Easy Chicken and Rice Soup

 Here’s a comforting and easy recipe for Chicken and Rice Soup, perfect for a cozy meal that’s simple to prepare.

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Ingredients

2 tbsp olive oil

1 medium onion, diced

2 carrots, peeled and diced

2 celery stalks, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

6 cups chicken broth

1 cup cooked chicken, shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken works great)

1 cup uncooked white or brown rice

1 tsp dried thyme

1/2 tsp dried parsley

Salt and pepper, to taste

1 bay leaf (optional)

1 cup spinach or kale (optional, for added greens)

Juice of 1 lemon (optional, for brightening the flavor)

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Instructions

1. Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.

Add the onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté for 5-7 minutes, until softened.

Add the garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.

2. Simmer the Soup

Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.

Add the rice, thyme, parsley, salt, pepper, and bay leaf (if using).

Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and tender.

3. Add the Chicken and Greens

Stir in the shredded or diced chicken and spinach or kale, if using.

Continue to simmer for another 5–7 minutes until the chicken is heated through and the greens are wilted.

4. Finish the Soup

Remove the bay leaf, if used.

Add a squeeze of lemon juice to taste for a fresh, bright flavor.

5. Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls and serve warm.

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Tips

For a richer flavor, use homemade chicken broth or add a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half at the end.

You can substitute rice with noodles or quinoa for a different texture.

Add more vegetables like peas, corn, or zucchini for extra nutrition and variety.

Enjoy this hearty and easy Chicken and Rice Soup, a comforting bowl of warmth perfect for chilly days!