Cozy Chicken and Rice Soup

There’s nothing quite like a bowl of Cozy Chicken and Rice Soup to warm you up from the inside out.

Packed with wholesome ingredients like tender chicken, rice, and hearty vegetables, this comforting soup is a weeknight favorite and a go-to for chilly days or when you need a nourishing pick-me-up.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Comfort in every spoonful: The rich broth, soft veggies, and filling rice make it incredibly soothing.

Easy and flexible: Simple pantry staples and rotisserie chicken keep prep quick and stress-free.

Perfect for leftovers and meal prep: It reheats beautifully and can be made ahead for busy days.

Family-friendly: Mild, flavorful, and nourishing—great for adults and kids alike.

Key Ingredients

Chicken broth: Forms the flavorful base of the soup. Use low-sodium if preferred.

Uncooked rice: White rice cooks quickly; brown rice adds extra fiber and a nutty flavor.

Cooked chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken or leftover chicken makes this a breeze.

Aromatics and vegetables: Onion, garlic, carrots, and celery build flavor and nutrition.

Herbs: Dried thyme and parsley give the soup an herby, comforting depth.

Cozy Chicken and Rice Soup

Ingredients:

2 tbsp olive oil

1 medium onion diced

2 cloves garlic minced

3 medium carrots sliced

2 stalks celery chopped

1 cup uncooked rice white or brown

8 cups chicken broth

2 cups cooked chicken shredded

1 tsp dried thyme

1 tsp dried parsley

salt and pepper to taste

fresh parsley for garnish, optional

Instructions:

Step 1:

Warm the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and chopped celery. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring now and then, until the veggies start to soften.

Step 2:

Mix in the uncooked rice, chicken broth, dried thyme, and parsley. Bring the pot to a gentle boil.

Step 3:

Lower the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for 20–25 minutes (a bit longer if using brown rice), stirring occasionally, until the rice is fully cooked.

Step 4:

Add the shredded cooked chicken and let it simmer for another 5 minutes, or until everything is warmed through.

Step 5:

Taste and adjust with salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot, topped with fresh parsley if desired.

Recipe Notes: Cozy Chicken and Rice Soup

Rice Type Matters: White rice cooks quicker and gives a softer texture, while brown rice adds a nutty flavor and more fiber but requires a longer simmer (30–40 minutes). Adjust cook time accordingly.

Time-Saver Tip: Rotisserie chicken or leftover roast chicken works perfectly here and cuts down prep time significantly.

Flavor Boost: For a richer flavor, sauté the vegetables until they get a slight golden edge before adding the broth. You can also add a bay leaf during the simmer and remove it before serving.

Creamy Variation: Stir in a splash of cream or half-and-half at the end if you prefer a creamier soup, or puree a cup of the soup and stir it back in for a thicker texture.

Rotisserie Chicken Noodle Soup

Poor Mans Prime Rib

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Lemon Lift: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice added just before serving brightens up the flavors and pairs beautifully with the herbs and chicken.

Herb Flexibility: Swap in fresh herbs if you have them—use 1 tablespoon of fresh thyme or parsley in place of 1 teaspoon dried.

Meal Prep Friendly: This soup stores and reheats well, but the rice may soak up extra liquid. Add a splash of broth or water when reheating to bring back the soup consistency.

Add-Ins: Feel free to stir in a handful of baby spinach, frozen peas, or corn during the last few minutes of cooking for added color and nutrition.

Nutrition Information

(Approximate per serving – serves 6)

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Large soup pot or Dutch oven

Cutting board and knife

Measuring cups and spoons

Stirring spoon

Ladle

Recipe Swaps and Variations

Rice: Swap rice for orzo, farro, or quinoa.

Protein: Use turkey instead of chicken for a post-holiday version.

Veggies: Add spinach, kale, peas, or mushrooms for extra nutrition.

Flavor twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of curry powder for a different spin.

How to Store Leftovers

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Add a splash of broth when reheating if it thickens.

Freezer: Cool completely and freeze in containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove or microwave.

Food and Drink Pairings

Bread: Serve with crusty bread, garlic toast, or buttery biscuits.

Salad: A crisp green salad with vinaigrette balances the soup’s warmth.

Drink: Try with iced tea, white wine (like Pinot Grigio), or a light lemonade.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken?

Yes! Rotisserie chicken makes this recipe super easy and adds great flavor.

Will brown rice work instead of white rice?

Absolutely. Just increase the cooking time to around 35–40 minutes and check for tenderness.

Can I make this soup in advance?

Yes, it’s great for meal prep. Just reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

It is naturally gluten-free as long as your chicken broth is certified gluten-free.

Can I make it creamy?

Definitely—just stir in ½ cup of heavy cream or half-and-half at the end.

How do I keep the rice from getting mushy?

Don’t overcook the rice. If making in advance, cook the rice separately and add it when serving.

What’s the best chicken to use?

Any cooked, shredded chicken works—rotisserie, baked, or leftover grilled chicken.

Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, frozen carrots and celery can be used. No need to thaw—just add a few extra minutes to cook time.

How can I thicken the soup?

Simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes, or mash a few cooked veggies to naturally thicken it.

Can I add noodles instead of rice?

Yes, swap rice for egg noodles or pasta—just cook them separately and stir them in at the end.