basic chicken and rice soup recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
Jump to Recipe Jump to Video Print Recipe
Table of Contents▼

The Best basic chicken and rice soup recipe

I’ve been making this basic chicken and rice soup recipe for years, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser. It’s a simple yet satisfying meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

My family loves it because it’s easy to customize with their favorite vegetables and seasonings. I love it because it’s a great way to get everyone to eat something healthy and delicious.

The best part is that it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring only a few ingredients and minimal preparation time. I like to think of it as a comfort food staple, but with the added bonus of being relatively light and nutritious.

Over the years, I’ve tweaked the recipe to suit our tastes, but the core ingredients remain the same. It’s a versatile dish that can be made in large batches or scaled down for a smaller family.

Whether you’re in the mood for something hearty and warming or just need a quick fix, this chicken and rice soup is always a good idea. It’s one of those recipes that never fails to put a smile on my face and fill my belly with satisfaction.

Basic Chicken and Rice Soup

4.8 from 1470 votes

A comforting and easy-to-make soup featuring tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a savory broth. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

Main Ingredients

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup long grain white rice
1 medium onion, diced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
8 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 bay leaf
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2Add onion, carrots, and celery.
3Cook until vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
4Stir occasionally to prevent burning, and add garlic.
5Cook for 1 more minute, until fragrant.
6Add chicken breasts to the pot.
7Cook until chicken is browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
8Remove chicken from pot and set aside.
9Add diced tomatoes, chicken broth, bay leaf, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper.
10Stir well to combine.
11Bring to a boil over high heat.
12Once boiling, reduce heat to medium-low.
13Add rice to the pot.
14Stir well to combine.
15Cook, partially covered, for 20 minutes.
16The soup should be bubbling gently, and the rice should be tender and the chicken should be cooked through to the center.
17Remove chicken from pot, shred or dice it into bite-sized pieces.
18Return chicken to the pot.
19Stir well to combine.
20Cook for an additional 5 minutes, until the soup is heated through and the flavors have melded.
21Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
22Remove bay leaf before serving.
23Ladle soup into bowls and serve hot.
24Enjoy your basic chicken and rice soup.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 10g💛Saturated Fat: 2g❤️Cholesterol: 70mg🧂Sodium: 800mg🌾Total Carbs: 35g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 30g

📝Notes

Tips: You can substitute whole grain rice for a healthier option. Add spinach or kale for extra nutrition. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.

Watch Video Of How Basic Chicken and Rice Soup Works

This basic chicken and rice soup recipe has become a staple in our household over the years. It’s easy to make in large quantities and freezes beautifully for later use.

When reheating leftovers, I like to add some fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for an extra burst of flavor. For special occasions or gatherings, I’ll often serve this soup as a comforting side dish or even use it as a base for more elaborate soups by adding different spices and ingredients.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Basic Chicken and Rice Soup

What type of chicken is best for this recipe?

You can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, whichever you prefer. If you’re looking for leaner meat, breasts are the way to go. If you want more flavor and moisture, go with thighs.

Can I use leftover rice?

Yes, you can definitely use leftover rice if you have some on hand. However, keep in mind that the texture may not be as fluffy as freshly cooked rice.

How long does this soup take to cook?

This recipe should take about 30-40 minutes to cook, depending on how quickly your chicken cooks and how much liquid you prefer in your soup.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours or freeze it for up to 2 months. When reheating, make sure the soup is hot before serving.

What if I don’t have chicken broth?

You can substitute chicken broth with beef broth or vegetable broth if you don’t have any on hand.

Can I add other vegetables besides carrots and peas?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables such as diced potatoes, sliced bell peppers, chopped celery, or even some frozen corn kernels.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

Similar Posts