If you are craving a bowl of comfort that feels like a warm hug, this Chicken Rice Soup Recipe is exactly what you need. It brings together tender chicken, fragrant rice, and an array of fresh vegetables in a golden, savory broth that’s both nourishing and delightfully simple. This soul-soothing soup is easy to prepare and packed with flavors that meld perfectly, making it an all-time favorite to turn to anytime you need a little food therapy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering a handful of straightforward, wholesome ingredients is all it takes to craft this delicious soup. Each component has a special role, from the tender chicken breast that delivers protein and rich taste, to the rice that adds a satisfying texture, and the fresh vegetables that brighten up the bowl with their natural sweetness and color.
- 2 split chicken breasts: Choose pieces with skin for extra flavor during searing.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps brown the chicken perfectly and adds a subtle fruity note.
- 1 yellow onion, diced: Provides a sweet, aromatic base for the broth.
- 3 celery stalks, sliced: Adds freshness and a mild crunch to every spoonful.
- 3 carrots, sliced: Offer natural sweetness and vibrant color to the soup.
- 8 cups water: The foundation to create a light yet flavorful broth.
- 1 tablespoon chicken flavored Better Than Bouillon: Boosts the depth of chicken flavor with a rich umami punch.
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic: Gives warmth and subtle pungency that enhances the savory profile.
- 3 bay leaves: Infuse the broth with a gentle herbaceous note.
- 1 cup white rice (such as jasmine): Adds comforting body and soaks up all the delicious broth.
- Salt & pepper: Essential seasonings to balance and elevate every flavor.
How to Make Chicken Rice Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sear the Chicken
Begin by heating olive oil in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium-high heat. Pat the chicken breasts dry and season them generously with salt and pepper on both sides. Place the chicken skin side down in the hot oil without moving it for about 4 to 5 minutes, allowing a beautiful brown crust to form. Flip and cook the other side for 4 minutes more, undisturbed, to develop color and flavor that will enrich the soup.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
Once the chicken is perfectly seared, transfer it to a plate and set aside. Add diced onion to the pot and cook it, stirring occasionally, for about 3 to 4 minutes until translucent and soft. This step builds the flavor base that makes this Chicken Rice Soup Recipe so irresistible.
Step 3: Add Vegetables and Broth
Next, toss in the sliced celery, carrots, water, Better Than Bouillon, minced garlic, and bay leaves. Stir everything together, scraping the bottom of the pot gently to release the flavorful browned bits left from searing the chicken. Return the chicken breasts to the pot to soak up all those juicy flavors.
Step 4: Simmer and Cook Rice
Cover the pot and bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer for 15 minutes. Afterward, stir in the white rice, cover again, and let the soup simmer for an additional 10 minutes. This gentle cooking allows the rice to absorb the broth and become tender, perfect for that cozy mouthfeel.
Step 5: Finish Cooking Chicken and Rice
Remove the chicken breasts carefully and check for doneness. Transfer them to a cutting board to cool slightly while the soup continues to simmer for another 5 minutes, ensuring the rice is completely cooked and tender.
Step 6: Shred Chicken and Combine
Once the rice is ready, take out the bay leaves and turn off the heat. Remove the skin from the chicken breasts and cut the meat free from any bones. Dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces and stir it back into the pot. Your Chicken Rice Soup Recipe is now ready to serve piping hot and full of comforting flavor.
How to Serve Chicken Rice Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Elevate your bowl by sprinkling fresh parsley or cilantro on top for a burst of color and freshness. A light drizzle of good quality olive oil or a squeeze of lemon can add brightness, and a pinch of freshly cracked black pepper will awaken all the flavors.
Side Dishes
Pair this hearty soup with warm crusty bread or soft dinner rolls to soak up every last drop of the broth. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can add a refreshing contrast and round out your meal beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the Chicken Rice Soup Recipe in bread bowls or individual ramekins topped with a sprinkle of shredded cheese. Adding a swirl of herb-infused cream or a dash of chili flakes can also personalize each serving for your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover soup in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. This Chicken Rice Soup Recipe keeps its flavors well and actually tastes even better once the ingredients have had time to meld.
Freezing
You can freeze this hearty soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Keep in mind that rice can sometimes change texture when frozen, but the comforting taste remains intact. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat your soup gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. This slow reheating prevents the rice from becoming mushy, keeping each spoonful delightful and satisfying.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs add a richer flavor and remain juicy when cooked. Just adjust the cooking time slightly if the thighs are larger or bone-in.
Is it possible to make this soup gluten-free?
Yes, this Chicken Rice Soup Recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free chicken broth or bouillon. Always double-check labels to be safe.
Can I substitute brown rice for white rice?
You can, but since brown rice takes longer to cook, add it earlier in the simmering process. Be prepared for a slightly nuttier texture and flavor.
How do I make this soup more filling?
Add extra vegetables like peas or mushrooms, or stir in cooked beans or lentils before serving. For richness, a splash of cream can be stirred in at the end.
Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can save time by using pre-cooked chicken, but be mindful to add it at the very end to warm through without drying out. The broth may not be as flavorful without searing the fresh chicken first.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Rice Soup Recipe is one of those cherished dishes that feels like coming home. The way the tender chicken, just-cooked rice, and fresh vegetables come together is utterly satisfying and perfect for any day you want to feel cozy and nourished. I encourage you to make this soup your own, experiment with garnishes, and share it with loved ones—it’s a bowlful of comfort you’ll want to return to time and again.
Print
Chicken Rice Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This comforting Chicken Rice Soup recipe features tender seared chicken breasts simmered with fresh vegetables and white rice in a flavorful broth, perfect for a nourishing and satisfying meal any day of the week.
Ingredients
Protein
- 2 split chicken breasts
Vegetables
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 3 celery stalks, sliced
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
Liquids & Seasonings
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 8 cups water
- 1 tablespoon chicken flavored Better Than Bouillon
- 3 bay leaves
- salt & pepper to taste
Grains
- 1 cup white rice (such as jasmine)
Instructions
- Heat Oil and Sear Chicken: In a large Dutch oven or pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Pat the chicken breasts dry and generously season both sides with salt and pepper. Place the chicken breasts skin side down into the hot oil and cook undisturbed for 4-5 minutes to achieve a brown sear. Flip the chicken and brown the other side for an additional 4 minutes without moving.
- Sauté Onions: Remove the seared chicken breasts to a plate. Add the diced onions to the pot and sauté for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions become translucent and softened.
- Add Vegetables and Broth Ingredients: Stir in the sliced celery, carrots, water, chicken flavored Better Than Bouillon, minced garlic, and bay leaves. Scrape the bottom of the pot gently to loosen any brown bits from the seared chicken, which adds flavor to the soup. Return the chicken breasts to the pot.
- Simmer Soup: Cover the pot and bring the mixture to a boil. Then reduce heat to maintain a gentle simmer and cook for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and chicken to cook through.
- Add Rice and Continue Simmering: Stir in 1 cup of white rice. Cover the pot again and simmer for 10 minutes until the rice starts to become tender.
- Check Chicken and Finish Rice: Remove the chicken breasts carefully and place them on a cutting board to cool slightly. Let the soup continue simmering uncovered for another 5 minutes to ensure the rice is fully cooked.
- Shred Chicken and Combine: Once the rice is cooked, remove and discard the bay leaves. Peel off the skin from the chicken breasts, then cut the meat away from the ribcage and bones. Dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- Serve: Return the diced chicken to the soup, stir well, and serve immediately while hot and comforting.
Notes
- You can use bone-in chicken breasts for extra flavor or boneless for ease of eating.
- If you prefer, substitute jasmine rice with other white rice varieties.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper at the end if needed.
- For a thicker soup, cook rice slightly longer or add less water initially.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
