Chicken and Rice Soup

Looking for a delicious and easy chicken and rice soup recipe? Look no further! This soup is perfect for cold winter days, and it can be made in just a few minutes!

Chicken and rice soup is a globally loved comfort food!

From Latin American Caldo de Pollo to Asian Congee, variations of chicken and rice soup exist in cultures worldwide, making it a timeless and universally comforting dish.

Homemade chicken and rice soup is packed with immune-boosting nutrients!

With garlic, onions, carrots, and bone-in chicken, this soup is rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and collagen, which support gut health and strengthen the immune system.

FAQs

1. What makes this chicken and rice soup so flavorful?

This recipe uses a combination of seasonings like oregano, coriander, Adobo, paprika, Sazon, and a caramelization technique that enhances the depth of flavor.

2. Can I use boneless chicken instead of bone-in chicken thighs?

Yes, but bone-in chicken adds more flavor to the broth. If using boneless, consider adding extra chicken bouillon for depth.

3. What type of rice is best for this soup?

Long-grain white rice works best, but you can also use brown rice, jasmine rice, or basmati rice with adjusted cooking times.

4. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker or Instant Pot?

Yes! In a slow cooker, cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours. In an Instant Pot, pressure cook for 15 minutes and let it naturally release.

5. How do I prevent the rice from getting mushy?

Rinse the rice under cold water before adding it to the soup. You can also cook the rice separately and add it before serving.

6. Can I use store-bought chicken broth instead of water?

Yes! Using all chicken broth instead of water makes the soup even richer in flavor.

7. How can I thicken the soup?

If you prefer a thicker soup, mash some of the potatoes or add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water).

8. Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, but freeze it without the rice for best results. Rice tends to absorb liquid and become mushy when thawed.

9. How long does this soup last in the fridge?

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

10. What’s the best way to reheat chicken and rice soup?

Reheat on the stove over medium-low heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of broth or water if the soup thickens too much.

11. Can I make this soup spicy?

Yes! Add extra black pepper, red pepper flakes, or Sriracha sauce for heat.

12. What vegetables can I add to this soup?

You can customize the soup with zucchini, spinach, peas, bell peppers, or corn for added nutrition.

13. Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?

Yes! Turkey, beef, or shrimp can work, but the cooking times will vary.

14. What can I serve with chicken and rice soup?

This soup pairs well with crusty bread, garlic toast, or a simple side salad.

15. Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes! Just ensure the chicken bouillon and seasonings are gluten-free.

Make it

Hearty Chicken and Rice Soup Recipe

A warm, comforting bowl of Chicken and Rice Soup is the perfect meal for any occasion. Packed with tender chicken, flavorful spices, and wholesome vegetables, this dish is both nourishing and delicious.

📌 Recipe Details:

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 55 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 6-8

🥣 Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

3 pounds bone-in chicken thighs
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon oregano
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon Adobo seasoning
1 teaspoon paprika
1 packet of Sazon
1 tablespoon vegetable or avocado oil
1 tablespoon granulated sugar

For the Soup:

1 large onion, diced
2 large carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
4 cups chicken broth
4 cups water
2 potatoes, peeled and cut into bite-size pieces
1 cup rice, rinsed under cold water
1 chicken bouillon cube
1 tablespoon tomato paste
2 bay leaves
Juice of 1 lemon
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Sriracha sauce (optional)
Salt and black pepper, to taste

📝 Instructions:

1️⃣ Season the Chicken:

In a large bowl, season the chicken thighs with garlic, oregano, coriander, Italian seasoning, Adobo, paprika, and Sazon. Toss until well coated.

2️⃣ Sear the Chicken:

Heat a large pot over medium-high heat. Add oil and sugar, allowing the sugar to caramelize slightly. Then, add the chicken thighs and sear until golden brown on both sides. (Note: The chicken will not be fully cooked at this stage.)

3️⃣ Sauté the Vegetables:

Remove the chicken and set it aside. In the same pot, add onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5 minutes until the onions turn translucent.

4️⃣ Build the Soup Base:

Deglaze the pot by adding chicken broth and water. Stir in potatoes, rice, bouillon cube, tomato paste, and bay leaves. Return the seared chicken (including any juices) to the pot. Stir well.

5️⃣ Simmer to Perfection:

Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover and simmer for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.

6️⃣ Final Touches:

After 45 minutes, remove the bay leaves. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper. Stir in lemon juice and fresh parsley. Add Sriracha sauce for a spicy kick (optional).

7️⃣ Serve & Enjoy!

Ladle the hot, flavorful soup into bowls and enjoy this homemade comfort classic!

📊 Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, Approximate)

Calories: 350
Protein: 30g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Fiber: 4g
Sodium: 780mg
Sugar: 4g

This hearty Chicken and Rice Soup is a nutritious, satisfying meal perfect for any season. Whether you’re looking for a cozy dinner or a meal-prep favorite, this soup is a must-try! Enjoy! 🍲✨