Name: Chicken and Rice Soup Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil; 1 medium yellow onion, chopped; 6 garlic cloves, minced; 6 cups chicken stock; 4 cups water; 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast; 1 cup long-grain white rice; 1½ teaspoons kosher salt; 3 large carrots, peeled and cut into ⅓-inch-thick rounds; 4 celery ribs, cut into ½-inch-thick pieces; ½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper, plus more for serving; 2 tablespoons roughly chopped fresh dill, plus more for serving; 4 cups loosely packed baby spinach; ¼ cup fresh lemon juice (from 2 lemons)

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 44 reviews

If you’re craving a soul-soothing meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, this Chicken and Rice Soup Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a delightful mix of tender chicken, wholesome rice, crisp vegetables, and fresh herbs all swimming in a comforting, flavorful broth. Whether it’s a chilly evening or you’re simply looking for a nourishing dish that feels homemade and heartfelt, this recipe ticks all the boxes. Plus, it’s easy to make and packed with ingredients that bring balance, color, and texture to every spoonful.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows fresh ingredients neatly arranged on a white marbled surface. In the center, there is a small white bowl filled with white rice. Surrounding it are individual small white bowls holding bright orange carrot slices, light green celery pieces, and finely chopped white onions. To the right, there are two raw chicken pieces resting on white parchment paper. On the left side, there is a bunch of dark green spinach leaves and sprigs of fresh dill. Nearby, a whole yellow lemon is placed alongside small wooden bowls with minced garlic and black pepper mixed with salt. Three small containers with liquids show light yellow broth, oil, and another clear liquid, and one jar holds a light brown broth. The arrangement is clean and natural, making the fresh colors stand out. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Creating the perfect chicken and rice soup is all about using simple, fresh ingredients that come together to deliver beautiful flavor and satisfying texture. Each element plays a vital role, from the hearty chicken and fluffy rice to the aromatic herbs and vibrant vegetables.

Extra-virgin olive oil: Provides a smooth base for sautéing and adds subtle richness to your soup.
Yellow onion, chopped: Adds a sweet and savory depth when softened.
Garlic cloves, minced: Imparts a warm, fragrant aroma that brightens the entire dish.
Chicken stock: The savory backbone of the soup that infuses it with rich chicken flavor.
Boneless, skinless chicken breast: Gives lean protein that becomes tender and juicy after simmering.
Long-grain white rice: Offers a comforting, slightly chewy texture that absorbs the broth perfectly.
Kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the soup’s seasoning.
Carrots, peeled and sliced: Bring sweetness and vibrant orange color for visual appeal and nutrition.
Celery ribs, cut: Adds a subtle crunch and earthy undertones.
Freshly cracked black pepper: Delivers a subtle heat and pungency that livens up the soup.
Fresh dill, roughly chopped: Provides a light, herbaceous note that brightens each bite.
Baby spinach: Adds a lush green color and gentle texture while boosting the nutritional value.
Fresh lemon juice: Just the right touch of acidity to balance and brighten the flavors.

How to Make Chicken and Rice Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics

Begin by warming the extra-virgin olive oil in a large stockpot over medium heat. Once it starts to glisten, toss in your chopped onion and cook it until it’s translucent and soft, about five minutes. This slow softening brings out its natural sweetness. Then add the minced garlic, stirring constantly for about one minute until your kitchen fills with that irresistible garlicky fragrance. This step lays a delicious aromatic foundation for your soup.

Step 2: Cook Chicken and Rice

Next, pour in the chicken stock along with four cups of water to create a robust broth. Add the boneless chicken breasts, long-grain rice, and kosher salt to the pot. Turn the heat to high to bring everything to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer. Stir often to prevent the rice from sticking while cooking until the rice is tender and the chicken reaches a safe 165°F internally. This usually takes around 20 minutes. Once done, remove the chicken to a plate to rest before shredding.

Step 3: Shred Chicken and Add Vegetables

Shredding the chicken is one of those satisfying moments in this Chicken and Rice Soup Recipe, as it transforms the tender meat into bite-sized pieces perfect for the soup. Use two forks to shred the chicken into roughly one-inch strips, then return it to the pot. Add the sliced carrots, celery pieces, freshly cracked black pepper, and chopped dill. Bring the pot back to a boil over high heat, then reduce to medium-low and simmer until the vegetables soften—about 15 minutes. This simmer allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 4: Finish and Serve

To bring freshness and color, stir in the baby spinach and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Let the soup simmer until the spinach just wilts, which takes about three minutes. The lemon juice adds a bright note that balances the richness of the broth without overpowering it. Now you’re ready to ladle this wholesome soup into bowls, garnishing with a sprinkle of dill and a dash of black pepper for that extra pop of flavor and color.

How to Serve Chicken and Rice Soup Recipe

This image shows a white pot filled with a creamy soup that has visible layers of ingredients. The soup has thick, white broth as the base with soft grains and small pieces of light-colored meat spread throughout. Floating on top are bright orange carrot slices and deep green spinach leaves. Small sprigs of fresh dill are scattered over the surface, adding a touch of delicate texture and green color. A long-handled gold ladle rests inside the pot, partially immersed in the soup. The pot sits on a white marbled surface with a light beige cloth underneath, and natural light highlights the colors and textures inside the pot. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh dill and a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper are all you need to top off this soup. The dill complements the mild chicken and vegetable flavors perfectly, while the pepper adds just enough spice to keep your taste buds interested. For a touch of creaminess, a swirl of plain yogurt or sour cream can make your serving feel even more indulgent.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or warm dinner rolls for soaking up every last drop of broth. A light green salad dressed with citrus vinaigrette is also a great choice to add some crisp contrast. If you want something heartier, roasted vegetables or a simple grilled cheese sandwich make perfect companions to your bowl of Chicken and Rice Soup Recipe.

Creative Ways to Present

For a family-friendly twist, serve the soup in bread bowls—just hollow out a round loaf and ladle the soup inside. This not only looks charming but gives everyone something to nibble on. You could also add a poached egg on top before serving to add richness and protein, or sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese for a savory finishing touch that takes this familiar soup to the next level.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Chicken and Rice Soup Recipe stores beautifully in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to four days. Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before sealing and refrigerating. The flavors actually deepen after resting, making your next meal even more delicious.

Freezing

You can freeze this soup for up to three months, which makes it a perfect candidate for meal prep or future comfort food emergencies. Be sure to cool it completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Remember that the rice may absorb more liquid and become softer after freezing, so you might want to undercook it slightly if you plan to freeze the soup.

Reheating

Reheat leftover soup gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. If the soup has thickened too much, just add a splash of water or chicken stock to loosen it back up. For microwave reheating, cover and heat in short bursts, stirring in between to ensure even warmth.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Absolutely! Brown rice will add a nuttier flavor and chewier texture. Just keep in mind it requires a longer cooking time, so you’ll want to add it earlier in the process or cook it separately before adding to the soup.

Is this Chicken and Rice Soup Recipe suitable for freezing?

Yes, this soup freezes well. However, rice can sometimes become very soft after freezing and reheating. To minimize this, undercook the rice slightly before freezing or add cooked rice fresh when reheating.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

You can create a vegetarian version by using vegetable broth and substituting the chicken with hearty veggies like mushrooms or tofu. While it won’t be the classic Chicken and Rice Soup Recipe, it will still be comforting and delicious.

What can I substitute for fresh dill?

If you don’t have fresh dill, dried dill or fresh parsley works well too. Just remember to use less dried herbs since they pack more concentrated flavor. Fresh dill does add a unique brightness that enhances this soup beautifully.

How can I make this soup creamier?

To add creaminess, you can stir in a splash of cream, coconut milk, or blend a portion of the soup with a bit of cooked rice or potato before adding everything back to the pot. This results in a silky texture without overpowering the fresh flavors.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly comforting and satisfying about a well-made Chicken and Rice Soup Recipe, especially when it’s crafted with fresh ingredients and a little love. This recipe is simple enough for a weekday meal yet special enough to warm hearts on a cozy weekend. I hope you enjoy making and sharing it as much as I do!