Old Fashioned Chicken and Rice Soup is a classic comfort food that brings simple ingredients together in the most delicious way. Tender chicken, hearty rice, fresh vegetables, and flavorful broth combine to create a warm and satisfying meal that is perfect for any time of year.
This easy homemade soup is ideal for busy weeknights, cozy weekends, or meal prep for the days ahead. It is wholesome, filling, and made with pantry-friendly ingredients, making it a recipe you’ll want to keep on regular rotation.
1. Old Fashioned Chicken and Rice Soup Recipe (Yield: 6 Servings)
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 medium carrots, chopped
- ½ cup chopped celery
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or poultry seasoning
- 2 (32-ounce) containers chicken stock
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken, from a rotisserie chicken
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup white rice
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Heat the olive oil in a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften and the onion becomes translucent.
Add the minced garlic and dried thyme or poultry seasoning. Stir continuously for about 30 seconds until fragrant. This step helps release the flavors of the herbs and garlic into the soup base.
Pour in both containers of chicken stock and add the cup of water. Stir well to combine. Add the bay leaf and bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium-high heat.
Once the broth reaches a boil, stir in the white rice. Reduce the heat to medium-low and allow the soup to simmer uncovered for about 15 to 18 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
When the rice is nearly tender, add the shredded cooked chicken to the soup. Stir well and continue simmering for another 5 to 7 minutes until the chicken is heated through and the rice is fully cooked.
Remove the bay leaf and discard it. Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed. The amount of salt may vary depending on the chicken stock used.
Allow the soup to rest for a few minutes before serving. This gives the flavors time to blend together and slightly thickens the broth.
Ladle the soup into bowls and serve warm. For an extra touch of freshness, garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
2. Tips for Perfect Old Fashioned Chicken and Rice Soup
Use rotisserie chicken for convenience and added flavor. It saves time while providing tender, flavorful meat.
Cook the vegetables until softened before adding the broth. This creates a deeper flavor base for the finished soup.
Choose a good-quality chicken stock, as it forms the foundation of the soup’s flavor.
Stir the soup occasionally while the rice cooks to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
If you plan to enjoy leftovers, consider cooking the rice separately and adding it to individual servings. Rice continues to absorb liquid as the soup sits.
Fresh herbs such as parsley or dill can add brightness and freshness when sprinkled over the finished soup.
Adjust the consistency by adding extra stock if the soup becomes thicker than desired.
Allow the soup to cool before storing to maintain the best texture and flavor.
3. Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes. Brown rice works well in this recipe, but it requires a longer cooking time. You may need to simmer the soup for an additional 20 to 25 minutes until the rice becomes tender.
Can I freeze chicken and rice soup?
Yes. The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Keep in mind that the rice may soften slightly after thawing and reheating, but the flavor will remain delicious.
How long will this soup keep in the refrigerator?
Stored in an airtight container, chicken and rice soup will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely. Add the vegetables, seasonings, broth, and uncooked rice to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6 to 7 hours or high for 3 to 4 hours, then stir in the cooked chicken during the final 30 minutes.
Can I add more vegetables to the soup?
Yes. Peas, corn, spinach, kale, green beans, or diced potatoes are all excellent additions that can make the soup even more hearty and nutritious.
4. Nutrition Information
The following nutrition information is approximate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
| Nutrient | Amount Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 310 |
| Protein | 22g |
| Total Fat | 7g |
| Saturated Fat | 1.5g |
| Cholesterol | 45mg |
| Sodium | 760mg |
| Potassium | 520mg |
| Carbohydrates | 37g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugar | 4g |
This Old Fashioned Chicken and Rice Soup Recipe is the kind of comforting meal that never goes out of style. With tender chicken, wholesome vegetables, fluffy rice, and a flavorful broth, it delivers warmth and satisfaction in every spoonful.
Easy to prepare and made with simple ingredients, this classic soup is perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or cozy nights at home. Keep this recipe handy whenever you need a dependable homemade soup that everyone will enjoy.
