There is something incredibly soothing about a warm bowl of homemade soup, and this Easy Chicken and Rice Soup Recipe is one of my absolute favorites to whip up when comfort food calls my name. With tender shredded chicken, fluffy rice, and vibrant veggies all swimming in a fragrant broth, every spoonful feels like a gentle hug. Whether you’re nursing a cold or just craving a simple, satisfying meal, this recipe delivers heartwarming goodness without any fuss.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Inside a large white pot, there are three main layers of cooked vegetables mixed together: bright orange carrot cubes, light green celery slices, and small translucent onion pieces. On top, there is a small pile of minced garlic, a single whole bay leaf, and a few green sprigs of fresh herbs. A wooden spoon with a long handle rests inside the pot, partially soaking in the vegetables. Next to the pot on a white marbled surface is a white bowl filled with shredded light beige cooked chicken. A light grey cloth is partially visible in the corner. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Easy Chicken and Rice Soup Recipe is in its straightforward ingredients, each playing a vital role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color. Nothing complicated here—just wholesome staples that come together organically to make something truly special.

Extra-virgin olive oil: Adds a subtle fruitiness and helps soften the vegetables beautifully.
Yellow onion, chopped: Provides a natural sweetness that forms the soup’s flavorful base.
Carrots, chopped: Offer a pleasant crunch and natural sweetness to brighten the dish.
Celery ribs, sliced: Contribute a mild, fresh earthiness balancing the soup perfectly.
Garlic cloves, minced: Bring aromatic depth that wakes up your taste buds.
Fresh thyme sprigs: Impart subtle herbal nuances for a fragrant broth.
Bay leaf: Adds background warmth and enhances all the other flavors.
Chicken stock or broth: The heart of the soup, delivering rich, savory goodness.
Long grain white rice, uncooked: Cooks to tender fluffiness, providing hearty substance.
Shredded cooked chicken: The protein that makes this soup satisfying—rotisserie chicken works wonderfully.
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing tastes.
Fresh lemon juice: Adds a lively, tangy brightness that lifts the whole bowl.
Chopped parsley: A fresh, green garnish that adds color and a touch of freshness.

How to Make Easy Chicken and Rice Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Begin by heating your olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion, carrots, and celery, letting them soften and release their natural sweetness for about 5 minutes. Stir occasionally to make sure they cook evenly and develop a lovely base for the soup.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Herbs

Once your vegetables are tender, mix in the minced garlic along with the fresh thyme sprigs and bay leaf. Cook for just about a minute more to let those fragrant aromas bloom without burning the garlic—a crucial step for that classic savory depth.

Step 3: Pour in the Broth and Bring to a Boil

Next, pour in the chicken stock or broth and raise the heat so the mixture comes to a gentle boil. This is the moment where everything starts to come together, setting the stage for the rice and chicken to absorb all those wonderful flavors.

Step 4: Add Rice, Chicken, and Season

After the broth boils, stir in the uncooked long grain rice and shredded cooked chicken. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. These simple seasonings ensure the dish isn’t bland and allow the natural flavors to shine through.

Step 5: Simmer Until Rice is Tender

Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the soup gently simmer for about 25 to 30 minutes. This slow cooking melds all ingredients into a comforting harmony. Keep an eye on the liquid level, adding an extra cup or two of broth if the rice soaks it up too quickly and the soup feels too thick.

Step 6: Finish with Fresh Lemon and Parsley

When everything is cooked and the rice is tender, ladle your soup into bowls. Brighten each serving with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and sprinkle with chopped parsley—it’s a simple touch that elevates the flavor and adds a fresh, vibrant finish.

How to Serve Easy Chicken and Rice Soup Recipe

Two white bowls filled with chicken soup are shown on a white marbled surface. The soup has multiple layers: a top layer of shredded light brown chicken pieces, small orange carrot cubes, and pale yellow celery chunks, all sitting in a clear yellow broth with specks of green herbs sprinkled on top. The soup includes visible white rice grains that float throughout. Each bowl rests on a patterned black and white saucer. Nearby is a white pot with leftover soup and a black ladle inside. A gold spoon lies partially under one bowl, while a beige cloth napkin and a small wooden plate with lemon wedges and chopped greens are also visible. Fresh green thyme sprigs are scattered around. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A quick squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a sprinkle of chopped parsley are my favorite garnishes when serving this soup. They add a pop of freshness and color that makes every bowl irresistible. Feel free to experiment with a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a gentle kick.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs beautifully with crisp green salads or warm crusty bread to soak up every last drop of the broth. For a heartier meal, try serving it alongside roasted vegetables or a light sandwich—the possibilities are endless!

Creative Ways to Present

To impress guests or simply treat yourself, serve the soup in charming bowls or even hollowed-out bread bowls. Sprinkle some toasted nuts or grated Parmesan on top for an added texture or flavor boost. Presentation is a fun way to elevate this humble, nourishing meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Easy Chicken and Rice Soup Recipe makes excellent leftovers. Store the cooled soup in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually meld wonderfully over time, making the next day’s meal even better.

Freezing

If you want to keep this soup on hand for longer, freezing is a lifesaver. Pour cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some room for expansion. It freezes well for up to 3 months, so you can enjoy homemade comfort whenever the craving hits.

Reheating

When it’s time to enjoy your stored soup, thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, then gently reheat on the stove over medium-low heat. Stir occasionally and add a splash of broth or water if the soup has thickened up too much. Avoid boiling to keep the chicken tender and the rice perfectly textured.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Absolutely! Brown rice will add a nuttier flavor and chewier texture but keep in mind it requires a longer cooking time, about 45 to 50 minutes, so adjust your simmering accordingly.

Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?

Definitely! Swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth and replace the chicken with tofu or more hearty vegetables like mushrooms or beans to keep it filling and satisfying.

Can I prepare this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can! Simply sauté the vegetables first, then combine all ingredients in your slow cooker except the rice, which should be added during the last 30 minutes of cooking to avoid getting mushy.

What if I don’t have fresh thyme or bay leaf?

Don’t worry! Dried thyme works just fine (use about a third of the fresh quantity), and while the bay leaf adds subtle depth, the soup will still taste great without it. You can also experiment with other herbs like oregano or rosemary.

How do I make the soup thicker or thinner?

If you prefer a thicker soup, reduce the amount of broth slightly or cook it uncovered to allow some liquid to evaporate. For a thinner soup, simply add more broth or water until you reach your desired consistency.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Chicken and Rice Soup Recipe has a special way of making you feel cozy and cared for with every spoonful. It’s effortless to make, uses simple ingredients you probably have on hand, and is endlessly adaptable. I hope you enjoy making this soup as much as I do—it’s perfect for any day you need a little extra comfort in your bowl.