Description
There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of Chicken and Rice Soup to soothe your soul on a chilly day or when you’re under the weather. Packed with tender chicken, hearty rice, and a medley of vegetables, this soup is a simple yet flavorful dish that brings warmth and nourishment to the table.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, diced carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic, dried thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Add the uncooked rice, reduce the heat to low, and cover the pot. Let the soup simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender.
- Mix in the shredded chicken and continue to cook until heated through.
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
Notes
Serving Suggestions
- Serve the soup hot with a side of crusty bread or buttered rolls for a complete meal.
- Garnish each bowl with freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor.
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice for a bright, zesty kick.
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration:
- Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing:
- If you plan to freeze the soup, consider cooking the rice separately. Rice can become mushy when frozen and reheated.
- Store the soup base (without the rice) in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Add freshly cooked rice when reheating.
- Reheating:
- Reheat the soup gently on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- If the soup has thickened too much, add a splash of chicken broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
By following these tips, you can enjoy the comforting flavors of Chicken and Rice Soup anytime!
