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Chicken and Rice Soup

This comforting chicken and rice soup combines tender chicken thighs, fluffy rice, and aromatic vegetables simmered in flavorful broth. The final dish has a clear, hearty appearance with tender ingredients and a lightly seasoned, bright broth that feels like a warm hug. It’s perfect for cozy nights and makes for a quick, satisfying meal.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Comfort Food
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 pieces chicken thighs boneless, skinless
  • 1 cup long-grain rice or jasmine rice for fragrance
  • 2 carrots carrots peeled and diced
  • 2 stalks celery chopped
  • 1 lemon lemon for juice
  • 6 cups chicken broth preferably homemade
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme or fresh parsley, chopped
  • to taste salt and pepper for seasoning
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Equipment

  • Large heavy-bottomed pot
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board
  • Ladle
  • Measuring spoons and cups

Method
 

  1. Heat a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat and add olive oil. Once shimmering, sauté chopped onions until they turn translucent and start to smell sweet, about 5 minutes.
  2. Add the chicken thighs to the pot and cook until they develop a light golden color on both sides, about 7-8 minutes. Use a spoon to turn them occasionally and listen for a gentle sizzle.
  3. Pour in the chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Add diced carrots, chopped celery, dried thyme, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Cover and let everything cook for 20 minutes, until the vegetables are tender and the chicken is cooked through.
  4. Remove the chicken thighs from the pot and shred them with two forks, then return the shredded chicken to the soup. Stir in the rice and cook uncovered for another 15 minutes, until the rice is tender but not mushy.
  5. Squeeze fresh lemon juice into the soup, stirring to brighten the flavors. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon if desired.
  6. Let the soup rest for 5 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and the broth to thicken slightly. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if you like for added freshness.

Notes

For a richer flavor, use homemade chicken broth and fresh herbs. Feel free to add hot sauce or extra lemon for more zest.