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I’m excited to share my favorite homemade chicken soup recipe with you! It’s the best comfort food for cold nights. It has tender chicken, fluffy rice, and veggies in a rich broth.
This recipe is super easy to make. It doesn’t matter if you’re a pro in the kitchen or a beginner. You’ll find it easy to follow. Plus, you can make it on the stovetop or use your Crock Pot for a simple way.
Get ready for your home to smell like simmering soup. This homemade chicken soup will be your new favorite for cold and sick days. Let’s start making some delicious comfort food together!
5 Reasons You’ll Love This Recipe
I’m excited to share why this chicken and rice soup recipe will become your new favorite! It’s a quick and simple soup that’s perfect for busy nights. Let me break down the top reasons you’ll adore this dish.
- Time-Saver: This one-pot recipe comes together in just 30 minutes. It’s ideal when you need a nourishing meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Comfort Food: The flavorful broth and tender chicken create a comforting dish that warms you from the inside out.
- Customizable: You can easily add extra veggies or adjust seasonings to suit your taste. It’s a versatile base for endless variations.
- Kid-Approved: This kid-friendly soup is a hit with little ones. I’ve seen children polish off their bowls and ask for seconds!
- Pantry-Friendly: You likely have most ingredients on hand already. No need for a special grocery trip to whip up this delicious meal.
I love how this recipe combines simplicity with flavor. It’s become my go-to when I need a satisfying dinner that doesn’t require much effort. The rich, savory broth paired with tender chicken and rice creates a meal that’s both filling and delicious.
Whether you’re cooking for a family or meal prepping for the week, this chicken and rice soup fits the bill. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Give it a try, and I’m sure you’ll see why it’s a winner in my kitchen!
Exact Ingredients List (+ Possible Substitutes)
I love how versatile chicken soup ingredients can be. My go-to recipe starts with butter, onions, carrots, and celery. For extra punch, I add minced garlic. The star of the show is bone-in chicken breast, which gives the soup a rich taste.
When it comes to seasoning for chicken soup, I keep it simple yet effective. A splash of soy sauce adds depth, while hot sauce gives a subtle kick. Here’s my complete ingredient list:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 1/2 cup diced carrots
- 2 ribs celery, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 5 cups chicken broth
- 1 1/4 lb. bone-in chicken breast
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce
- Fresh parsley for garnish
For vegetable additions, feel free to toss in your favorites. Peas, corn, or spinach work great. As for rice options, I prefer white rice, but brown rice or even quinoa can be tasty substitutes. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make this soup your own!
Instructions
Let’s learn how to make chicken and rice soup. I start by melting butter in a big pot over medium heat. Then, I add diced onions, carrots, and celery.
After softening these veggies for about 4 minutes, I add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
Next, I season the soup. I use my favorite herbs, a bit of soy sauce, and some hot sauce for a kick. Then, I add chicken pieces and broth to the pot.
I let the soup simmer gently, with the lid on a bit. This cooks the chicken for 15-20 minutes. After, I take out the chicken, shred it, and put it back in the pot.
While the chicken cooks, I prepare the rice. I cook the rice with chicken broth for more flavor. Once it’s done, I cover it for 10 minutes to make it fluffy.
Then, I taste the soup and adjust the seasonings if needed. To serve, I put rice in bowls and pour the soup over it. A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top makes it perfect. That’s how I make chicken and rice soup.
Tips, Tricks & Storing
I’ve found ways to make chicken and rice soup even better. To avoid mushy rice, I cook it apart and mix it in later. High-quality long grain white rice is best. Also, slow-cooking the chicken makes it extra tasty.
It’s important to know how to store chicken and rice soup. I keep leftovers in separate containers in the fridge for 3 days. Freezing it is also good for up to 3 months.
When reheating, I sometimes add more broth. Using pre-cooked chicken saves time. Chicken stock gives a richer flavor than broth.
- Add extra vegetables for more nutrition
- Adjust seasonings to your taste
- Use long grain rice to avoid mushiness
These tips make my soup delicious every time. Following these tips keeps my soup fresh and tasty for days.
Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions
I love trying new things with chicken soup. Add veggies like spinach, peas, or corn for a veggie boost. For a nuttier taste, use brown rice. Just remember to cook it longer.
To make it creamier, add a bit of heavy cream before serving.
What to eat with chicken soup? Try crusty bread, gluten-free focaccia, or Ranch Oyster Crackers for dipping. For a bigger meal, add a fresh salad or half a sandwich.
Don’t forget to garnish! Use fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro. A squeeze of lime or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese can make your soup even better.
Want a healthier soup? Add quinoa or lentils for more protein and fiber. For a spicy kick, use more hot sauce or add red pepper flakes. These changes can make your chicken and rice soup a new favorite!