutes should do it.

Add Garlic and Chicken: Toss in minced garlic and stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then add your chicken breasts whole into the pot—yes, we’re going all-in here!

Pour in the Broth: Carefully pour in the chicken broth along with two cups of water to create that glorious soup base. Bring everything to a gentle boil while stirring occasionally—you want those flavors mingling!

Season It Right: Add dried thyme along with salt and pepper to taste once boiling. Reduce heat to low and cover your pot—let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.

Add Rice: After removing the chicken, add rinsed long-grain rice directly into the broth. Cook according to package instructions—usually about 15 minutes—until tender yet perfectly al dente.

Tear and Serve: While rice cooks, shred cooked chicken using two forks—combine back into your pot along with a splash of lemon juice before serving.

And voilà! You have yourself a comforting bowl of chicken and rice soup that’s not only nourishing but also guaranteed to make you smile!

Now grab your favorite bowl (I know you have one) and dig into this heartwarming dish!

You Must Know

This chicken and rice soup not only warms the soul but also makes a fridge clean-out easy
You can adjust veggies based on what’s wilting in your crisper

The comforting aroma fills your kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around the table

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing onions and garlic before adding chicken, then simmer with rice and broth for ultimate flavor.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Mix in fresh herbs like parsley or swap white rice for brown for more nutrition and texture.

Storing & Reheating

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days; reheat gently on the stove for best results.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For perfectly tender chicken, cook it slowly at a low temperature to prevent dryness

Always salt your broth well; it makes all the difference
Add lemon juice just before serving for a fresh burst of flavor

Sharing my first attempt at chicken and rice soup brings back memories of my family’s laughter as they slurped away, seeking second helpings.

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use leftover chicken for this soup?

Yes, using leftover chicken saves time and adds great flavor to the soup.

What type of rice is best for chicken and rice soup?

Long-grain white rice works well, but you can use brown rice for added fiber.

How can I make this soup gluten-free?

Ensure your broth is gluten-free and use a gluten-free soy sauce if desired.

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