Hearty Chicken and Rice Soup

Hearty Chicken and Rice Soup Recipe - USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Hearty Chicken and Rice Soup is a comforting and satisfying dish that is perfect for a cozy night in or a chilly day. This soup is packed with vegetables, tender chicken, and hearty rice, making it a complete meal in a bowl.

History

Chicken and rice soup has been a staple in many cultures for centuries. It is a simple and versatile dish that can be customized with different ingredients and seasonings. This recipe is a classic version of the soup that has been enjoyed by families for generations.

Ingredients

1 cup chopped onion
1 cup sliced celery
1 cup sliced carrots
0.75 cup uncooked rice
0.25 cup chopped fresh parsley
0.5 tsp cracked black pepper
0.5 tsp dried thyme leaves
1 bay leaf
10 cups chicken broth
1.5 cups 0.75 inch chicken cubes (about 0.75 lb (340 g))
2 tbsp fresh lime juice

How to prepare

In a Dutch oven, combine onion, celery, carrots, rice, parsley, pepper, thyme, bay leaf, and chicken broth.
Bring the mixture to a boil and stir it once or twice.
Simmer the mixture uncovered for 20 minutes.
Add the chicken cubes and continue simmering uncovered for 5 to 10 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked.
Remove the bay leaf.
Just before serving, stir in the lime juice.

Variations

Add some diced tomatoes or bell peppers for a pop of color and flavor.
Use different herbs and spices, such as rosemary or cumin, to change up the taste of the soup.
Swap out the chicken for turkey or tofu for a different protein option.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To add extra flavor to the soup, try sautéing the vegetables in a little olive oil before adding the broth.

- For a thicker soup, you can add more rice or even some cooked quinoa.

- Feel free to customize the seasonings to suit your taste preferences. You can add more herbs or spices for a bolder flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this soup with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal. You can also top it with some grated Parmesan cheese or a dollop of sour cream for extra flavor.

Cooking Techniques

This soup is cooked using the simmering method, which allows the flavors to meld together and the ingredients to cook slowly. This results in a rich and flavorful dish that is perfect for a cold day.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have chicken broth on hand, you can use vegetable broth or water instead. You can also swap out the rice for quinoa or barley for a different texture.

Make Ahead Tips

This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat it on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the soup with some fresh parsley or a sprinkle of paprika for a pop of color. You can also serve it in a bread bowl for a fun and creative presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

This soup pairs well with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. You can also serve it with a light beer or a glass of sparkling water.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the soup on the stove or in the microwave until heated through before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of this soup contains approximately 250 calories. This makes it a relatively low-calorie meal option that is perfect for those watching their calorie intake.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Hearty Chicken and Rice Soup contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are an important source of energy for the body and can help keep you feeling full and satisfied.

Fats

Each serving of this soup contains approximately 5 grams of fat. The fat in this dish comes from the chicken and any added oils or butter used in cooking. It is important to include healthy fats in your diet for overall health and well-being.

Proteins

This soup is a good source of protein, with each serving containing approximately 20 grams. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body, making it an important nutrient to include in your diet.

Vitamins and minerals

Hearty Chicken and Rice Soup is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin C, and potassium. These nutrients are important for overall health and can help support a strong immune system.

Alergens

This recipe contains chicken broth, which may contain allergens such as soy or wheat. If you have allergies or dietary restrictions, be sure to check the labels on your ingredients to ensure they are safe for you to consume.

Summary

Hearty Chicken and Rice Soup is a nutritious and satisfying meal option that is rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals. It is a well-balanced dish that can be enjoyed as a main course or as a comforting snack.

Summary

Hearty Chicken and Rice Soup is a delicious and nutritious meal option that is perfect for a cozy night in or a chilly day. Packed with vegetables, tender chicken, and hearty rice, this soup is sure to become a family favorite.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a treasured one. It was a cold winter day, and I had been feeling under the weather. My dear friend Martha had invited me over for a visit, knowing that a bowl of her hearty chicken and rice soup would be just what I needed to feel better.

As soon as I walked into Martha's cozy kitchen, I could smell the comforting aroma of simmering chicken broth and spices. Martha greeted me with a warm hug and a cheerful smile, handing me a steaming bowl of soup. I took a sip and instantly felt a sense of warmth and comfort wash over me.

"Martha, this soup is absolutely delicious! Would you mind sharing the recipe with me?" I asked eagerly, knowing that this was a recipe I needed to have in my repertoire.

Martha chuckled and replied, "Of course, my dear! It's a family recipe that has been passed down for generations. I'll be happy to teach you how to make it."

And so, Martha patiently guided me through the process of making her hearty chicken and rice soup. She taught me how to slowly simmer a whole chicken with onions, carrots, and celery to create a rich and flavorful broth. She showed me how to cook the rice separately and add it to the soup just before serving, ensuring that it stayed fluffy and tender.

As we stirred the pot together, Martha shared stories of her own grandmother, who had taught her the recipe many years ago. She told me about how the soup had always been a source of comfort and nourishment for her family, especially during the long, cold winters in their small town.

By the time the soup was ready, I could hardly contain my excitement to taste it. Martha ladled out a generous portion into a bowl and handed it to me with a smile. I took a spoonful and closed my eyes, savoring the familiar flavors and feeling a sense of contentment wash over me.

From that day on, Martha's hearty chicken and rice soup became a staple in my own kitchen. I made it for my family when they were feeling under the weather, and for friends who needed a bit of comfort and warmth. Each time I stirred the pot and watched the steam rise from the simmering broth, I felt a connection to Martha and her grandmother, and a deep sense of gratitude for the shared recipe that had brought us together.

Over the years, I have made a few tweaks to Martha's original recipe, adding in some of my own favorite herbs and spices to make it my own. But the heart of the soup remains the same - a nourishing broth, tender chicken, and fluffy rice, all simmered together with love and care.

And so, whenever I make a pot of hearty chicken and rice soup, I think back to that cold winter day in Martha's kitchen, and I feel grateful for the gift of her treasured recipe. It is a reminder of the power of food to nourish not only our bodies, but also our souls, and to bring us together in moments of warmth and comfort.