When the evenings grow crisp and you’re craving something warm and satisfying, a bowl of Classic Chicken & Rice Soup is the ultimate comfort. This beloved dish combines tender chicken, hearty rice, and fragrant vegetables simmered gently on the stovetop for wholesome, home‑cooked goodness. Among the best Soup Recipes With Rice, it stands out for being both nourishing and simple to prepare. In this article, you’ll find the heartwarming story behind this cherished recipe, the key ingredients and tools you’ll need, a step‑by‑step guide to the Chicken and Rice Soup Stovetop method, and helpful variations for perfect flavor every time. So, grab your favorite soup pot—it’s time to create a cozy classic.
Why Classic Chicken & Rice Soup Is a Timeless Comfort
A Family Favorite for Cozy Evenings
Every family has that one dish that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, and for many, it’s Classic Chicken & Rice Soup. I still remember the chill in the air on winter evenings when the scent of simmering broth would fill our kitchen. The gentle bubble of a pot on the Chicken and Rice Soup Stovetop meant dinnertime comfort was just minutes away. My mother used to prepare it with care, letting the steam fog up the windows while she set the table with thick slices of bread fresh from the oven.
We’d all gather, spoons in hand, ready to dive into the golden soup brimming with chicken, rice, and tender vegetables. Those simple dinners weren’t fancy, but they made everything feel right with the world. Over the years, this Classic Chicken & Rice Soup Recipe became more than just a meal—it turned into a tradition, a dish we made whenever someone needed cheering up or when the weather called for something cozy. It’s a humble favorite among Soup Recipes With Rice, proving that the simplest flavors often create the most lasting memories.
It’s easy to see why this recipe remains a timeless staple. The harmony of tender chicken, aromatic vegetables, and perfectly cooked rice creates a soothing balance that’s both light and hearty. Unlike some other Soup Recipes With Rice, this Chicken and Rice Soup Stovetop version yields a texture that’s rich yet refreshingly simple—you can taste every ingredient without one overpowering the other.
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Classic Chicken & Rice Soup
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This hearty soup combines tender chicken, aromatic vegetables, and fluffy rice in a savory broth for a comforting weeknight meal. It comes together easily on the stovetop and can be customized with fresh herbs or cream for extra richness.
Ingredients
Instructions
1. Heat olive oil in a large stockpot over medium heat.
2. Sauté onion, carrots, and celery for about 5 minutes until soft.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Place chicken in the pot and pour in chicken broth.
5. Add dried thyme, bay leaf if using, and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 to 25 minutes until chicken is cooked through.
7. Remove chicken, shred with two forks, and return to the pot.
8. Stir in rice, partially cover, and simmer for another 15 to 20 minutes until rice is tender.
9. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: soup
- Method: stovetop
- Cuisine: american
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 2
- Sodium: 600
- Fat: 6
- Saturated Fat: 1
- Unsaturated Fat: 4
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 28
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 20
- Cholesterol: 60
Keywords: classic chicken and rice soup, chicken and rice soup, soup recipes with rice, chicken rice soup, stovetop chicken soup
One of its strongest appeals is convenience. With just a stockpot, a few pantry staples, and about an hour of gentle simmering, anyone can create a delicious, nourishing meal. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding the entire family, this soup fits seamlessly into busy weeknights. Swap in leftover roast chicken, use brown rice for extra heartiness, or toss in seasonal herbs from your garden. However you adapt it, the flavor remains pure, comforting, and always satisfying—the very definition of classic home cooking.
Gathering Ingredients & Tools for Chicken and Rice Soup Stovetop Recipe
Essential Ingredients for Classic Chicken & Rice Soup
Before you start cooking, gather everything you’ll need for your Classic Chicken & Rice Soup Recipe. The right balance of ingredients makes all the difference—fresh vegetables for aroma, quality chicken for tenderness, and the perfect variety of rice for a wholesome texture. Whether you’re experienced in the kitchen or trying your hand at Rice Chicken Soup Recipes for the first time, having your ingredients prepped and measured will keep the process easy and enjoyable.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken breast or thighs | 1 ½ pounds | Boneless, skinless preferred |
| Long‑grain or jasmine rice | 1 cup | White or brown works |
| Carrots, diced | 2 | Fresh for best flavor |
| Celery stalks, chopped | 2 | Adds aroma |
| Yellow onion, chopped | 1 medium | Sweet variety recommended |
| Chicken broth | 6 cups | Low sodium |
| Garlic cloves, minced | 3 | Fresh recommended |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons | For sautéing |
| Dried thyme, salt, pepper | To taste | Optional bay leaf for added flavor |
Using fresh produce brings a crisp, garden‑fresh taste to your Chicken And Rice Soup Stovetop recipe. If fresh vegetables aren’t available, frozen options like carrots, celery, or onions make excellent substitutes. Both chicken breasts and thighs work perfectly; thighs add richness while breasts keep the flavor clean and light. The type of rice you choose determines texture—white rice turns silky and soft, whereas brown rice adds a nutty depth.
Don’t hesitate to make small adjustments. Many Rice Chicken Soup Recipes use additional vegetables like peas, corn, or spinach for extra nutrition and color. You can swap in butter for olive oil for a deeper flavor or use homemade broth for full control over seasoning. The balance of comfort and simplicity is what makes this soup truly special.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
A comforting Chicken and Rice Soup doesn’t require fancy equipment—just a few trusty essentials. Make sure your kitchen is organized before you start for easy, stress‑free cooking.
- Large stockpot (6–8 quarts): Ideal for simmering all ingredients evenly.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for sautéing vegetables without damaging cookware.
- Sharp knife & cutting board: For safe and efficient ingredient prep.
- Measuring cups & spoons: For accurate seasoning and consistency.
- Ladle: Allows for generous serving of soup portions.
- Tongs or slotted spoon: Helpful for removing and shredding chicken pieces.
Preparing Soup Recipes With Rice on the stovetop is about rhythm—sauté, simmer, stir, and serve. Once your kitchen fills with the aroma of herbs and broth, cleanup will be effortless. To make cleanup quick, rinse utensils as you cook and soak your pot briefly in warm, soapy water afterward.
Step‑by‑Step Classic Chicken and Rice Soup Recipe Preparation
Cooking Method – From Sauté to Simmer
Heat olive oil in your stockpot over medium heat. Add chopped onion, carrots, and celery, stirring occasionally for about five minutes until softened and aromatic. This forms the flavorful base for your Classic Chicken & Rice Soup Recipe. Stir in the minced garlic and cook an additional minute until fragrant. Nestle the chicken pieces into the pot and pour in the broth. Add thyme, optional bay leaf, and season with salt and pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer, reduce heat, and cook for about 20–25 minutes until the chicken is tender.
Remove the chicken with tongs and shred it into bite‑sized pieces before returning it to the broth. Stir in your rice of choice, partially cover the pot, and continue simmering on low for 15–20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The soup will begin to thicken and develop a golden color. Adjust seasoning to taste—add more salt, pepper, or herbs as desired. The chicken should be succulent and the rice fluffy, never mushy.
The beauty of this Chicken and Rice Soup Stovetop variation lies in its flexibility. Prefer a lighter broth? Add extra hot stock or water before serving. Want a thicker, heartier version? Simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes to reduce slightly. The goal is a balanced harmony of textures and flavors in every spoonful.
Serving & Customizing the Soup
Once ready, ladle steaming soup into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs such as parsley, dill, or thyme. Add a splash of lemon juice for brightness or swirl in cream for a luxurious finish. If you enjoy experimenting with Soup Recipes With Rice, explore how different grains affect the final texture—white rice creates a milder, velvety base, while brown or wild rice adds a subtle chewiness and nutty note.
Additional vegetables like peas, kale, or spinach add both nutrition and vibrant color. Serve your soup alongside crusty bread or a crisp salad for a complete meal. For presentation, sprinkle each bowl with a dash of black pepper or a hint of Parmesan and lemon zest. Every variation will still deliver the same familiar warmth that makes this dish so enduring among Rice Chicken Soup Recipes.
Common Questions About Chicken and Rice Soup
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I freeze Classic Chicken & Rice Soup?
Yes, but for best results, freeze it before adding the rice. When soup with rice is frozen, the grains tend to absorb liquid and become soft. Instead, freeze the broth base and add freshly cooked rice when reheating for ideal texture.
2. How do I keep rice from getting mushy?
Add rice toward the end of cooking—after the chicken is shredded—and simmer only until tender. Long‑grain or jasmine rice holds its shape better than short‑grain. You can also cook the rice separately and add it right before serving, a technique often used in Soup Recipes With Rice.
3. What’s the best type of chicken to use?
Both breasts and thighs yield delicious results in Rice Chicken Soup Recipes. Breasts offer a leaner texture, while thighs deliver a richer, more savory flavor. Leftover roasted or rotisserie chicken also works wonderfully for convenience.
4. Can I make this in an Instant Pot?
Absolutely. Use the sauté function to cook vegetables and aromatics first, then add chicken, broth, and seasonings. Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes, release pressure naturally, shred the chicken, and stir in rice using sauté mode until tender. You’ll enjoy the same comfort with less hands‑on time.
5. How long does Chicken and Rice Soup last in the fridge?
Stored in an airtight container, it keeps well for up to four days. Reheat gently over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water if the soup thickens as it cools.
Why This Soup Belongs in Your Kitchen
A bubbling pot of Classic Chicken & Rice Soup on the stovetop fills your home with the aroma of warmth and care. Among all Soup Recipes With Rice, this one stands out for its simplicity, versatility, and ability to comfort like no other. Each spoonful is a perfect blend of tender chicken, fluffy rice, and soothing herbs.
Whether you make it as a quick weekday dinner or a weekend ritual, this Chicken and Rice Soup Stovetop recipe proves that wholesome food doesn’t have to be complex. You can enrich it with cream, brighten it with lemon, or expand it with more vegetables—yet it always tastes like home. When the evening air turns chilly, pull out your stockpot and craft this timeless favorite. One simmering pot can warm the kitchen, the table, and every heart gathered around it.
