Chicken And Rice Comfort Soup

Name: Chicken And Rice Comfort Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, diced; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 2 carrots, sliced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 1 pound chicken breast, cubed; 6 cups chicken broth; 1 cup long-grain rice; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups spinach, chopped

Highlighted under: Comfort Food Essentials

Whenever I feel under the weather or just need a hearty meal, this Chicken and Rice Comfort Soup is my go-to recipe. It's simple yet comforting, with tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a medley of vegetables that come together beautifully. I love how quickly it comes together, making it perfect for weeknight dinners. Each spoonful is warming, and the aroma fills my kitchen, creating a cozy atmosphere that feels like a warm hug from the inside out.

Created by

Amber Walsh

Last updated on 2026-02-15T05:57:36.645Z

Making this Chicken and Rice Comfort Soup became a tradition in my home, especially on chilly days. I love experimenting with different herbs and spices to add a unique twist to the base recipe. Swapping in thyme or adding a splash of lemon juice at the end creates a delightful depth of flavor. Each time, I find comfort in knowing how nourishing it is, both for my family and myself.

The real trick is to let the soup simmer just long enough so that the chicken is fork-tender and the rice absorbs all those delicious flavors. I always aim to keep the rice slightly al dente, giving it a lovely texture that contrasts with the juicy chicken and veggies. This is one recipe everyone should have in their hands!

Why You'll Love This Soup
Nourishing ingredients that warm you from the inside out
Hearty and filling – perfect for chilly days
Easy to customize with your favorite vegetables and spices

The Comforting Base

The base of this Chicken and Rice Comfort Soup is designed to be both flavorful and nourishing. The combination of sautéed onions, garlic, carrots, and celery not only builds a fragrant foundation but also adds layers of natural sweetness. Cooking these aromatics until they're soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes, ensures they infuse the broth with rich flavor. Don't rush this step; it’s crucial for creating a soup that warms both body and soul.

Using high-quality chicken broth is another essential step. It serves as the backbone of this recipe, enriching the soup with depth. Homemade broth is ideal, but if you’re using store-bought, look for low-sodium varieties to control the salt levels. The broth’s flavor will directly influence the overall outcome of your soup, so choosing one that you find is delicious on its own will significantly enhance this comforting dish.

Customizing Your Soup

One of the wonderful aspects of this Chicken and Rice Comfort Soup is its versatility. You can easily swap out the chicken breast for shredded rotisserie chicken, especially if you're short on time. This will cut down on cooking time significantly, allowing you to have a warm meal in about 20 minutes. Additionally, feel free to incorporate any vegetables you have on hand; peas, corn, or bell peppers can add vibrant color and nutritional value.

If you're looking to make this soup a bit heartier, consider adding beans or lentils. They will not only enhance the texture but also boost the protein content, making it an even more satisfying meal. Just remember to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as beans may require additional simmering to soften before they can be enjoyed in your soup.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftover Chicken and Rice Comfort Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, do so gently over low heat to prevent the rice from becoming mushy. You might want to add a splash of broth or water to revive the consistency, as the rice tends to absorb the liquid while stored. Stir frequently and keep an eye on it to achieve a creamy, comforting texture upon reheating.

If you want to make this soup ahead of time or freeze it for later, consider cooking the rice separately. Rice can become overly soft when frozen and reheated in the soup, so storing it separately will preserve its perfect texture. You can freeze the soup base and, when ready to serve, just add freshly cooked rice. This way, you’ll have a comforting bowl of soup ready whenever you need it, with textures and flavors intact.

Ingredients

For the Soup

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, diced
1 pound chicken breast, cubed
6 cups chicken broth
1 cup long-grain rice
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups spinach, chopped

Instructions

Cooking Steps

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

Cook the Chicken

Add the cubed chicken breast to the pot and cook until it's browned on the outside, about 5-7 minutes.

Add the Broth and Rice

Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Then, add the rice and thyme. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 20 minutes.

Stir in Spinach and Serve

Once the rice is cooked, stir in the chopped spinach and let it wilt for a couple of minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.

Enjoy Your Soup!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding a squeeze of lemon juice or a dash of hot sauce before serving. This soup keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it great for meal prep!

Serving Suggestions

This chicken and rice soup is delightful on its own, but pairing it with a crusty piece of bread or a side salad elevates the experience. For a touch of brightness, consider garnishing your soup with fresh herbs like parsley or dill right before serving. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds a fresh, vibrant touch that complements the richness of the broth.

Alternatively, you can serve this soup in a bread bowl for a fun and delicious twist. Simply hollow out a small loaf of bread and fill it with the warm soup. This adds an extra layer of enjoyment, as you can spoon the soup and then savor the edible bowl afterward.

Dietary Variations

For those who are gluten-sensitive, it's important to choose a gluten-free chicken broth and substitute regular rice with a gluten-free grain like quinoa or even cauliflower rice. These options provide a unique texture while still allowing you to enjoy the comforting flavors of the soup. Cooking times will vary slightly, so keep an eye on the grain to avoid overcooking.

If you desire a lighter version of this soup, you can easily reduce the amount of chicken and increase the vegetable ratio. Adding more leafy greens, such as kale or Swiss chard, will boost nutritional content and keep the soup filling without the heaviness. This adjustment keeps the comfort factor high while embracing a healthier profile.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but brown rice will take longer to cook. Add it at the same time as the broth and adjust cooking time to about 40-45 minutes.

→ Is it possible to freeze this soup?

Absolutely! Cool the soup completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to mix in any veggies you like! Peas, corn, or bell peppers work wonderfully in this soup.

→ Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can! Simply sauté the vegetables and chicken first, then add everything else to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-7 hours.