Name: Easy Chicken and Rice Lunch Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 medium yellow onion (finely chopped); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 2 medium carrots (chopped); ½ cup celery (chopped); ½ teaspoon dried thyme (or poultry seasoning); 1 leaf bay leaf; 64 ounces low sodium chicken stock ((2 32-ounce containers)); 1 cup water; 1 cup long grain white rice; 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (from a rotisserie chicken)

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Whenever I think of comfort food, the first thing that comes to mind is Easy Chicken and Rice Lunch Soup. There’s just something so cozy about a steaming bowl of soup on a chilly winter day. I remember being a kid, coming home from school, and the aroma of this delicious soup wafting through the house. My mom always had it simmering on the stove, and it became a go-to for those busy weekdays. It’s not just about the flavors; it’s about the warmth and nostalgia that wraps around you like a favorite blanket. This soup has become a staple in my own kitchen, especially when life gets hectic. It’s a simple yet satisfying dish that warms the soul and is perfect for lunch or dinner. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a bowl of goodness that brings back those cherished memories.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
40 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
30 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
320 kcal

Protein:
25 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free

Fat:
10 g

Tools Used:
Soup Pot, Thermos

Why This Easy Chicken and Rice Lunch Soup Hits Different

It’s Incredibly Easy to Make

One of the best things about Easy Chicken and Rice Lunch Soup is how simple it is to prepare. There’s no need for complex techniques or hard-to-find ingredients. Everything comes together effortlessly, making it perfect for anyone, whether you’re a novice cook or an experienced chef. You can have it bubbling away on the stove in no time!

Nutritious and Satisfying

This soup is not only delicious but also a wholesome meal. Packed with veggies like carrots and celery, along with tender pieces of chicken, it’s a meal you can feel good about serving your family. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover chicken from the night before!

Perfect for Meal Prep

Whenever I make a batch of Easy Chicken and Rice Lunch Soup, I always prepare a little extra. It stores beautifully! You can pack it up in individual containers, making it an ideal choice for meal prep. Just heat it up for a quick lunch or dinner during the week!

Customizable to Your Taste

Another great aspect of this recipe is its versatility. You can easily swap in your favorite vegetables or even adjust the spices to suit your taste. Whether you prefer more herbs or a touch of spice, it’s your soup, and you can make it exactly how you love it!

Kids Love It!

Getting kids to eat healthy can sometimes feel like a challenge, but my children absolutely adore this soup! The rice adds a fun texture, and it’s easy for them to eat. Plus, it looks inviting and is warm, which makes it a hit at the dinner table. They often ask for seconds!

Perfect for Cold Days

On those cold winter days, there’s nothing like curling up with a hot bowl of Easy Chicken and Rice Lunch Soup. It’s one of those meals that warms you from the inside out, providing that much-needed comfort. Whether you’re fighting off a cold or just want something hearty, this soup is a go-to!

What to Buy for Easy Chicken and Rice Lunch Soup

To make Easy Chicken and Rice Lunch Soup, you’ll need some basic ingredients that work harmoniously together. The combination of fresh vegetables like onion, carrots, and celery provides a flavorful base, while the chicken stock and shredded chicken deliver rich, savory notes. The rice adds a hearty touch, creating a filling meal that warms you up on those cold days. Together, they create a dish that’s not just comforting but also nutritious.

1 tablespoon olive oil – This is your cooking fat, which helps to sauté the vegetables and adds flavor.
1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped – Provides a sweet and savory base to the soup.
2 cloves garlic, minced – Adds aromatic depth to the dish.
2 medium carrots, chopped – Contributes sweetness and color to the soup.
½ cup celery, chopped – Offers a crunchy texture and fresh flavor.
½ teaspoon dried thyme or poultry seasoning – Enhances the overall flavor profile.
1 bay leaf – Infuses a subtle, earthy taste during cooking.
64 ounces low sodium chicken stock – The main liquid base for the soup, rich in flavor.
1 cup water – Balances the stock for a perfect broth.
1 cup long grain white rice – Makes the soup hearty and filling.
2 cups shredded cooked chicken, from a rotisserie chicken – Adds protein and makes the soup satisfying.

Recipe Steps for Easy Chicken and Rice Lunch Soup

Making Easy Chicken and Rice Lunch Soup is a delightful experience, and you’ll be amazed at how quickly it comes together. Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a warm bowl of goodness in no time!

In a large soup pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. You’ll know it’s ready when it shimmers. This step is crucial as it creates the perfect environment to sauté the veggies.
Add the onion, garlic, carrots, celery, thyme, and bay leaf. Cook and stir until the veggies are soft, which should take about 5 minutes. Look for the onions to become translucent and fragrant.
Next, pour in the chicken stock and water. Bring the mixture to a boil. The bubbling broth will start to fill your kitchen with enticing aromas!
Once boiling, add the rice and the shredded chicken meat. Stir well to combine everything, ensuring the rice is distributed evenly throughout. This is where the soup starts to become hearty.
Reduce the heat to medium-low and let it cook until the rice is tender, which will take about 25 to 30 minutes. Keep an eye on it; stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
If you want to preheat your thermos, pour boiling water into it while the soup cooks. This step is optional but can help keep your soup hot for lunch!
When the soup is ready, you can heat it again in the microwave or on the stovetop if needed to reach a piping-hot temperature. You want it nice and warm for serving.
Drain the water from the thermos if you preheated it, ensuring it’s empty before filling.
Carefully ladle the very hot soup into the thermos, filling it up. It’s perfect for taking on the go!
Finally, close the thermos container and pack it inside a lunch bag, ready to enjoy later. Nothing beats a hot meal when you’re out and about!

Things Worth Knowing

Stir the soup occasionally while cooking to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
Adjust the thickness of the soup by adding more chicken stock or water if you prefer a brothier texture.
For enhanced flavor, let the soup simmer a little longer after adding the chicken and rice.
Always taste the soup before serving to adjust seasoning, adding salt if necessary.

Helpful Hints

Here are some helpful tips to make your experience with Easy Chicken and Rice Lunch Soup even better!

Storage: The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. Just reheat it before serving.
Freezing: You can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Just make sure to leave out the rice if you want to avoid mushiness.
Pairing: Try serving the soup with a fresh side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal.
Adding Greens: Feel free to add in some fresh spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrients.
Experiment with Spices: Don’t hesitate to experiment with spices like cumin or paprika for an extra flavor kick!
Make it Creamy: For a creamier version, stir in a splash of cream or a dollop of sour cream before serving.

Side Dish Ideas for Easy Chicken and Rice Lunch Soup

Pairing your Easy Chicken and Rice Lunch Soup with the right side dishes can elevate your meal experience. Here are some delicious ideas:

Crusty Bread: Serve the soup with warm, crusty bread or rolls. It’s perfect for dipping!
Fresh Salad: A light garden salad dressed with vinaigrette complements the heartiness of the soup.
Cheese Toast: Try making cheesy garlic bread as a side; the flavors blend beautifully!
Rice Pilaf: If you love rice, pair your soup with a flavorful rice pilaf for an extra heartiness.
Seasonal Vegetables: Roasted or steamed seasonal veggies make a nutritious side that balances the meal.
Garnishing: Top your soup with fresh herbs like parsley or croutons for added texture and flavor.
Lunchbox Ready: If packing for lunch, consider a small fruit salad or yogurt as a sweet side!

FAQ

Absolutely! Using leftover chicken, especially rotisserie chicken, is a great way to save time and add flavor to your Easy Chicken and Rice Lunch Soup. Just shred or chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces before adding it to the soup. This not only enhances the taste but also makes the soup even more satisfying!

The best way to store leftovers of Easy Chicken and Rice Lunch Soup is in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave until it’s piping hot. You can also freeze the soup for up to three months, but it’s best to leave out the rice if you do, to prevent it from becoming mushy.

Yes, you can easily modify Easy Chicken and Rice Lunch Soup to make it vegetarian. Simply replace the chicken stock with vegetable broth and omit the chicken. You can also add in more veggies or even some beans for added protein. This way, you maintain the delicious, hearty feel of the soup while catering to a vegetarian diet!

Making Easy Chicken and Rice Lunch Soup is quite quick! Typically, it takes about 10 minutes to prep the ingredients, and another 30 minutes to cook. In total, you’re looking at around 40 minutes from start to finish. It’s a fantastic option for a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend lunch!

Conclusion

Easy Chicken and Rice Lunch Soup is truly a comforting dish that brings warmth and satisfaction in every bite. Perfect for busy days or chilly nights, this soup has become a beloved staple in many homes. I encourage you to try this recipe and savor the delightful flavors that come together effortlessly. It’s not just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl!