Chicken And Rice Comfort Soup

Name: Chicken And Rice Comfort Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 1 cup rice (white or brown); 4 cups chicken broth; 1 cup carrots, diced; 1 cup celery, diced; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried rosemary

Highlighted under: Comfort Kitchen Creations

I always find that a warm bowl of Chicken and Rice Comfort Soup brings a sense of solace, especially on chilly days. There’s something so nourishing about the combination of tender chicken, hearty rice, and vibrant vegetables. As I simmer the ingredients together, the aroma fills my kitchen, evoking memories of family gatherings and cozy evenings at home. It’s more than just a soup; it’s a hug in a bowl. Join me as I share a recipe that’s not only comforting but also incredibly satisfying to prepare and enjoy.

Created by

Ivy Richardson

Last updated on 2026-02-10T18:37:36.062Z

One of my favorite aspects of this Chicken and Rice Comfort Soup is how versatile it can be. I sometimes swap out the rice for quinoa or add in extra veggies like spinach or peas for a twist. During one particularly gloomy afternoon, I decided to experiment by adding a splash of lemon juice right before serving, which brightened the entire flavor profile and added a delightful zing!

This recipe shines because it uses simple pantry staples and allows the chicken to infuse the broth with its savory flavor. I find that sautéing the vegetables first really enhances their sweetness, creating a rich base for the soup. Plus, don’t skip the herbs; they add such freshness!

Why You'll Love This Soup
Heartwarming flavors that remind you of home.
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy evenings.
Can be customized with your favorite veggies or grains.

Understanding the Ingredients

The heart of this Chicken and Rice Comfort Soup lies in its blend of ingredients. The combination of shredded chicken and rice creates a satisfying base, while the addition of carrots and celery enhances both flavor and nutrition. Carrots bring a subtle sweetness and vibrant color, while celery adds a necessary crunch and earthiness. Opting for brown rice instead of white not only increases fiber content but also adds a slightly nutty flavor that complements the other ingredients beautifully.

Fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary play a crucial role in elevating the soup's aroma and taste. I recommend using dried herbs for this recipe, as they distribute flavor evenly during the cooking process. If you have fresh herbs on hand, feel free to substitute; just remember to use about three times the amount of fresh compared to dried. The result will be a fragrant, herbaceous note that brings the entire dish together, creating a comforting and inviting bowl.

Perfecting the Cooking Technique

To achieve the best texture in your Chicken and Rice Comfort Soup, it’s important to monitor the cooking times closely. When sautéing the vegetables, aim for them to become soft but not browned—this helps maintain their sweetness and prevents any bitter flavors from developing. Keeping the heat at medium allows for even cooking and avoids burning. If the garlic starts to brown, it can create an acrid taste that detracts from the overall flavor of the soup.

Another tip is to add the shredded chicken at the end of the cooking process. This allows it to warm through without overcooking, which can lead to a dry texture. Stirring in the chicken for the final five minutes of simmering ensures it absorbs the broth’s flavors while retaining its tenderness. By allowing the soup to sit covered off the heat for a few minutes before serving, the flavors can meld together beautifully.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this delicious soup:

Main Ingredients

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 cup rice (white or brown)
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup carrots, diced
1 cup celery, diced
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary

Mix and match these ingredients to suit your taste and enjoy the warmth this soup brings!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your Chicken and Rice Comfort Soup:

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery, cooking until they begin to soften, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Add the Broth and Rice

Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, add the rice, thyme, and rosemary. Reduce heat and cover, simmering for 20 minutes or until the rice is tender.

Combine with Chicken

Stir in the shredded chicken and season with salt and pepper. Let the soup cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Your soup is now ready to serve. Enjoy the warmth and flavor!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, feel free to add a splash of lemon juice or a dollop of sour cream while serving.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This Chicken and Rice Comfort Soup is ideal for meal prep and can easily be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. To store, let the soup cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. For longer-term storage, consider freezing portions of the soup. It freezes well for up to three months, but keep in mind that the rice may continue to absorb liquid over time, resulting in a thicker consistency when reheating.

To reheat the soup, I recommend adding a splash of broth or water to maintain the desired consistency. Heat in a pot over medium-low, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover the bowl to prevent splatter and stir halfway through to ensure even heating.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

For a comforting meal, serve this soup with a slice of crusty bread or a side salad. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice can add a zesty finish that brightens the dish. If you're feeling adventurous, try adding a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt to your bowl before serving; it creates a creamy contrast with the broth.

This soup is highly versatile, so don't hesitate to customize it to your preference. You can add in frozen peas at the end of the cooking process for a pop of color and sweetness. Additionally, for a heartier dish, feel free to incorporate other cooked grains like quinoa or barley in place of rice. Each variation adds its unique touch while maintaining the comforting essence of this beloved dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use leftover chicken?

Absolutely! Leftover roasted chicken works perfectly in this recipe.

→ How can I make this soup gluten-free?

Use gluten-free rice or quinoa as a substitute, and ensure your chicken broth is gluten-free.

→ Is this soup suitable for freezing?

Yes, you can freeze the soup. Just make sure to leave out the rice if you plan to freeze it longer than a month, as it can become mushy when reheated.

→ What can I add for extra flavor?

Consider adding a splash of soy sauce, fresh herbs, or even a hint of hot sauce for a kick!