Craving comfort in a bowl? Discover how to make the perfect chicken and rice soup every time with our step-by-step guide. Ready to elevate your soup game?
8 cups of chicken broth (equivalent to two 32 oz. cartons)
1/2 teaspoon of Italian seasoning
1 cup of long-grain white rice, such as jasmine
Salt and pepper, to taste
1-2 tablespoons of fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
To begin, gather all your ingredients for a smooth cooking process. Chop the onion, celery, and carrots finely. This detail is essential—small vegetable pieces caramelize evenly, releasing both sweetness and aroma.
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, celery, and carrots, and sauté until the onions are translucent and the vegetables have softened slightly, about 5–7 minutes. This enhances the aromatic base of your soup.
Next, stir in the minced garlic, cooking for another minute to release its pungent aroma without burning. Nestle the chicken thighs among the vegetables, allowing them to absorb flavors. Browning slightly is fine, as it adds depth to the soup.
Add 8 cups of chicken broth, increasing the heat to high and bringing to a gentle boil. This begins the infusion of flavors, setting the foundation for the soup. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning and add a pinch of salt and pepper. Lower the heat and simmer gently, cooking for 20-25 minutes until the chicken is cooked through, tender, and moist.
Remove the chicken thighs and shred them using two forks. Return the shredded pieces to the pot to enrich your soup’s texture. Stir in the jasmine rice and continue to simmer the soup for another 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender, absorbing the broth’s richness.
If using, stir in fresh parsley to finish, adding a pop of color and a fresh note. Taste the soup, adjust seasoning if necessary, and serve hot, savoring the aromatic, hearty blend.