If you’re craving a comforting bowl that feels like a warm hug from the inside, this Homemade Chicken and Rice Soup Recipe is exactly what you need. It combines tender shredded chicken, hearty rice, and vibrant vegetables all simmered to perfection in a fragrant broth. The beauty of this soup lies in its simplicity and soul-satisfying flavors, making it a go-to recipe for cozy nights, quick lunches, or whenever you want to share a little love through food. And trust me, once you try this recipe, it’s going to become a cherished classic in your kitchen rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for straightforward, wholesome ingredients that each play a key role in building that beautifully balanced soup. From the aromatic herbs to the fresh veggies, every element adds to the depth of flavor, texture, and color that makes this dish so irresistible.
- Olive oil: Provides a fragrant base for sautéing vegetables, adding a gentle richness.
- Onion: Gives a natural sweetness and depth once softened, the foundation of flavor.
- Garlic: Brings a warm, savory punch that complements the chicken beautifully.
- Carrots: Add a subtle sweetness and vibrant orange color to brighten the soup.
- Celery: Offers a mild, earthy crunch and balances the sweetness of carrots.
- Dried thyme: Infuses the broth with herbaceous warmth and complexity.
- Dried parsley: Adds fresh, green notes that lighten the overall broth.
- Bay leaf: Lends subtle aromatic depth that enhances the soup’s savory profile.
- Salt and pepper: Vital to season and bring all the flavors together perfectly.
- Chicken broth: Forms the hearty, flavorful liquid base that ties everything together.
- Cooked chicken: Tender shredded chicken adds protein and satisfying texture; rotisserie chicken makes this ultra convenient.
- Uncooked rice: Gives the soup its comforting, filling quality as it cooks into soft, tender grains.
- Frozen peas: Stirred in at the end, they add pops of sweetness and a fresh burst of green.
- Lemon juice (optional): A splash brightens the flavors with a refreshing hint of acidity.
How to Make Homemade Chicken and Rice Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Begin by warming olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion and let it cook until it’s soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. This step is essential because it creates that flavorful foundation. Onions have a way of transforming when gently cooked, releasing sweetness that warms the whole dish.
Step 2: Add Garlic, Carrots, and Celery
Next, add the minced garlic, sliced carrots, and chopped celery to the pot. Stir them occasionally and cook for an additional 5 minutes until the vegetables start to soften. These ingredients bring color, texture, and a subtle sweetness that blend harmoniously with the chicken broth.
Step 3: Introduce the Herbs and Seasonings
Now sprinkle in the dried thyme, dried parsley, and drop in the bay leaf. Season generously with salt and pepper. Mix everything well so the herbs release their fragrant oils, infusing the soup with warmth and complexity. This step sets the stage for a deeply comforting flavor.
Step 4: Pour in the Chicken Broth and Boil
Pour the chicken broth into the pot and bring it all to a gentle boil. The broth is the heart of your soup, lending richness and a savory depth that complements the fresh vegetables and tender chicken perfectly.
Step 5: Cook the Rice
Once boiling, add your uncooked rice to the pot. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer gently for 15-20 minutes until the rice is tender and has absorbed much of the broth. The rice will thicken the soup slightly, making each spoonful more satisfying.
Step 6: Add Chicken and Peas
After the rice finishes cooking, stir in your shredded chicken and frozen peas. Let everything simmer together for another 5-10 minutes so the chicken warms through and the peas soften just right without losing their vibrant color or texture.
Step 7: Brighten with Lemon Juice
If you like a little zing, add a splash of lemon juice to brighten the flavors. This small touch makes a surprisingly big difference, cutting through the richness and adding freshness. Don’t forget to remove the bay leaf before serving.
Step 8: Final Seasoning Adjustments
Taste your soup and adjust the salt, pepper, or herbs according to your preference. This final step lets you tailor the soup to your exact flavor desires, making it truly yours.
How to Serve Homemade Chicken and Rice Soup Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra special touch, try garnishing your soup with freshly chopped parsley or a few thin slices of green onion. A sprinkle of cracked black pepper or a small drizzle of good olive oil can elevate the presentation and flavor even more. These little details make the experience feel homemade and lovingly crafted.
Side Dishes
This soup shines as a main course but pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, warm dinner rolls, or a simple side salad. These sides add texture and variety to your meal, making it both hearty and balanced without overwhelming the delicate flavors of the soup itself.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the soup in individual bread bowls, letting guests scoop out soft bread as they eat. Or, add a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream for creaminess. You can also garnish with crispy bacon bits or toasted nuts for an unexpected crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender soup.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. Stored in the refrigerator, it will keep well for up to 3-4 days without losing its deliciousness. This makes it perfect for meal prep or enjoying warm comfort throughout the week.
Freezing
Homemade Chicken and Rice Soup Recipe freezes wonderfully. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers, leaving space for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just remember to thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating to maintain its texture and flavor.
Reheating
Warm the soup gently in a pot over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. You might need to add a splash of broth or water if it has thickened too much. Avoid boiling vigorously to keep the chicken tender and the rice intact.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice works well and adds a nuttier flavor and extra fiber. Just keep in mind it may take a bit longer to cook, so adjust the simmering time accordingly during Step 5.
Is rotisserie chicken the best option?
Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut because it’s already cooked and flavorful. However, you can also use leftover roasted chicken or poach raw chicken breasts in the broth before shredding and adding them to the soup.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
You can adapt the recipe by substituting vegetable broth for chicken broth and omitting the chicken or replacing it with plant-based protein like tofu or chickpeas. The vegetables and herbs will still make a satisfying soup.
What can I do if the soup is too thick after refrigeration?
This is common due to the rice absorbing liquid. Simply stir in a little chicken broth or water while reheating until you reach your preferred consistency.
How do I prevent the rice from becoming mushy?
Cook the rice separately and add it at the very end if you want to control texture precisely. Otherwise, keeping a gentle simmer and not overcooking during the rice step helps maintain a perfect bite.
Final Thoughts
This Homemade Chicken and Rice Soup Recipe is everything you want in a homemade classic: simple ingredients, easy steps, and a bowl of pure comfort. It’s one of those dishes that feels like a hug from your grandmother or a warm reminder of cozy family dinners. Give it a try—you’ll quickly understand why it’s a favorite for so many home cooks. Serve it up, invite someone special to share it with, and enjoy every nourishing spoonful.
Print
Homemade Chicken and Rice Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 15m
- Cook Time: 0h 35m
- Total Time: 0h 50m
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Homemade Chicken and Rice Soup is a comforting and hearty dish perfect for any day. Made with sautéed vegetables, tender shredded chicken, and cooked rice simmered in flavorful chicken broth, it’s a wholesome meal that’s simple to prepare and nourishing. The addition of herbs like thyme and parsley enhances the depth of flavor, while a splash of lemon juice brightens the soup just before serving.
Ingredients
Vegetables and Herbs
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
Liquids and Proteins
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works great)
Grains and Others
- 1 cup uncooked rice (white or brown)
- 1 cup frozen peas
- Juice of 1 lemon (optional)
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent.
- Sauté vegetables: Add the minced garlic, sliced carrots, and chopped celery to the pot. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened.
- Add herbs and seasoning: Stir in the dried thyme, dried parsley, bay leaf, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well to combine all the flavors.
- Add chicken broth: Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Cook the rice: Once boiling, add the uncooked rice to the pot. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until the rice is fully cooked and tender.
- Add chicken and peas: After the rice is cooked, add the shredded chicken and frozen peas to the pot. Stir to combine and let it simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes until everything is heated through.
- Add lemon juice and finish: If desired, add a splash of lemon juice for brightness and extra flavor. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
- Adjust seasoning and serve: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or herbs as needed.
Notes
- You can use leftover cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken to simplify preparation.
- White or brown rice can be used; brown rice may require slightly longer cooking time.
- For a lower sodium version, use low-sodium chicken broth and adjust seasoning accordingly.
- If you prefer, substitute frozen peas with fresh peas or other vegetables like corn or green beans.
- Adding lemon juice at the end brightens the flavor but is optional depending on your taste preference.
- This soup freezes well, but rice may absorb liquid upon thawing; consider adding extra broth when reheating.
