I always find myself reaching for comfort food when the air turns crisp and the days get shorter and one of my absolute favorites to make is chicken rice soup. The aroma that fills my kitchen while this simmers away instantly transports me to cozy evenings spent at my grandmother’s house and she used to serve this soup with warm bread and a smile that made everything feel better.

Over time I’ve put my own twist on her classic recipe and now it’s something I turn to not only during chilly weather but also whenever someone in my family needs a little extra care and nourishment and it’s such a simple dish yet it feels incredibly special because of how nourishing and satisfying it is with the blend of tender chicken fluffy rice and perfectly cooked vegetables all wrapped up in a savory broth that warms you from the inside out.

Ingredients

Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!

Cooked chicken – Adds protein and rich flavor to the soup.
Uncooked white rice – Soaks up the broth and adds heartiness.
Carrots – Bring sweetness and vibrant color.
Celery – Adds a mild, earthy crunch.
Onion – Provides a flavor base and depth.
Garlic – Enhances the broth with aromatic sharpness.
Chicken broth – The foundation of the soup, rich and savory.
Olive oil – Used to sauté the veggies and develop flavor.
Fresh parsley – Brightens up the soup at the end.
Salt and pepper – Simple seasonings that bring everything together.
Dried thyme or Italian seasoning – Gives that cozy, herby background note.

Tools You’ll Need

Large soup pot – Big enough to hold all the ingredients and simmer everything evenly.
Cutting board and knife – For chopping vegetables and shredding chicken.
Wooden spoon – Ideal for stirring the soup as it cooks.
Measuring cups and spoons – Helpful to get the rice-to-broth ratio just right.
Ladle – Makes serving the soup neat and easy.

Instructions

Step 1:

I start by heating a splash of olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat.

Step 2:

Then I add chopped onions, carrots, and celery to the pot. I sauté them for about 5 to 7 minutes until they begin to soften and release their aroma.

Step 3:

Next, I stir in minced garlic and cook it for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 4:

I pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

Step 5:

Once the broth is simmering, I add the uncooked rice along with a pinch of salt, pepper, and dried thyme or Italian seasoning.

Step 6:

I reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 15 to 20 minutes or until the rice is fully cooked and the vegetables are tender.

Step 7:

Now I stir in the shredded cooked chicken and allow it to heat through for about 5 minutes.

Step 8:

Just before serving, I taste and adjust the seasoning and sprinkle in freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and brightness.

Tips

If you’re using leftover rice, I recommend adding it in the last 5 minutes of cooking to prevent it from turning mushy.

I sometimes like to squeeze a bit of lemon juice into the soup right before serving for a fresh kick.

You can easily swap out white rice for brown rice or even wild rice, but remember it’ll need a longer cooking time.

If you’re cooking the chicken fresh, poaching it ahead of time in the same broth gives the soup even more flavor.

Ways to Serve

I love serving this with warm, crusty bread or garlic toast on the side.

For a lighter option, try pairing it with a crisp green salad.

It’s also great on its own as a wholesome lunch or dinner, especially with a sprinkle of extra herbs on top.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze chicken rice soup?

Yes! Chicken rice soup freezes well. I like to freeze it in individual portions. Just note that the rice may absorb more liquid over time, so you might want to add a splash of broth when reheating.

Can I use rotisserie chicken for chicken rice soup?

Absolutely. Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut that adds extra flavor and saves time.

How long does chicken rice soup last in the fridge?

It stays fresh for up to 4 days in an airtight container. Just reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

What vegetables can I add to chicken rice soup?

Feel free to add peas, green beans, spinach, or even corn for a bit of variety and added nutrition.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you give this chicken rice soup a try! It’s one of those comforting recipes I always come back to and I’d love to hear how yours turns out. Feel free to leave a comment below or share your version with me! And if you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to pin it to your favorite cozy meal board for chilly days.

Happy Cooking!