There’s something deeply soothing about a bowl of Hearty Chicken & Rice Soup—the kind that warms you from the inside out, filling your kitchen with inviting aromas and your heart with nostalgia. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or simply craving something cozy, this soup delivers every time. The tender chicken, fluffy rice, and fresh vegetables come together in a savory broth that feels like a hug in a bowl. I love making this on chilly evenings when I want something wholesome but effortless. You can also tweak it to fit your preferences—try using brown rice for extra nuttiness or swap in wild rice for more texture. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity: straightforward ingredients that turn into something deeply satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Chicken & Rice Soup isn’t just delicious—it’s nutritious, versatile, and meal-prep friendly. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or even a make-ahead lunch. It’s hearty without being heavy, offering lean protein, comforting carbs, and plenty of veggies in one balanced dish. Plus, it freezes beautifully, so you can always have a homemade meal ready to go.
Print
Hearty Chicken & Rice Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Bowl
- Total Time: 45 mins
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A comforting and hearty chicken and rice soup loaded with tender chicken, vegetables, and perfectly cooked rice simmered in a flavorful broth. Ideal for chilly days or when you need a nourishing, wholesome meal.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (preferably rotisserie)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Juice of 1/2 lemon (optional, for brightness)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add onion, carrots, and celery; sauté until vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add chicken broth, thyme, parsley, bay leaf, salt, and pepper; bring to a boil.
- Stir in the rice, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 15–20 minutes until rice is tender.
- Add the shredded chicken and simmer for another 5–10 minutes until heated through.
- Remove the bay leaf and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Stir in lemon juice just before serving for extra flavor.
Notes
- Use brown rice or wild rice for extra fiber and a nutty flavor.
- To make it creamier, stir in a splash of cream or coconut milk at the end.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days; the rice may absorb broth, so add a bit more when reheating.
- Great for freezing before adding rice to prevent it from becoming mushy.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 35 mins
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Chicken: The star of the show! Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs both work beautifully. Thighs add a bit more richness, while breasts keep it lean. I’ve tried both, and each gives a slightly different flavor profile—both equally satisfying.
Rice: White long-grain rice cooks quickly and keeps the soup light, but feel free to use brown rice for a chewier texture. If you have leftover cooked rice, add it toward the end to avoid overcooking.
Carrots: Sweet and colorful, they add depth and balance to the savory broth. Dice them evenly so they cook at the same rate as the other vegetables.
Celery: Essential for that classic soup flavor. It adds freshness and a slight crunch that rounds out the dish beautifully.
Onion: A must-have for building flavor. A simple yellow onion works best for its mild sweetness once sautéed.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic infuses the soup with aromatic warmth. I like using three cloves for a noticeable but not overpowering punch.
Chicken broth: Opt for low-sodium broth so you can control the seasoning. Homemade stock is even better if you have it—it brings incredible depth to the soup.
Olive oil or butter: Either works to sauté the vegetables. Butter adds a richer taste, while olive oil keeps things light and heart-healthy.
Bay leaf & thyme: These herbs transform the broth from good to exceptional. Use fresh thyme if possible for a more fragrant aroma.
Salt and pepper: Simple yet vital. Adjust to taste toward the end to ensure the balance of flavors.
Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley before serving adds color and a refreshing note.
Directions
- Sauté the aromatics: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery, and cook until softened—about 5 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook another minute.
- Add the chicken and broth: Place the chicken pieces in the pot and pour in the chicken broth. Add bay leaf, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the chicken is tender.
- Shred the chicken: Remove the chicken, shred it using two forks, and return it to the pot.
- Add the rice: Stir in the rice and continue simmering until cooked—about 15 minutes for white rice or 30 minutes for brown.
- Finish and serve: Remove bay leaf, adjust seasoning, and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers on the side.
Equipment needed :
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon for stirring
- Sharp knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Ladle for serving
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 6 servings.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 40 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Storage/reheating
Let the soup cool completely before storing. Keep it in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the texture if the rice absorbs too much liquid.
Variations and Customizations
Creamy Chicken & Rice Soup – Stir in a splash of cream or coconut milk at the end for a rich, velvety texture.
Lemon Herb Chicken Soup – Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and extra parsley for a bright, refreshing twist.
Spicy Kick Version – Sprinkle in red pepper flakes or a bit of cayenne for subtle heat.
Wild Rice Blend – Swap white rice for a wild rice mix to add nutty flavor and extra chewiness.
Vegetable-Packed Soup – Toss in peas, spinach, or zucchini for extra nutrients and color.
Rotisserie Chicken Shortcut – Use pre-cooked chicken to save time; just add it near the end of cooking.
Asian-Inspired Version – Add ginger, soy sauce, and a dash of sesame oil for an aromatic twist.
Mexican-Style Soup – Stir in cumin, lime juice, and chopped cilantro for a zesty flavor boost.
Gluten-Free Option – Naturally gluten-free when made with rice and no thickening agents.
Brown Rice Boost – Use brown rice for extra fiber and a deeper flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, it reheats beautifully and can be made 1–2 days in advance.
2. Can I freeze Chicken & Rice Soup?
Absolutely. Let it cool, then freeze for up to 3 months.
3. How do I prevent the rice from getting mushy?
Add cooked rice just before serving or undercook it slightly if planning to reheat.
4. Can I use leftover chicken?
Yes, just add it near the end since it’s already cooked.
5. What type of rice works best?
Long-grain white rice is ideal, but brown or wild rice can be used too.
6. Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes—combine all ingredients (except rice) and cook on low for 6–7 hours. Add rice in the last hour.
7. Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free broth.
8. Can I make it dairy-free?
Definitely. Use olive oil instead of butter, and avoid adding cream.
9. Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, they work perfectly for convenience—just add them directly to the pot.
10. What can I serve with Chicken & Rice Soup?
Crusty bread, simple salad, or garlic toast make great sides.
Conclusion
This Hearty Chicken & Rice Soup is a comforting staple that never disappoints. With its rich flavors, nourishing ingredients, and endless customization options, it’s a recipe worth keeping on repeat. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal-prepping for the week, this soup guarantees warmth and satisfaction in every bowl. I’ve made it countless times—sometimes with almond milk for creaminess, sometimes with wild rice for texture—and it always hits the spot.
Hungry for more? Visit our website for full recipes and follow us on Pinterest for daily foodie inspo you’ll love to pin!