Description
A classic, comforting chicken and rice soup made with tender shredded chicken, soft rice, and simple vegetables simmered in a flavorful chicken broth. This light and nourishing soup is perfect for any day, providing warmth and wholesome flavors in every spoonful.
Ingredients
Soup Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, diced
- 1 celery stalk, chopped
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
- ½ cup uncooked rice
- 4 cups chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Garnishes
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
Instructions
- Heat olive oil: Place a large pot over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Warm the oil until it shimmers gently.
- Sauté onion and garlic: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic is fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add carrot and celery: Stir in the diced carrot and chopped celery. Continue cooking for another 3-5 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
- Add chicken broth and bring to boil: Pour in 4 cups of chicken broth and increase the heat to bring the mixture to a rolling boil.
- Add rice and simmer: Once boiling, add the uncooked rice. Reduce the heat to low to maintain a gentle simmer. Cover loosely and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender.
- Incorporate shredded chicken: Stir in the shredded cooked chicken. Continue cooking for an additional 5 minutes to heat the chicken through and blend flavors.
- Season to taste: Add salt and pepper according to your taste preferences. Stir well to combine.
- Add optional lemon juice and garnish: If desired, add a splash of fresh lemon juice for brightness and garnish with chopped parsley before serving warm.
Notes
- Substitute brown rice for a healthier option; increase cooking time as needed since brown rice takes longer to soften.
- This soup is excellent for meal prep and freezes well for later meals.
- To make this soup more filling, add extra vegetables like peas or corn.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: International
