Name: Easy Chicken and Rice Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 medium onion, chopped small; 3 sticks celery, chopped small; 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced thin; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 6 uncooked boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 8 cups chicken broth; ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1 cup long grain white rice (e.g., jasmine); Salt and pepper to taste; 1-2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

This Easy Chicken and Rice Soup is a comforting and nourishing dish that combines tender chicken, wholesome vegetables, and soft rice in a flavorful broth. Perfect for chilly days or when you’re seeking a simple yet satisfying meal, this soup comes together in just 35 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: With a total cooking time of 35 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Nutritious: Packed with protein-rich chicken and a variety of vegetables, offering a balanced meal.
One-Pot Meal: Simplifies cooking and cleanup, making it convenient for any home cook.
Versatile: Easily adaptable to include your favorite vegetables or to accommodate dietary preferences.

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped small
3 sticks celery, chopped small
3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced thin
3 cloves garlic, minced
6 uncooked boneless, skinless chicken thighs
8 cups chicken broth
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 cup long grain white rice (e.g., jasmine)
Salt and pepper to taste
1-2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and celery; sauté for about 5 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Add Carrots, Chicken, and Broth: Stir in the sliced carrots, then place the chicken thighs into the pot. Pour in the chicken broth and add the Italian seasoning. Bring the mixture to a boil.
Simmer the Soup: Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
Cook the Rice: Add the rice to the pot and continue to simmer for another 10-12 minutes, or until the rice is tender.
Shred the Chicken: Remove the cooked chicken thighs from the pot and shred them using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the soup.
Season and Serve: Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed. Stir in fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot.

Servings and Timing

Servings: This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

Protein Alternatives: Substitute chicken thighs with boneless, skinless chicken breasts or use shredded rotisserie chicken for convenience.
Grain Options: Replace white rice with brown rice or wild rice blends; note that cooking times may vary.
Additional Vegetables: Incorporate other vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
Herb Enhancements: Add fresh herbs such as thyme or rosemary to elevate the soup’s aroma and taste.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Thaw frozen soup in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, or microwave individual portions until hot.

FAQs

1. Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe?

Yes, using pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken is a convenient option. Simply shred the cooked chicken and add it to the soup after the rice has cooked, allowing it to heat through for a few minutes.

2. Can I make this soup in advance?

Yes, this soup can be made ahead of time. However, the rice may absorb more broth and become softer upon reheating. To prevent this, consider cooking the rice separately and adding it to the soup just before serving.

3. How can I add more flavor to the soup?

Enhance the soup’s flavor by adding a bay leaf during cooking, a splash of lemon juice for brightness, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for subtle heat.

4. Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, this soup is naturally gluten-free, provided that all ingredients, such as the chicken broth, are certified gluten-free.

5. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, brown rice can be used; however, it requires a longer cooking time and may absorb more liquid. Adjust the cooking time and add additional broth or water as needed.

6. How can I thicken the soup?

For a thicker consistency, you can reduce the amount of broth slightly or add a slurry made from cornstarch and water during the simmering process.

7. Can I add noodles instead of rice?

Yes, substituting rice with noodles like egg noodles or orzo pasta is a delicious alternative. Adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the type of pasta used.

8. What can I serve with this soup?

This soup pairs well with crusty bread, a simple side salad, or a grilled cheese sandwich.

Conclusion

Easy Chicken and Rice Soup is the perfect balance of comfort and nutrition. With tender chicken, soft rice, and vibrant vegetables, it makes for a wholesome meal that’s sure to please. This quick and versatile soup is perfect for meal prep or a simple weeknight dinner.