Easy Chicken and Rice Soup Recipe: Comfort in a Bowl

Welcome to my West Virginia Kitchen!  There's nothing like a warm bowl of chicken and rice soup to bring comfort to your day.   

Whether you're feeling under the weather, craving something cozy, or simply want an easy, hearty meal, this easy chicken and rice soup recipe is a go-to favorite.  Packed with tender chicken, wholesome veggies, and fluffy rice, it's a one-pot wonder that will nourish and satisfy you every time.  I can't wait to share it with you so...

Let's Get Started!

WHY'LL YOU'LL LOVE THIS RECIPE:

• Perfect for Weeknights:  This chicken and rice soup comes together in about 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.  
• Nutrient Dense:  Loaded with protein rich chicken, veggies like carrots, celery, and onions, and fiber-packed rice, this soup is both filling and nutritious.  
• Kid Friendly:  Mild flavors and tender ingredients make this soup a hit with the whole family, even the picky eaters.
• Customizable:  Swap the rice for noodles, add extra veggies, or spice it up with herbs and seasonings for a personalized twist.  
• Comfort Food Classic:  Whether it's cold outside of you need a little comfort, this soup is like a hug in a bowl.

INGREDEINTS:

For this Easy Chicken and Rice Soup you will need to gather a few simple ingredients:

• 2 Tbsp Olive Oil
• 1 Onion, diced
• 3 Carrots, peeled and diced
• 3 Celery Stalks, diced
• 1 Tbsp Garlic, minced
• 1 lb Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast (you can also use rotisserie)
• 4 cups Chicken Stock
• 2 cups water
• 1 cup Rice
• 1 tsp Tarragon, dried
• 2 Bay Leaves
• Salt and Pepper, to taste

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Prepare the Rice:  You can use any kind of rice here you like.  I really enjoy a brown rice medley I find at the store.  Just prepare the rice according to the instructions on the package.  
2. Sauté the Vegetables:  In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.  Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery, cooking for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetable are soft and fragrant.  Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.  
3. Build the Base:  Add the tarragon, salt and pepper to the vegetables.  Let them cook a little in the hot oil.  This will reconstitute the oils in the herbs and give you great flavor.  Add the broth, water, and bay leaves.  Bring to a boil.  
4. Cook the Chicken:  Add the chicken to the simmering broth.  Let simmer for 15-20 minutes.  Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove from the broth.  Shred or dice the chicken and return to the broth.  
5. Add the Rice:  At this point add the cooked rice to the soup.  You can cook the rice in the soup itself, but I like cooking in advance.  It helps the rice stay more firm.
6. Serve and Enjoy:  Taste the Easy Chicken and Rice Soup for seasoning, making any adjustments you feel it needs.  Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.  Serve with warm, crusty bread or crackers on the side for a complete meal.  

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS: 

TIPS AND TRICKS:

• Rotisserie Chicken Shortcut:  Use store-bought rotisserie chicken to save time.  Simply shred it and add it to the soup during the final steps.  
• Avoid Mushy Rice:  If you are cooking ahead of time, cook the rice separately and add it just before serving to prevent it from becoming too soft.  
• Add More Veggies:  Feel free to toss in any extra vegetables you have on hand, like zucchini, spinach, or peas.  
• Freeze for Later:  This soup freezes beautifully!  Store in airtight containers for up to 3 months.  When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove.  

FAQs:

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Absolutely!  Brown rice adds more fiber and nutrients.  Just note that brown rice takes longer to cook, so it's best to cook it separately before adding it to the soup.  

How do I store leftovers?

Leftover chicken and rice soup can be stored in an airtight container  in the fridge for up to 4 days.  Reheat on the stove or microwave.  

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can!  Simply add all the ingredients (except the cooked rice) to your crockpot.  Cook on LOW for 4-6 hours.  Stir in cooked rice just before serving.  

This Easy Chicken and Rice Soup is a cozy, no-fuss meal that's perfect for any night of the week.  It's versatile, nutritious, and so simple to make.  Whether you're feeding the family or looking to meal prep for the week, this recipe is bound to become a household favorite.  Serve it with crusty bread or a side for a complete meal.  

And as always...

Happy Eatin' Y'all! 
~The Kitchen Wife~