Chicken and Rice Soup
Chicken and Rice Soup is a comforting dish that warms the heart and satisfies the soul. This simple recipe combines tender chicken, wholesome brown rice, and a variety of vegetables in a flavorful broth. It’s perfect for cold days or when you’re feeling under the weather.
Why Make This Recipe
Making Chicken and Rice Soup is a great choice for several reasons. First, it’s easy to prepare and requires basic ingredients that you might already have at home. Second, it’s a healthy meal packed with protein and vegetables. Third, this soup can be customized to your taste, making it a favorite for everyone in the family.
How to Make Chicken and Rice Soup
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 1 onion, minced
- 3 large carrots, peeled and diced
- 1 stalk celery, diced
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
- 5 cups low sodium chicken broth
- 2 chicken breasts, uncooked
- 1 cup brown rice
- 1 cup evaporated milk
Directions:
- Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add onion, carrots, celery, and garlic; sauté until softened.
- Stir in parsley, salt, thyme, and black pepper.
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil.
- Add chicken breasts and rice; reduce heat and simmer until chicken is cooked through and rice is tender, about 20-25 minutes.
- Remove chicken, shred it, and then add back to the pot.
- Stir in evaporated milk and heat through.
- Serve hot.
How to Serve Chicken and Rice Soup
Serve Chicken and Rice Soup warm in bowls. You can add some fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and flavor. It goes well with crusty bread or a simple salad on the side.
How to Store Chicken and Rice Soup
To store Chicken and Rice Soup, let it cool completely. Transfer it to an airtight container and place it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
Tips to Make Chicken and Rice Soup
- For extra flavor, consider adding some diced potatoes or other vegetables.
- Adjust the seasoning to your preference; add more spices if you like it spicier.
- If you’re short on time, you can use rotisserie chicken instead of uncooked chicken breasts.
Variation
You can easily make this soup your own by using different grains like quinoa instead of brown rice or adding beans for extra protein. For a creamier soup, you can substitute the evaporated milk with heavy cream.
FAQs
Can I use leftover chicken for this soup?
Yes, leftover chicken works great! Simply shred it and add it to the soup at the end of cooking.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Just replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the chicken. You can add more vegetables or beans for protein.
How can I thicken the soup?
To thicken the soup, you can add a bit more brown rice or use a cornstarch slurry (mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water) and stir it in while the soup simmers.
This Chicken and Rice Soup recipe is an excellent option for a simple, tasty, and wholesome meal. Enjoy cooking and savoring this delightful dish!
