Introduction

This Ultimate Cozy Chicken & Rice Soup Recipe is the perfect comfort food for chilly days. It’s a simple, hearty meal that comes together quickly with tender chicken, fluffy rice, and savory vegetables in a rich broth. For another comforting chicken dish, try this Green Chile Chicken Burritos Recipe or this satisfying Easy Hamburger Steak and Gravy Recipe.

Ingredients

This comforting chicken and rice soup comes together with aromatic vegetables, tender chicken, and fluffy rice simmered in a savory broth that fills your kitchen with the most inviting aroma.

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 white onion, diced
• 4 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
• 4 celery ribs, thinly sliced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 quarts chicken stock
• 2 cups water
• 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts (1½ to 2 pounds)
• ¾ cup long grain white rice
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1½ teaspoons kosher salt, plus more for serving
• Freshly ground black pepper
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 green onion, minced, for garnish

Timing

Prep Time	15 minutes
Cook Time	30 minutes
Total Time	45 minutes

Context: This Cozy Chicken and Rice Soup comes together about 25% faster than similar recipes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prep Your Ingredients

Gather all ingredients for your Cozy Chicken and Rice Soup: 1 lb boneless chicken, 1 cup long-grain rice, chopped carrots, celery, onion, garlic, and chicken broth. Chop vegetables into uniform pieces for even cooking.

Step 2 — Sauté Aromatics

Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion, carrots, and celery, cooking until softened (about 5–7 minutes). Stir in minced garlic for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 3 — Cook the Chicken

Add chicken pieces to the pot, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook until no longer pink (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Remove chicken and shred with two forks once cool enough to handle.

Step 4 — Add Broth and Rice

Pour 8 cups chicken broth into the pot and bring to a boil. Stir in 1 cup rinsed rice, reduce heat to a simmer, and cover. Cook for 15–18 minutes until rice is tender but not mushy.

Step 5 — Return Chicken to Pot

Add shredded chicken back to the soup. Simmer for 5 more minutes to let flavors meld. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or herbs like thyme or parsley.

Step 6 — Check Doneness and Adjust Consistency

Ensure rice is fully cooked—grains should be soft but hold shape. If soup is too thick, add more broth or water. For a thicker consistency, simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes.

Step 7 — Rest Before Serving

Turn off heat and let your Cozy Chicken and Rice Soup sit for 5–10 minutes. This allows the rice to absorb more liquid and the flavors to deepen. Stir gently before ladling into bowls.

Step 8 — Garnish and Serve Warm

Top each bowl with fresh parsley, a squeeze of lemon juice, or a sprinkle of black pepper. Serve immediately while hot for the ultimate comforting experience.

Nutritional Information

Calories	285
Protein	24g
Carbohydrates	28g
Fat	7g
Fiber	2g
Sodium	680mg

Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size.

Healthier Alternatives

• Turkey instead of chicken — Leaner protein with a slightly richer, savory flavor.
• Cauliflower rice for white rice — Low-carb alternative that absorbs the broth beautifully.
• Quinoa instead of rice — Adds complete protein and a pleasant, nutty texture.
• Coconut milk for cream — Dairy-free option that adds a subtle, sweet richness.
• Low-sodium broth base — Lets you control the salt level while keeping the cozy flavor.
• Shredded cabbage for bulk — Adds volume and fiber with minimal carbs.
• Lentils for rice — Boosts protein and fiber for a heartier, earthier soup.
• Nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan — Provides a cheesy, umami flavor without dairy.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with warm, crusty bread or buttery dinner rolls for dipping into the savory broth.
• Serve alongside a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the soup.
• Perfect for chilly evenings, family dinners, or when someone needs comforting homemade nourishment.
• Garnish with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the flavors just before serving.
• Use a deep bowl to keep the Cozy Chicken and Rice Soup hot longer and showcase its hearty ingredients.
• Accompany with a glass of chilled white wine or warm herbal tea for a complete cozy meal experience.

This Cozy Chicken and Rice Soup is versatile enough for both casual weeknights and comforting weekend lunches, making every spoonful feel like a warm hug.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using the wrong rice type, which turns mushy. Fix: Opt for long-grain white rice or wild rice, which hold their shape better during simmering.
• Mistake: Overcooking the chicken, making it dry and tough. Fix: Add shredded cooked chicken at the very end, just to warm through.
• Mistake: Skipping the step of sautéing aromatics like onions and celery. Fix: Sauté them first to build a deep, flavorful foundation for your soup.
• Mistake: Adding uncooked rice directly to the broth, which absorbs too much liquid. Fix: Cook the rice separately and add it when serving to control consistency.
• Mistake: Using a weak broth, resulting in a bland Cozy Chicken and Rice Soup. Fix: Use a high-quality, low-sodium chicken broth and season generously.
• Mistake: Boiling the soup vigorously after adding dairy or cream. Fix: Stir in any cream off the heat and warm gently to prevent curdling.
• Mistake: Not tasting and adjusting seasoning until the very end. Fix: Season in layers, tasting after each major addition of ingredients.
• Mistake: Overcrowding the pot with vegetables, which can water down the soup. Fix: Use a balanced ratio of veggies to broth for the perfect cozy texture.
• Mistake: Storing leftover soup with the rice still in it, leading to a thick, porridge-like consistency. Fix: Store rice and soup separately, combining them only when reheating.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Cool your Cozy Chicken and Rice Soup completely, then store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Portion soup into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving space for expansion, and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Thaw frozen soup in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally, until it reaches 165°F for food safety.

For best results, add a splash of broth or water when reheating to restore the perfect soup consistency.

Conclusion

This Cozy Chicken and Rice Soup is the perfect comfort meal for chilly days. If you enjoyed this recipe, try our Crockpot Chicken Fajitas Recipe next. Let us know how your soup turned out in the comments, and subscribe for more delicious recipes!

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FAQs

Can I make this Cozy Chicken and Rice Soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Simply add all ingredients except the rice and cook on low for 6-7 hours. Stir in the rice during the last 30 minutes of cooking to prevent it from becoming mushy.

What is the best way to store and reheat leftovers?

Store your Cozy Chicken and Rice Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The rice will continue to absorb liquid, so you may need to add a splash of broth or water when reheating it on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Can I use a different type of rice in this soup?

You can use long-grain white rice, but avoid quick-cooking varieties as they can become too soft. For a healthier twist, brown rice works well but will require a longer simmering time to become tender in your Cozy Chicken and Rice Soup.