Chicken And Rice Comfort Soup

Name: Chicken And Rice Comfort Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 carrots, chopped; 2 celery stalks, chopped; 4 cups chicken broth; 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 1 cup uncooked rice; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Fresh parsley, for garnish

Highlighted under: Warm Comfort Food Inspiration

I’ve always found solace in a comforting bowl of Chicken and Rice Comfort Soup. It combines tender, juicy chicken with fluffy rice and a medley of vegetables, offering a delightful hug in a bowl. Whenever I’m in need of something cozy, this soup comes to the rescue, simmered to bring out all the flavors. The best part? It’s incredibly simple to make, allowing me to whip it up on a busy weeknight or when I need a little extra comfort on a chilly day.

Created by

Pippa Lawson

Last updated on 2026-02-14T22:21:36.198Z

In my journey to perfect this soup, I experimented with various herbs and spices to elevate the flavor profile. While I originally used just salt and pepper, I discovered that a pinch of thyme and a squeeze of lemon at the end took it to a whole new level. It’s those little tweaks that make all the difference and transform a basic soup into something extraordinary.

Another tip I’ve learned is to use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken to save time without compromising taste. Each bowl is a reminder of warm family dinners, nourishing both body and soul. This soup truly embodies the comfort of home-cooked meals.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Hearty and satisfying for the whole family
Nutritious ingredients keep you feeling great
Perfect for cold days or when you need a pick-me-up

Understanding the Ingredients

Each ingredient in this Chicken and Rice Comfort Soup plays a crucial role in building flavor and texture. The aromatic base of onion and garlic sets the stage, adding depth and warmth to the broth. Carrots and celery not only contribute a slight sweetness and crunch, but they also provide essential nutrients, making this soup a wholesome choice for any day of the week.

Using good quality chicken broth is key to enhancing the soup's flavor. If you have homemade broth, use it for a richer taste. Otherwise, choose a low-sodium variety to control the salt levels. For the chicken, leftover cooked chicken works perfectly and saves time. Just ensure it's shredded into manageable pieces for even distribution throughout the soup.

Cooking Techniques for Success

Sautéing the vegetables properly is vital for developing the soup's foundation. Make sure to cook the onions until they're translucent, which usually takes about 5 minutes. This step releases their natural sweetness. Avoid rushing this stage by using too high of heat, as it can lead to burning the garlic or onions, leaving a bitter taste.

When adding the rice, ensure the broth is at a rolling boil before reducing the heat. This helps the rice cook evenly, absorbing all the flavors of the soup. Stir occasionally during the simmering phase; this will prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom of the pot and ensure a creamy texture.

Ingredients

For the Soup

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 carrots, chopped
2 celery stalks, chopped
4 cups chicken broth
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 cup uncooked rice
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Fresh parsley, for garnish

Be sure to adjust the seasoning according to your taste preference!

Instructions

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent.

Add Broth and Chicken

Stir in the chopped carrots and celery, cooking for about 5 minutes. Then add the chicken broth and shredded chicken, bringing the mixture to a boil.

Cook the Rice

Once boiling, add the uncooked rice and dried thyme. Reduce the heat to low, covering the pot and let it simmer for about 20 minutes or until the rice is fully cooked.

Final Touches

After the rice is cooked, stir in the lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Enjoy your comforting bowl of soup with crusty bread or a side salad!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a bay leaf during the simmering process and remove it before serving. This soup also freezes well, making it perfect for meal prep!

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This Chicken and Rice Comfort Soup stores very well! If you have leftovers, let the soup cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, and flavors will continue to deepen as it sits. Just reheat gently on the stove over low heat to avoid overcooking the rice.

For longer storage, freeze the soup in portion-sized containers. It can last in the freezer for about 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and warm it through on the stove. If the rice has absorbed too much broth during storage, simply add a splash of water or additional broth while reheating.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

Feel free to customize this soup by incorporating your favorite vegetables like peas, spinach, or green beans. They can be added during the last few minutes of cooking for a vibrant color and extra nutrients. If you prefer a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to give it a comforting kick.

For a heartier meal, serve this soup with crusty bread or flaky biscuits on the side. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese or a dollop of sour cream can enhance the flavor, making it even more indulgent. Pair it with a simple side salad for a well-rounded dinner.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, you can use brown rice, but keep in mind that it will require a longer cooking time.

→ Is it possible to make this soup in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Just add all the ingredients and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

→ What vegetables can I add to this soup?

Feel free to add vegetables like peas, corn, or green beans for extra nutrition and flavor.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.