When you need a meal that soothes and fills you up at the same time, Chicken Rice Soup is one of the best choices. It’s warm, wholesome, and made with simple ingredients that come together in one pot. This soup is especially comforting on cold days, when you’re feeling under the weather, or when you just want something easy yet homemade. Tender chicken, soft rice, and a flavorful broth make this dish both satisfying and gentle on the stomach. It serves 4 people and can be stored for a few days, making it great for leftovers or meal prep.
Ingredients You’ll Need
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 small onion, finely chopped
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2 garlic cloves, minced
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1 medium carrot, chopped
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1 celery stalk, chopped
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1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
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1/4 teaspoon black pepper
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1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or mixed herbs
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1/4 teaspoon turmeric (optional, adds color and warmth)
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1 bay leaf (optional)
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150 grams boneless chicken breast or thigh
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1/2 cup uncooked rice (white or brown)
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5 cups chicken broth or water with a stock cube
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Juice of half a lemon (optional)
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Fresh parsley for garnish
How to Make Chicken Rice Soup
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrot, and celery. Cook for about 5–6 minutes until the vegetables start to soften and smell fragrant.
Step 2: Add Chicken and Spices
Place the raw chicken into the pot. Add salt, pepper, thyme, turmeric, and bay leaf. Stir to coat the chicken and vegetables in the seasoning. Let it cook for another 2 minutes.
Step 3: Add Rice and Broth
Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, add the rice. Reduce the heat to low and cover. Let the soup simmer gently for about 25–30 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
Step 4: Shred the Chicken
Remove the chicken from the pot and place it on a plate. Use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken to the pot and stir. If the soup is too thick, you can add a little more broth or hot water.
Step 5: Add Final Touches
Taste and adjust salt or pepper if needed. If you like a touch of brightness, squeeze in some lemon juice. Sprinkle chopped parsley on top before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve hot in bowls, with a slice of buttered toast or garlic bread on the side. It’s also great with a small salad or just on its own.
This Chicken Rice Soup is a complete meal in one bowl. It’s gentle, flavorful, and loved by both kids and adults. Whether you’re feeding the family or just need something simple and nourishing, this soup always hits the right note.
