Ret Soup
Introduction
Hearty Chicken and Rice Soup
This comforting and nourishing chicken and rice soup is perfect for chilly days or when you’re feeling under the weather. Easy to make and packed with flavor, it’s a classic that never fails to satisfy.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Chicken breast
450 grams, cooked and shredded
Long grain white rice
200 grams
Chicken broth
1.5 liters
Carrots
200 grams, diced
Celery
150 grams, diced
Onion
150 grams, diced
Garlic
3 cloves, minced
Olive oil
15 ml
Salt
5 grams, or to taste
Black pepper
3 grams, or to taste
Dried thyme
2 grams
Dried parsley
2 grams
Lemon juice
5 ml
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time
35 minutes
Total Time
50 minutes
Yield
4 servings
To prepare the soup, heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion, carrots, and celery, sautéing for about 7 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil. Rinse the rice under cold water before adding it to the pot, along with shredded chicken, salt, pepper, thyme, and parsley. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes until the rice is tender. Finally, stir in lemon juice, adjusting the seasoning if necessary. Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers on the side, and enjoy your hearty chicken and rice soup!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1:
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Step 2:
Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 7 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
Step 3:
Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 4:
Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
Step 5:
Rinse the rice under cold water and add it to the pot.
Step 6:
Add the shredded chicken, salt, pepper, thyme, and parsley to the pot.
Step 7:
Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes until the rice is tender.
Step 8:
Stir in the lemon juice and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
Step 9:
Serve the soup hot with crusty bread or crackers on the side.
Notes
Tip 1:
For added flavor, consider using homemade chicken broth.
Tip 2:
You can use leftover cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken to save time.
Tip 3:
Feel free to customize the soup by adding other vegetables like peas or spinach.
Tip 4:
If you prefer a thicker soup, you can reduce the broth or increase the rice slightly.
Tip 5:
This soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.
Storage Instructions
Refrigeration
Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze the soup in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. To prevent the rice from becoming mushy, consider freezing the soup before adding the rice, and then cook the rice separately when reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen, then heat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through. You may need to add a splash of broth or water to return the soup to the desired consistency.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this hearty chicken and rice soup with warm, crusty bread or crispy crackers for a complete meal. A side salad or steamed vegetables can also be a great addition for a well-rounded dinner. For extra flavor, consider garnishing with fresh herbs, such as parsley or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (approximate):
Calories: 320
Protein: 30g
Carbohydrates: 36g
Fat: 10g
Fiber: 2g
Sodium: 450mg
This comforting soup is rich in protein from the chicken and provides a good balance of carbohydrates from the rice and vegetables. Adjust portion sizes or ingredients to meet dietary needs as required.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you need to make substitutions, consider the following:
– Chicken: Use rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken for convenience.
– Rice: Substitute with brown rice or quinoa for a whole grain option; be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.
– Vegetables: Add or swap vegetables according to your preference; peas, corn, or bell peppers can also work well.
– Herbs: Fresh herbs can replace dried; use about three times more fresh than dried.
– Olive oil: Any cooking oil can be used instead of olive oil, including avocado or vegetable oil.
– Lemon juice: Fresh lime juice can be used as an alternative to lemon juice for a different flavor profile.
Cook Techniques
Sauteing
The process of cooking food quickly in a small amount of oil over medium-high heat. It helps to enhance flavors and soften vegetables.
Simmering
A low and gentle cooking method where food is cooked in liquid at a temperature just below boiling, ideal for flavor development and tender textures.
Rinsing Rice
Washing rice under cold water to remove excess starch, helping to achieve a fluffier texture once cooked.
Seasoning
The practice of adding spices and herbs to enhance the flavor of the dish, which can be adjusted according to personal taste.
Finishing with Acid
Incorporating a splash of lemon juice or vinegar at the end of cooking to brighten flavors and add a refreshing contrast.
FAQ
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but brown rice takes longer to cook, so adjust the simmering time accordingly.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! This soup can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for a few days.
What vegetables can I add?
Feel free to add other vegetables like peas, corn, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free chicken broth and ensure other ingredients are gluten-free.
Can I freeze the soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well. Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
Conclusion
This Hearty Chicken and Rice Soup is a delicious and satisfying meal that brings warmth and comfort to any table. It’s easy to prepare, making it a perfect choice for busy weekdays or when you’re seeking a nourishing dish. With its rich flavors and wholesome ingredients, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Chicken Noodle Soup
A classic alternative that combines tender chicken, hearty noodles, and a flavorful broth, perfect for cold days.
Vegetable and Rice Soup
A vegan-friendly option using a medley of seasonal vegetables and your choice of rice for a healthy and satisfying meal.
Spicy Chicken and Rice Soup
Add a kick by incorporating diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for those who enjoy a spicy twist.
Lemon Herb Chicken Soup
Enhance the freshness of the soup by adding more lemon juice and fresh herbs like basil and cilantro.
Thai Coconut Chicken Soup
Transform your soup into a Thai-inspired dish by incorporating coconut milk, lemongrass, and ginger for a vibrant flavor profile.
Chicken and Quinoa Soup
Swap out rice for quinoa for a protein-packed variation that adds a nutty flavor and chewy texture.
