Easy Chicken and Rice Soup Recipe Classic Comfort in One Pot

Chicken and rice soup is the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. Known for its soothing qualities, nutritional value, and simple preparation, this recipe is a timeless favorite that works year-round. Whether you’re battling a cold or just need a quick, hearty meal, chicken and rice soup delivers.

In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn how to make a delicious version from scratch, discover popular variations, and get expert tips on how to store, freeze, and reheat it—all while ensuring top-tier SEO and readability.

Why Chicken and Rice Soup is a Comfort Food Favorite

There’s a reason people reach for chicken soup when they’re not feeling well. This dish offers a unique combination of flavor, warmth, and nutrition.

It’s rich in protein, vitamins, and hydrating broth
The combination of lean chicken and starchy rice helps keep you full
It’s gentle on the stomach, making it ideal for recovery meals

Chicken And Rice Soup Recipe (1) — Bowl of homemade chicken and rice soup with vegetables and herbs

According to the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, meals combining lean protein with whole grains like rice can support long-term health and energy levels.

When made at home, this soup can be customized to reduce sodium, increase vegetables, and enhance flavor with herbs and spices. The American Heart Association highlights soups as excellent vehicles for heart-healthy eating when made with wholesome ingredients. Check out their guidance on heart-healthy soup ingredients to make the most nutritious choices.

Essential Ingredients for Chicken and Rice Soup

Creating the perfect bowl starts with quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

Chicken: Boneless, skinless thighs or breasts, or rotisserie chicken
Rice: White, brown, jasmine, or wild rice
Vegetables: Diced carrots, celery, onion, and garlic
Broth: Preferably low-sodium or homemade chicken broth
Herbs and spices: Bay leaf, thyme, parsley, dill, salt, pepper

Chicken And Rice Soup Recipe (4) — chicken and rice soup recipe

Optional Additions:

Lemon juice or zest for a citrusy lift
Fresh spinach or kale stirred in at the end
Ginger for an immune-boosting twist

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow this easy method to make chicken and rice soup from scratch:

1. Prepare the Chicken

Cook chicken in advance by baking, poaching, or using leftovers
Shred or dice into bite-sized pieces

2. Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat olive oil
Add diced onion, carrots, celery, and garlic
Cook until vegetables are softened, about 5–7 minutes

3. Add Broth and Simmer

Pour in the chicken broth
Add seasonings and herbs (thyme, bay leaf, parsley)
Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes

4. Add Rice and Chicken

Stir in uncooked rice and simmer until tender (15–20 minutes)
Add pre-cooked chicken near the end to reheat without overcooking

Chicken And Rice Soup Recipe (2) — chicken and rice soup recipe

5. Adjust and Serve

Taste and season with salt and pepper
Remove bay leaf
Garnish with chopped fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon

Variations of Chicken and Rice Soup

This classic recipe is easily adaptable. Here are some popular twists:

Creamy Version
- Stir in half-and-half or coconut milk
- Add a roux (butter + flour) for extra thickness
Greek Avgolemono Soup
- Add beaten eggs and lemon juice for a silky texture and tart flavor
Filipino Arroz Caldo
- Use sticky rice and top with scallions, hard-boiled eggs, and fried garlic
Spicy Twist
- Add chili flakes, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce
Vegetarian Option
- Substitute chicken with chickpeas or tofu
- Use vegetable broth

Tips for the Best Chicken and Rice Soup

Make your soup stand out with these expert tips:

Use homemade broth for richer flavor
Cook rice separately if storing soup for multiple days to avoid mushiness
Add greens like spinach in the final minute to retain color and nutrients
Freeze without rice and add fresh when reheating

Refer to USDA guidelines for safe handling and storing of chicken soup.

Serving Suggestions

This soup is incredibly versatile. Serve it:

With crusty sourdough or whole-grain bread
Alongside a fresh green salad
Topped with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of parmesan

For a heartier meal, double the rice or add cooked beans.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you make chicken and rice soup?
Start by sautéing aromatic vegetables like onions, carrots, and celery in olive oil. Add garlic and seasonings, then pour in chicken broth. Add raw or cooked chicken and rice, simmer until tender, and finish with fresh herbs and lemon juice if desired. It’s a simple, one-pot meal that comes together quickly.

Do you cook rice before adding to soup?
It depends on your preference. Adding uncooked rice allows it to absorb the broth and flavor the soup, but it can become mushy over time. If you plan to store leftovers or freeze the soup, it’s better to use pre-cooked rice and add it near the end to maintain texture.

What is the secret ingredient in soup?
The “secret ingredient” often comes down to umami-rich additions like a splash of soy sauce, a dash of fish sauce, or a bit of grated parmesan. Fresh herbs, lemon zest, or a spoonful of miso can also dramatically boost flavor without overpowering the soup.

What can I add to my chicken soup to give it flavor?
Enhance your soup with:

Fresh or dried herbs (thyme, dill, rosemary)
A squeeze of lemon or dash of vinegar for brightness
Garlic, ginger, or leeks for added depth
Bay leaf, black pepper, or red pepper flakes for subtle heat

How to stop rice from getting mushy in soup?
Use firm rice varieties and avoid overcooking. Add cooked rice just before serving, or store it separately and combine only when reheating. Cooking the rice al dente before adding can help it hold its shape.

What kind of rice is best for soup?
Long-grain rice like jasmine or basmati holds its structure well in soup. Wild rice adds a nutty flavor and chewy texture, while brown rice offers extra fiber. Avoid short-grain or sticky rice, as they tend to become mushy.

What is the liquid in chicken soup called?
The liquid base is known as broth or stock. Broth is typically lighter and seasoned, while stock is richer, made by simmering bones for extended periods. Both work well, but homemade stock provides deeper flavor.

How to thicken up chicken and rice soup?
Thicken your soup by:

Adding a roux (butter and flour mixture)
Stirring in a slurry of cornstarch and water
Blending a small portion of the soup and returning it to the pot
Adding cream or evaporated milk for richness

How long to boil rice in chicken broth?
Simmer rice in broth for about 15 to 20 minutes, depending on the type. White rice cooks faster, while brown or wild rice takes longer (up to 45 minutes). Always check for doneness before serving.

What to add to chicken and rice for flavor?
Try adding:

Lemon juice or zest
Garlic and ginger
Fresh parsley or dill
Seasoned salt or poultry seasoning
A touch of hot sauce or crushed red pepper for heat

Do I put the rice in before the water boils?
No. Always bring the soup or broth to a boil first, then add the rice. This prevents the rice from becoming gummy and ensures it cooks evenly.

Is it better to use broth or stock for rice?
Stock is richer and adds more depth to the dish, especially when cooking rice directly in the liquid. Broth is lighter and works well when paired with strong seasonings or vegetables. Either can be used, depending on how bold you want the flavor.

Conclusion

Chicken and rice soup stands out as one of the most comforting and nourishing meals you can prepare at home. It’s incredibly versatile, easy to customize, and made with ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. Whether you’re making it to soothe a cold, prep for a busy week, or simply enjoy a hearty and wholesome dish, this recipe offers everything you need in one pot.

What makes this soup especially appealing is how effortlessly it adapts to your preferences. You can keep it simple with just chicken, rice, and vegetables, or elevate it with bold additions like fresh herbs, citrus, cream, or spices. The ability to cater to dietary needs—gluten-free, dairy-free, low-sodium—makes it a go-to meal for families and individuals alike.

It also holds up well over time. Make a large batch, enjoy it fresh, and freeze the rest for later. If you plan to store or freeze it, consider cooking the rice separately to maintain the perfect texture upon reheating.

Beyond its practical benefits, there’s something deeply satisfying about a bowl of homemade soup. It connects us to tradition, offers a sense of care and nourishment, and proves that comfort food can be just as healthy as it is delicious.

Mastering a classic chicken and rice soup recipe gives you a foundational dish you can rely on for years. Try different variations, experiment with flavors, and make it your own. However you choose to enjoy it, one thing is certain—this soup never goes out of style.