This Chicken Rice Soup is warm, comforting, and perfect for a cozy meal. Packed with tender chicken, hearty rice, and flavorful vegetables, itβs an easy and healthy dish that the whole family will enjoy.
π Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs) π
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice π
- 8 cups chicken broth π²
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced π₯
- 2 celery stalks, diced πΏ
- 1 onion, finely chopped π§
- 3 cloves garlic, minced π§
- 1 tablespoon olive oil π’οΈ
- 1 bay leaf π
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme πΏ
- Salt and pepper to taste π§
- Optional: Fresh parsley or dill for garnish πΏ
- Optional: Lemon juice for a fresh finish π
π Instructions:
1. Cook the Chicken:
- Heat the oil:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Sear the chicken:
- Add the chicken breasts or thighs and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until browned. Remove from the pot and set aside.
2. SautΓ© the Vegetables:
- Cook the vegetables:
- In the same pot, add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 4-5 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the Broth and Rice:
- Add broth and seasoning:
- Pour in the chicken broth, then add the bay leaf, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Add the rice and chicken:
- Add the uncooked rice to the pot, along with the browned chicken. Bring the soup to a simmer.
4. Simmer the Soup:
- Cook the soup:
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked through.
- Shred the chicken:
- Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the soup and stir to combine.
5. Serve:
- Taste and adjust:
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or a splash of lemon juice if desired.
- Garnish and serve:
- Serve the Chicken Rice Soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley or dill for added flavor.
β±οΈ Preparation Time: 10 minutes
β±οΈ Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
β±οΈ Total Time: 40-45 minutes
π½οΈ Servings: 6 servings
π₯ Calories: Approximately 250-300 kcal per serving
This Chicken Rice Soup is comforting, nutritious, and perfect for a cozy lunch or dinner. Itβs easy to make and full of flavor! π²ππ