Chicken Rice and Vegetable Soup Recipe for Cozy Meals

Nothing beats a warm, comforting bowl of homemade chicken rice and vegetable soup on a chilly day. This classic soup combines tender chunks of chicken with wholesome vegetables and perfectly cooked rice to create a nourishing meal that’s as satisfying as it is delicious.

Whether you’re nursing a cold or simply craving something cozy, this recipe hits all the right notes with its rich flavors and hearty ingredients.

What makes this soup truly special is its versatility and simplicity. You can easily customize the vegetables based on what’s fresh or in season, and the recipe comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights.

Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up leftover chicken or rice. Get ready to enjoy a soul-soothing dish that fills your kitchen with an inviting aroma and your belly with warmth.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This chicken rice and vegetable soup recipe is a must-try for several reasons:

• Wholesome & Nutritious: Packed with lean protein, fiber-rich vegetables, and comforting rice, it offers a balanced meal in one bowl.
• Easy to Make: Minimal prep and straightforward steps make this a perfect recipe for both beginners and busy home cooks.
• Customizable: Swap out veggies based on your preference or what you have on hand, making it versatile and budget-friendly.
• Family-Friendly: Mild yet flavorful, this soup appeals to adults and kids alike, making dinner an enjoyable experience for all.
• Great for Batch Cooking: Make a large pot for leftovers that reheat beautifully, perfect for meal prep or a quick lunch.

Ingredients

Equipment

• Large stockpot or Dutch oven
• Chef’s knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or heatproof spatula
• Ladle
• Soup bowls for serving
• Optional: fine mesh sieve for rinsing rice

Instructions

1. Prepare the ingredients: Dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces, chop carrots, celery, and onion, and mince the garlic. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear, then set aside.
2. Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in your stockpot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and the onion becomes translucent.
3. Add garlic and herbs: Stir in the minced garlic, dried thyme, and oregano. Cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant, making sure not to let the garlic burn.
4. Cook the chicken: Add the diced chicken to the pot. Stir well and cook for 4-5 minutes until the chicken starts to turn white but is not fully cooked through.
5. Add broth and rice: Pour in the chicken broth and bring the soup to a boil. Once boiling, add the rinsed rice. Reduce heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer gently for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom.
6. Incorporate peas and season: When the rice is tender and chicken is cooked through, stir in the frozen peas. Simmer uncovered for another 5 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper.
7. Finish with fresh parsley: Remove the pot from heat and stir in the chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
8. Serve hot: Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy immediately. This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a light salad.

Tips & Variations

Tip: For an extra depth of flavor, you can roast the chicken pieces in the oven with some olive oil and herbs before adding them to the soup. This adds a lovely caramelized note.

Variation: Swap white rice for brown rice or quinoa for a heartier and more fiber-rich alternative. Just remember to adjust the cooking time as these grains take longer to cook.

To make this soup vegetarian, omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead. You can add more beans or lentils for protein.

For a creamier version, stir in a splash of coconut milk or cream at the end.

If you love experimenting with various vegetables, try adding diced zucchini, green beans, or kale for added texture and nutrients. Remember to add tougher greens earlier in the cooking process to ensure they soften adequately.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This chicken rice and vegetable soup is a complete meal on its own, but it’s also wonderful when paired with some simple sides:

• Warm, crusty bread or homemade garlic bread for dipping.
• A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette to add crunch and contrast.
• Steamed or roasted vegetables on the side for extra nutrients.

For those looking for complementary recipes, you might enjoy our Veggie Quesadilla Recipe Indian Style Easy & Delicious or the hearty Baked Chicken Thigh with Vegetable Recipes for Easy Dinner. If you want to prepare a slow-cooker meal for another day, check out our Vegan Slow Cooker Recipe for Easy, Delicious Meals.

Conclusion

Making a homemade chicken rice and vegetable soup is a rewarding experience that fills your kitchen with enticing aromas and provides a hearty, nutritious meal everyone will love. This recipe is straightforward enough for weeknight dinners yet comforting enough to soothe on a lazy weekend afternoon.

With its flexible ingredients and simple steps, you can tailor this soup to suit your family’s tastes or dietary needs. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a crowd, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire.

So gather your ingredients, warm up your pot, and enjoy a bowl of this delicious, soul-warming soup tonight!

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