Warm up from the inside out with this comforting, homemade Easy Chicken & Rice Soup! Packed with tender shredded chicken, hearty rice, and a vibrant medley of carrots, celery, and onions in a savory broth finished with a touch of evaporated milk, this cozy one-pot meal is the ultimate comfort food for chilly days or busy weeknights.
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 35 minutes |
| Total Time | 45 minutes |
| Servings | 6 servings |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Cuisine | Classic American Comfort Soup |
Why This Recipe Works
Cooking the raw chicken breasts directly in the seasoned chicken stock along with the rice infuses the entire broth with deep, savory flavor. Stirring in evaporated milk at the end adds a velvety, rich creaminess without overpowering the wholesome ingredients.
Ingredients
Aromatics, Veggies & Spices
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Vegetable oil | 1 tbsp | For sautéing |
| Yellow onion | 1 large | Finely diced |
| Carrots | 3 medium | Finely diced |
| Celery stalk | 1 stalk | Diced |
| Garlic clove | 1 clove | Minced |
| Italian seasoning | 2 tsp | Herb blend |
| Sea salt | 1 tsp | Seasoning |
| Ground black pepper | ¼ tsp | Seasoning |
Soup Base, Protein & Dairy
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Low-sodium chicken stock | 6 cups | Savory liquid base |
| Boneless, skinless chicken breasts | 2 large | Raw, or use rotisserie for speed |
| Uncooked white or brown rice | 1 cup | Hearty grain |
| Evaporated milk | 1 cup | Adds velvety richness |
Step-by-Step Instructions
Phase 1: Sautéing and Simmering
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large soup pot over medium-high heat.
- Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften.
- Stir in the garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the chicken breasts, chicken stock, and uncooked rice. Bring the soup to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and the rice is tender.
Phase 2: Shredding and Enriching
- Remove the chicken breasts from the pot and shred them using two forks.
- Return the shredded chicken to the soup and stir in the evaporated milk.
- Simmer for another 2 to 3 minutes, stirring well, until everything is heated through.
Phase 3: Seasoning and Serving
- Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed, then serve hot!
Chef Tips for Perfect Results
Time Saver: Shredded rotisserie chicken can be used instead of raw chicken for an even quicker weeknight meal.
Serving Suggestion: Serve with crusty bread, crackers, or a fresh green salad to complete your meal.
Storage & Freezing: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 2 months (add a splash of chicken broth when reheating if the soup has thickened).
Conclusion
Easy Chicken & Rice Soup is a foolproof, deeply satisfying classic that brings warmth, nourishment, and incredible flavor straight to your dinner table!