If you’re looking for a hearty, comforting meal that’s easy to prepare, classic chicken and rice soup is the perfect choice. It’s simple, hearty, and comforting—perfect for chilly evenings or when you’re feeling under the weather. This classic chicken and rice soup recipe is packed with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and rice, all simmered in a flavorful broth. Here’s how to make this satisfying dish.
1. Classic Chicken and Rice Soup Recipe (4 Servings)
This recipe is straightforward and comes together quickly, especially if you have pre-cooked chicken and rice on hand.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup onion, finely diced
- 3/4 cup carrots, peeled, halved lengthwise, and sliced
- 3/4 cup celery, sliced
- 1 1/2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 2 1/2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 6 cups chicken broth (low sodium is recommended)
- 2 cups cooked white rice
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
Instructions
Sauté the vegetables: In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften.
Add garlic and seasoning: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, along with a pinch of salt and pepper.
Combine the chicken and broth: Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle simmer. Add the shredded chicken and let it cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Stir in the rice: Add the cooked white rice and simmer for another 5 minutes. Adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper, if needed.
Garnish and serve: Stir in the chopped parsley just before serving. Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy!
2. Tips To Perfect Chicken and Rice Soup
Achieving the perfect balance of flavors and textures in chicken and rice soup doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are a few tips to elevate your soup:
Use homemade or high-quality broth: The broth forms the base of your soup, so using a flavorful chicken broth makes a big difference. If you have homemade broth, it’s worth the effort to use it.
Don’t overcook the rice: Since the rice is already pre-cooked, add it toward the end of the cooking process to prevent it from becoming mushy.
Customize your vegetables: While carrots, celery, and onions are classic, you can add other vegetables such as peas, spinach, or diced zucchini for variety.
Shred the chicken finely: Smaller, shredded pieces of chicken distribute evenly throughout the soup, ensuring you get chicken in every bite.
Adjust seasoning gradually: Taste the soup as it cooks and adjust the salt and pepper incrementally. Low-sodium broth provides more control over the final salt level.
Make it creamier (optional): For a creamier version, add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream before serving.
Add a squeeze of lemon: A small amount of fresh lemon juice brightens the flavors and adds a subtle tang.
3. How To Store & Reheat Leftovers
This soup is a fantastic make-ahead meal and stores beautifully for later enjoyment. Here’s how to keep it fresh:
Storing Leftovers
Refrigeration: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Be sure to leave some headspace, as the soup will expand as it freezes. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Leftovers
On the stovetop: Place the soup in a pot and warm it over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of chicken broth or water if the soup has thickened during storage.
In the microwave: Transfer a portion to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through.
Note: If frozen, thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
This classic chicken and rice soup is not just a meal; it’s a culinary hug in a bowl. With its nourishing ingredients and timeless appeal, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re serving it fresh or enjoying leftovers, every spoonful is a reminder of the comforting power of homemade cooking.
