Hearty Chicken and Rice Soup

There’s nothing quite like a steaming bowl of homemade chicken and rice soup to bring comfort to the table. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a cozy blanket.

It’s simple, nourishing, and full of familiar flavors.

Tender pieces of chicken, perfectly cooked rice, and a rich, savory broth come together with aromatic herbs and hearty vegetables to create a soup that warms you from the inside out.

What makes chicken and rice soup so special is how timeless and versatile it is.

Every spoonful is packed with nourishment, yet it’s made with everyday ingredients you probably already have in your pantry and fridge.

You can keep it traditional or make it your own with flavorful add-ins like fresh herbs, lemon juice, or a splash of cream for extra richness.

From busy moms to beginner cooks, this recipe is approachable, comforting, and always a crowd-pleaser. So grab a pot, gather your ingredients, and let’s make a bowl of soup that feels like home.

Ingredients

Boneless Chicken Thighs– Chicken thighs are tender, flavorful, and stay juicy while simmering in the soup. They provide the main protein and rich savory depth to the broth.

Cream of Chicken Soup– Adds creaminess and enhances the chicken flavor. It gives the broth a thicker, velvety texture without needing heavy cream or flour.

Chicken Broth– This is the flavorful base of the soup. It simmers with the vegetables and chicken to create a hearty, comforting broth.

Carrots, Celery , and Onion– These classic soup vegetables add natural sweetness, flavor, and hearty texture.

Green and Red Bell Pepper– Bell peppers add color, mild sweetness, and a slightly earthy flavor that makes the soup more vibrant and layered.

Jasmine Rice– Jasmine rice adds a soft, slightly fragrant texture that thickens the soup as it cooks, making it more filling and hearty.

Fresh Rosemary & Thyme– These herbs infuse the soup with earthy, aromatic flavors. Rosemary adds woodsy warmth, while thyme brings a subtle herbal depth.

Salt, Pepper, Cajun seasoning, Onion powder- This blend enhances overall flavor. Salt and pepper balance the dish. Cajun seasoning adds mild heat and Southern-style spice, and onion powder boosts the savory flavor.

Minced Garlic– Garlic adds bold, aromatic flavor and depth to the broth.

Olive Oil– Used for sautéing vegetables and sealing in flavor at the beginning of cooking.

How To Make Chicken and Rice Soup

1. Cook Veggies

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add carrots, celery, onion, bell peppers, and garlic. Cook for 5 minutes until softened and fragrant.

2. Simmer

Pour in chicken broth, add the chicken thighs, and season with salt, pepper, Cajun seasoning, onion powder, rosemary, and thyme.

Stir and simmer over medium heat for about 15–20 minutes, or until the chicken is tender.

3. Cook Rice

Reduce the heat to low. Remove the chicken from the pot and stir in the rice. Cover and cook for about 5–7 minutes.

4. Shred Chicken

Shred the chicken with a fork, then return it to the pot along with the cream of chicken soup. Stir to combine and simmer for another 15 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked.

5. Adjust Seasonings and Enjoy

Adjust seasonings as needed. If the soup thickens too much, add more broth or water to reach your desired consistency. Enjoy!

Serving Ideas

Bread and Crunchy Sides

Nothing pairs better with a warm bowl of soup than something to dip, dunk, or crumble on top.

• Crusty French bread or baguette slices
• Cheddar garlic biscuits or buttery dinner rolls
• Cornbread or sweet honey butter cornbread for a Southern twist
• Saltine or butter crackers, or classic oyster crackers

Toppings and Fresh Garnishes

Simple toppings can add texture, color, and brightness to your bowl.

• Chopped fresh parsley, thyme, or green onions
• A squeeze of fresh lemon for a pop of acidity
• Parmesan, sharp cheddar, or shredded mozzarella
• Crispy bacon bits, fried onions, or crunchy croutons

Storage and Reheating

How to Store

1. Refrigerator

– Lasts 3–4 days in the fridge.
– Store in glass or BPA-free plastic containers with tight lids.

2. Freezer

– Freeze the soup without the rice, and add freshly cooked rice when reheating.
– If already combined, it can still be frozen for up to 2–3 months, but texture may soften.
 – Use freezer-safe bags or containers and leave a little room at the top for expansion.

Tips for Reheating

On the Stovetop:

1. Pour soup into a pot.
2. Reheat over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
3. If too thick, add a bit of broth or water. Heat until hot and steamy.

In the Microwave:

1. Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl.
2. Cover loosely with a lid or microwave-safe wrap.
3. Heat in 30–45 second intervals, stirring between each, until warmed through.