This Chicken Rice Soup is a light, comforting one-pot meal made with tender chicken, soft rice, and simple vegetables. Ready in about 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights, cozy lunches, or when you want a nourishing soup that’s easy on the stomach.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & easy one-pot meal
- Light yet comforting
- Family-friendly and kid-approved
- Budget-friendly pantry ingredients
- Easy to customize with herbs and veggies
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
- ½ cup white rice (uncooked)
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- Fresh parsley or dill (optional, for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add onion, carrots, and celery; cook for 4–5 minutes until softened.
- Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil.
- Add rice, salt, pepper, and thyme.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 12–15 minutes, until rice is tender.
- Stir in cooked chicken and simmer for 2–3 minutes until heated through.
- Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve warm with fresh herbs.
Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
Tips & Variations
- Protein swap: Use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Rice options: White rice cooks fastest; brown rice will need extra time.
- Extra flavor: Add a splash of lemon juice before serving.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Reheating: Add a little broth when reheating, as rice absorbs liquid.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with crackers or crusty bread
- Pair with a simple green salad
- Garnish with fresh parsley or dill
- Add grated Parmesan for extra flavor (optional)
Nutrition Facts (Approximate per Serving)
- Calories: 310
- Protein: 24g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fat: 9g
Conclusion
This Chicken Rice Soup (Light & Quick) is the ultimate easy comfort meal simple, nourishing, and ready fast. Whether you’re feeding your family or meal-prepping for the week, it’s a dependable recipe you’ll come back to again and again. Save it, print it, and share it for cozy soup nights.
FAQ – Chicken Rice Soup
Can I freeze this recipe?
Yes, but for best texture, freeze without the rice and add it fresh when reheating.
How do I make it ahead of time?
Prepare the soup fully and store in the refrigerator, then reheat gently before serving.
Can I use brown rice?
Yes, but increase cooking time by about 15 minutes.
What vegetables work well in this soup?
Peas, spinach, or zucchini are great additions.
How do I keep the soup from getting too thick?
Add extra broth when reheating.