Cozy Healthy Chicken and Rice Soup Recipe for Cold Days

Name: Healthy Chicken and Rice Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 medium carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 1 medium yellow onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 1 cup brown rice; 2 tsp fresh thyme leaves; 1 bay leaf; Salt and pepper to taste

Published: May 2, 2025

by Amelia

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Healthy Chicken and Rice Soup is quick to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
Its rich flavor profile combines savory chicken with aromatic herbs and spices
Visually appealing with colorful veggies, it’s sure to brighten your dinner table
Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize based on what you have in your pantry!

I remember one rainy evening when my kids came home from school drenched and grumpy. A steaming bowl of this soup turned their frowns upside down—nothing like comfort food to brighten spirits! For more inspiration, check out this Cream of Chicken Soup recipe recipe.

Healthy Chicken and Rice Soup Recipe

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 chicken breasts for maximum flavor and tenderness; adjust according to your crowd size.
Carrots: Fresh carrots bring sweetness and color; opt for medium-sized ones for even cooking.
Celery Stalks: Crunchy celery adds texture; choose firm stalks for the best taste.
Onion: A medium onion enhances overall flavor; yellow onions work beautifully here.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves release an incredible aroma; don’t skimp on this essential ingredient!
Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control salt levels while still packing in that rich flavor.
Rice: I prefer using brown rice for its nutty flavor; it also offers added health benefits.
Herbs (Thyme & Bay Leaf): Fresh thyme adds depth; toss in a bay leaf for extra flavor during simmering.
Pepper & Salt: Season according to your taste preference, but remember: you can always add more!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prep Your Ingredients: Start by chopping all vegetables into bite-sized pieces—carrots, celery, and onion should shine bright like confetti at a party! Set them aside so they’re ready to mingle later.

Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and garlic until they become translucent and fragrant—this step sets the stage for all those delicious flavors!

Add Chicken and Broth: Toss in the chicken breasts next and pour in the chicken broth. Bring everything to a gentle simmer while stirring occasionally—watch as your kitchen transforms into an aromatic haven.

Add Rice and Veggies: Once the broth is bubbling with excitement, add rice along with carrots and celery. Stir well as vibrant colors fill your pot—this is where magic happens!

Simmer Until Tender: Cover the pot and let everything simmer on low heat for about 20-25 minutes until chicken is cooked through and rice is tender. The aroma will have everyone flocking to the kitchen!

Finish with Herbs: Finally, stir in fresh thyme leaves along with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and let sit for a few moments before serving—it’s worth waiting just a little longer!

Now grab yourself a bowl (or two) of this amazing soup! Enjoy every spoonful while basking in its warmth—it’s more than just food; it’s love made edible!

You Must Know

This Healthy Chicken and Rice Soup Recipe is not just comforting; it’s a hug in a bowl
The aroma of simmering chicken and veggies fills your kitchen, promising warmth and love
Plus, it’s an easy way to sneak in those veggies your mom always wanted you to eat

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing onions and garlic until fragrant, then add chicken to sear for depth. Next, toss in veggies before adding broth and rice for optimal flavor absorption.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap brown rice for quinoa or add spinach for extra nutrients. Experiment with spices like thyme or a pinch of chili flakes for a twist.

Storing & Reheating

Store the soup in airtight containers in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Utilize leftover rotisserie chicken instead of raw chicken; it saves time and adds flavor
Always taste before serving to adjust seasoning, ensuring maximum yumminess
For an added kick, consider a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving

It’s funny how this soup became my go-to dish after my best friend declared it “life-changing.” Who knew something so simple could become the star of our weekly get-togethers?

FAQ

Can I make this soup in advance?

Absolutely! The flavors deepen overnight, making it even tastier the next day.

What can I substitute for rice?

Quinoa or barley work great as healthy alternatives to rice in this recipe.

Is this soup freezer-friendly?

Yes! Freeze portions in airtight containers for quick meals later on.

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