Chicken And Rice Weeknight Soup

Name: Chicken And Rice Weeknight Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 1 cup long-grain rice; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 3 carrots, sliced; 2 celery stalks, sliced; 6 cups chicken broth; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup spinach, chopped (optional); Juice of 1 lemon (optional, for serving)

Highlighted under: Fast & Delicious

I love making this Chicken and Rice Weeknight Soup for busy evenings when I want something warm and comforting without spending hours in the kitchen. With tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a medley of fresh vegetables, it's the perfect one-pot dish for a quick family meal. The flavors meld beautifully, and it’s a great way to use up leftovers. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients, making it a wholesome option that everyone enjoys. This recipe guarantees satisfaction with little fuss!

Created by

Rhea Bennett

Last updated on 2026-02-10T22:45:36.957Z

When I first whipped up this Chicken and Rice Weeknight Soup, I was blown away by how easy and delicious it was! The use of rotisserie chicken makes it a breeze to throw together. It’s the perfect solution for those evenings when everyone is starving and you don't want to sacrifice flavor for speed.

One tip I discovered while perfecting this recipe is to add a splash of lemon juice just before serving, which brightens the flavors remarkably. It’s a simple touch, but it elevates the dish and makes it feel a little gourmet!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Hearty and comforting, perfect for chilly nights
Quick to prepare with minimal cleanup
Full of nutrients from vegetables and lean protein

The Role of Fresh Vegetables

Fresh vegetables bring not only flavor but also texture to this Chicken and Rice Weeknight Soup. The carrots and celery add a delightful crunch, while the sautéing process helps release their natural sweetness. Aim for vibrant colors and tender-crisp textures; you want them to maintain a bit of body even after simmering. If you're short on time, pre-chopped vegetables can be a great shortcut.

Incorporating spinach at the end boosts the nutritional profile significantly without altering the soup's essence. If you're not a fan of spinach, consider kale or Swiss chard as alternatives. Simply chop these greens and allow them to wilt slightly in the hot soup, preserving their vibrant color and nutrients.

Cooking Techniques for a Perfect Soup

Sautéing is the foundation of flavor in this soup. Starting with medium heat allows the onion and garlic to become fragrant without burning, which can lead to a bitter taste. Stir occasionally until the vegetables are softened and translucent, which typically takes about 5 minutes. This step is crucial for building a robust flavor base.

When adding the rice, toasting it for a minute before introducing the broth enhances its nuttiness. This technique prevents the rice from becoming soggy, ensuring each grain maintains its integrity as the soup simmers. Be attentive to the simmering process; a gentle bubble is ideal, as it promotes even cooking without causing the rice to break apart.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Chicken And Rice Weeknight Soup

Soup Ingredients

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 cup long-grain rice
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, sliced
6 cups chicken broth
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup spinach, chopped (optional)
Juice of 1 lemon (optional, for serving)

Instructions

Cooking Instructions

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until they start to soften.

Add the Rice and Broth

Stir in the long-grain rice and dried thyme, cooking for another minute. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes.

Combine it All

After 15 minutes, add the shredded chicken and chopped spinach, if using. Let it simmer for an additional 10 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the soup is heated through.

Season and Serve

Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Just before serving, squeeze in some lemon juice for a fresh kick. Serve warm and enjoy your comforting bowl of soup!

Pro Tips

For a creamier texture, you can stir in a splash of heavy cream just before serving. Feel free to customize this soup by adding your favorite vegetables or using leftover turkey for an alternative.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

This Chicken and Rice Weeknight Soup stores beautifully, making it ideal for meal prep. If you have leftovers, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to store it longer, consider freezing portions; this soup freezes well for up to three months.

When reheating, be mindful that rice absorbs liquid over time, so your soup may thicken. Add a splash of chicken broth or water while warming on the stove. Stir occasionally until heated through, usually taking about 5-10 minutes over medium heat. Check the seasoning again, as you may need to adjust the flavor.

Flavor Variations

Feel free to customize this soup based on your family's preferences or what you have on hand. Adding a dash of soy sauce or a splash of hot sauce can introduce a new flavor dimension; experiment to see what combination you enjoy most. You can also throw in some frozen peas or corn towards the end of cooking for added sweetness and vibrant color.

For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream just before serving. This adds richness and complements the flavors well, especially on a chilly night. For a more aromatic profile, try including bay leaves or fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro right before serving as a garnish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but be aware that brown rice will require a longer cooking time. Adjust the broth and cooking time accordingly.

→ How long does this soup last in the fridge?

It can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze leftover soup?

Absolutely! This soup freezes well. Just allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.

→ What can I substitute for chicken?

You can use turkey, tofu, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option. Adjust cooking times as necessary.