Introduction
There is nothing more comforting than a warm bowl of homemade Chicken and Rice Soup. This dish is like a hug in a bowl—rich, hearty, and full of nourishing ingredients. Whether you are feeling under the weather, looking for a satisfying meal on a cold day, or simply craving a classic homemade soup, this recipe is the perfect choice.
What makes this soup special is the combination of tender chicken, fragrant herbs, perfectly cooked rice, and a flavorful broth. It’s a dish that fills your home with an inviting aroma and brings back memories of family meals and cozy evenings.
Why You Will Love This Chicken and Rice Soup
- Comforting and Warm – The perfect meal for chilly days or when you need a little comfort.
- Nutritious and Wholesome – Packed with protein, vitamins, and minerals.
- Easy to Make – Uses simple ingredients and comes together in just over 30 minutes.
- Customizable – Swap ingredients based on what you have available.
- Perfect for Meal Prep – Great for storing and reheating throughout the week.
Ingredients for Chicken and Rice Soup
Spices and Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon dried parsley
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon mustard powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Soup Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- ½ cup chopped carrots
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 5 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional, for a slight kick)
- 1¼ pounds bone-in chicken breast
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Rice Ingredients:
- 1½ cups chicken broth
- ¾ cup uncooked long-grain white rice (or 2¼ cups cooked rice)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Before starting, gather and chop all ingredients. This makes the cooking process smoother and faster.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
- In a large pot, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
- Add chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened.
- Add minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
Step 3: Add the Chicken and Broth
- Stir in the dried basil, parsley, oregano, thyme, mustard powder, and black pepper.
- Pour in the chicken broth, soy sauce, and hot sauce (if using).
- Add the bone-in chicken breast to the pot.
Step 4: Simmer the Soup
- Bring the soup to a gentle simmer, but do not let it boil, as boiling can make the chicken tough.
- Cover partially and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
Step 5: Shred the Chicken
- Remove the chicken breast from the soup and place it on a cutting board.
- Use two forks to shred the meat, discarding any bones.
- Return the shredded chicken to the pot and stir well.
Step 6: Cook the Rice Separately
Cooking the rice separately prevents it from soaking up too much broth, keeping both the soup and rice at their best for leftovers.
- In a separate saucepan, bring 1½ cups of chicken broth to a boil.
- Stir in ¾ cup of uncooked long-grain white rice, ensuring all grains are covered in liquid.
- Bring back to a boil, then cover the pot tightly and reduce heat to low.
- Simmer for 15 minutes without lifting the lid.
- After 15 minutes, remove from heat and let sit, covered, for 10 more minutes.
Note: Different types of rice may require slight adjustments in cooking time and liquid. Always check the package instructions.
Step 7: Assemble and Serve
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper, if needed.
- To serve: Place a scoop of cooked rice into individual bowls, then ladle the hot chicken soup over the top.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Serving Suggestions
This Chicken and Rice Soup is delicious on its own, but pairing it with a side dish makes the meal even more satisfying. Here are some great options:
- Crusty Bread or Dinner Rolls – Perfect for dipping into the flavorful broth.
- Side Salad – A light green salad with a vinaigrette dressing balances the richness of the soup.
- Steamed Vegetables – Serve with a side of roasted or steamed broccoli, green beans, or asparagus.
Tips for the Best Chicken and Rice Soup
Use Bone-In Chicken for More Flavor
Cooking the chicken with the bones enhances the depth of flavor in the broth. After cooking, simply remove the bones before shredding.
Cook Rice Separately for Best Texture
If rice is added directly into the soup, it will absorb too much broth and become mushy over time. Keeping them separate ensures the rice stays firm, even when storing leftovers.
Adjust the Spice Level to Taste
- If you prefer a mild soup, omit the hot sauce.
- For a spicier version, increase the hot sauce or add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Make it Creamy
For a creamy twist, stir in ½ cup of heavy cream or coconut milk before serving.
Use Leftover Chicken or Rotisserie Chicken
If you have pre-cooked or leftover chicken, simply shred it and add it at the end, reducing cooking time.
Storage and Reheating
Refrigeration:
- Store the soup and rice separately in airtight containers.
- Soup stays fresh for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing:
- Let the soup cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Store rice separately to prevent it from becoming mushy when reheated.
Reheating:
- Stovetop: Warm the soup over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth if needed.
- Microwave: Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until hot.
- If the rice has dried out slightly, add a little broth or water when reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but brown rice takes longer to cook. Adjust the cooking time and liquid accordingly.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes! Add all ingredients (except rice) to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Shred the chicken and stir it back into the soup before serving.
Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes! As long as you use gluten-free soy sauce, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.
Final Thoughts
This Homemade Chicken and Rice Soup is a timeless recipe that is rich in flavor, easy to prepare, and deeply satisfying. Whether you are cooking for your family, making a meal in advance, or just craving a classic bowl of comfort, this soup is the perfect choice.
Try this recipe today and enjoy a warm, nourishing meal that will leave you feeling cozy and full!