Description
Cozy Chicken and Rice Soup
Ingredients
2 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
3 medium carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, chopped
1 cup uncooked rice (white or brown)
8 cups chicken broth
2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried parsley
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Directions
Sauté Veggies: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Add Rice & Broth: Stir in rice, chicken broth, thyme, and parsley. Bring to a boil.
Simmer: Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes (longer for brown rice), stirring occasionally, until rice is tender.
Add Chicken: Stir in shredded chicken. Simmer for another 5 minutes to heat through.
Season: Taste and adjust with salt and pepper as needed.
Serve: Ladle into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and enjoy warm!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: 220 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect soup every time. After heating the oil, sauté the onion, carrots, and celery until the onions are translucent and the vegetables begin to soften, about 5-7 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for one more minute until fragrant. When adding the broth and rice, ensure the pot has come to a full, rolling boil before reducing the heat. This is crucial for properly cooking the rice. During the simmering stage, keep the pot covered and check only occasionally to prevent too much evaporation. The soup is ready when the rice is fully tender and has absorbed some of the broth, thickening the soup slightly.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile soup pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. For a classic comfort meal, serve it with warm, crusty bread or buttery dinner rolls for dipping. A simple side salad with a bright vinaigrette offers a fresh contrast. For added heartiness, top individual bowls with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, a dollop of pesto, or a dash of hot sauce. It also makes an excellent packed lunch; simply store it in a thermos to keep it hot.
How-to Summary
In summary, create this soup by first sautéing diced onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Next, add uncooked rice, chicken broth, and dried herbs, then bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer until the rice is tender. Finally, stir in pre-cooked shredded chicken, heat through, and season with salt and pepper.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use uncooked chicken instead of pre-cooked? Yes. Add 1-2 raw, diced chicken breasts with the broth and rice. Simmer until the chicken is cooked through and shreds easily, about 20-25 minutes, before proceeding.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store cooled soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water as the rice will continue to absorb liquid.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker? Absolutely. Sauté veggies as directed, then transfer everything except the chicken to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4. Add shredded chicken in the last 30 minutes.
My soup got too thick. How can I fix it? Simply stir in additional chicken broth or water when reheating until you reach your desired consistency. The rice will absorb liquid over time.
Is brown rice a good substitute? Yes, but it requires a longer simmering time (40-50 minutes) and more liquid. You may need to add an extra 1-2 cups of broth during cooking.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid adding the cooked chicken too early, as it can become tough and rubbery from overcooking. Stir it in just to heat through at the end. Do not under-sauté the aromatic vegetables (onion, carrot, celery), as this step builds the soup’s foundational flavor. Resist the urge to constantly lift the lid while the rice is simmering, as this releases steam and can lead to uneven cooking. Finally, be sure to taste and season properly at the end; undersalted soup will taste bland.
Conclusion
This Cozy Chicken and Rice Soup is the ultimate hearty and healthy comfort food, perfect for any day of the week. With simple ingredients and a straightforward process, it delivers incredible homemade flavor with minimal effort. By following the detailed steps, serving suggestions, and tips provided, you can easily master this classic recipe and avoid common pitfalls. It’s a forgiving and flexible dish that welcomes customization, making it a reliable staple for your recipe collection. Enjoy the warmth and satisfaction of a bowl made from scratch.