Chicken and Rice Soup

This easy chicken and rice soup is cozy, hearty, and ready in just 35 minutes. With tender chicken thighs, aromatic vegetables, and fluffy rice simmered in a savory broth, it’s the ultimate bowl of comfort food. Perfect for weeknights, sick days, or anytime you’re craving something warm and nourishing.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This chicken and rice soup is everything you want in a homemade soup—simple, wholesome, and comforting. It’s made with everyday ingredients and requires just one pot, which means fewer dishes and more flavor. The chicken thighs add richness and tenderness, while the rice makes it filling enough to be a full meal. It’s also versatile, so you can adapt it with your favorite herbs, grains, or even leftover chicken.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 medium onion, chopped small

• 3 sticks celery, chopped small

• 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced thin

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 6 uncooked boneless, skinless chicken thighs

• 8 cups chicken broth

• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• 1 cup long grain white rice (such as jasmine)

• Salt & pepper, to taste

• 1–2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Directions

1. Chop onion, celery, and carrots.

2. Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium-high heat. Add onion and celery, and sauté for 5 minutes.

3. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds.

4. Add chicken thighs, carrots, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, and rice. Increase heat to high and bring to a boil.

5. Reduce heat to a simmer, stirring to prevent rice from sticking. Cook for 15–20 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through, the carrots are tender, and the rice is fluffy.

6. Remove chicken, shred it with two forks, then return it to the pot.

7. Season with salt and pepper, stir in parsley if using, and serve hot.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 6 servings. Prep time is 10 minutes, cook time is 25 minutes, with a total time of 35 minutes.

Variations

• Use rotisserie chicken or leftover roast chicken for convenience.

• Substitute chicken breasts for thighs, adjusting cooking time as needed.

• Swap jasmine rice for basmati or cook brown rice separately and stir in before serving.

• Add a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.

• Stir in fresh herbs like thyme, dill, or rosemary for extra flavor.

• For a creamy twist, finish with a splash of cream or milk.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep in mind the rice will absorb broth over time—add extra broth when reheating to restore the soup’s consistency. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. For freezing, make the soup without rice, then add freshly cooked rice when reheating. Frozen soup (without rice) keeps well for up to 3 months.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, but thighs are more flavorful and stay juicier. If using breasts, ensure they’re cooked to 165°F and avoid overcooking.

Do I need to cook the rice separately?

Not necessarily. Cooking rice in the soup thickens the broth and adds flavor, but for better leftovers, cook rice separately and add when reheating.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes. If making ahead, consider cooking the rice separately to prevent it from soaking up too much broth.

Can I freeze chicken and rice soup?

Yes, but for best results freeze it without rice. Add cooked rice when reheating.

What type of rice works best?

Long grain white rice such as jasmine or basmati works well. Short grain rice can become mushy, while brown rice requires longer cooking.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely. Zucchini, peas, spinach, or mushrooms make great additions.

How do I make it gluten-free?

This soup is naturally gluten-free if you use gluten-free chicken broth.

Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken?

Yes, just reduce the cooking time since the chicken is already cooked.

How can I make this soup creamier?

Stir in a splash of cream, milk, or even coconut milk for a creamy variation.

What can I serve with chicken and rice soup?

It pairs well with crusty bread, sourdough, garlic bread, or a side salad.

Conclusion

Easy chicken and rice soup is the definition of comfort food—warm, hearty, and simple to prepare. With tender chicken, flavorful broth, and fluffy rice, it’s a meal that satisfies the whole family. Keep this recipe in your rotation for busy weeknights, cold evenings, or whenever you need a bowl of something cozy and homemade.

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