The Best Homemade Chicken and Rice Soup Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade chicken and rice soup is a cozy classic you’ll want to make again and again. It’s simple, filling, and perfect for any day of the week. You’ll love how it’s packed with tender chicken, fluffy rice, and flavorful veggies in a savory broth. It’s super easy to customize with whatever ingredients you have on hand. Plus, it reheats beautifully, making it a great option for leftovers or meal prep.
Recipe
Homemade Chicken and Rice Soup is a comforting dish that is both nutritious and flavorful. This simple recipe combines tender chicken, hearty rice, and fresh vegetables in a savory broth, making it perfect for chilly days or when you need a wholesome meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups water
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté for 5 minutes until softened.
- Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add chicken broth, water, bay leaves, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
- Add chicken breasts and reduce heat to a simmer. Cook for 20 minutes or until chicken is fully cooked.
- Remove chicken from the pot and shred it using two forks.
- Add rice to the pot and cook for 15 minutes or until tender.
- Return shredded chicken to the pot and heat through.
- Remove bay leaves and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- For a creamier texture, add a splash of heavy cream or milk before serving.
- Substitute brown rice or quinoa for a healthier option, adjusting cooking time as needed.
Equipment
Large pot, cutting board, knife, measuring cups, and spoons.
Time
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Cuisine
American
Serving
Serves 6
Nutrition
Chicken and rice soup is a comforting dish packed with essential nutrients. Here’s the nutritional breakdown per serving.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 kcal |
| Protein | 18 g |
| Carbohydrates | 25 g |
| Fat | 8 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sodium | 600 mg |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my homemade chicken and rice soup with warm garlic bread slices, which are perfect for dipping. A fresh green salad on the side adds a crispy, invigorating contrast to the hearty soup. It’s a simple combo that makes the meal feel complete and satisfying.
Garlic Bread Slices
When I’m serving up a cozy bowl of chicken and rice soup, I can’t resist pairing it with warm, buttery garlic bread slices. They’re crispy on the outside, soft inside, and packed with garlic flavor that melts into the soup. I slather a mix of butter, minced garlic, and parsley on crusty bread, then toast it until golden. The crunch contrasts perfectly with the soup’s creamy texture, and it’s great for soaking up every last drop. Even my picky eaters gobble it up! It’s simple, but it turns a comforting meal into something extra special.
Fresh Green Salad
After enjoying the rich flavors of chicken and rice soup with garlic bread, a fresh green salad adds a bright, crunchy contrast to the meal. I love tossing together crisp romaine, baby spinach, and a handful of arugula for a mix of textures. Then, I add cucumber slices, cherry tomatoes, and a sprinkle of shredded carrots for color. A simple vinaigrette made with olive oil, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt ties it all together. It’s light, invigorating, and balances the hearty soup perfectly. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in extra veggies without feeling like I’m sacrificing flavor.
