Chicken and Rice Soup

Step-by-step instructions

Melt the butter in a large soup pot over medium heat.
Toss in the diced onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 4 minutes until they soften.
Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
Sprinkle in the dried herbs, mustard powder, and pepper. Stir well.
Pour in the soy sauce, hot sauce, chicken breast, and chicken broth. Bring to a gentle simmer and partially cover the pot.
Let the chicken cook through for about 15-20 minutes, or until fully cooked.
Once cooked, remove the chicken and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.
In a separate saucepan, bring 1 1/2 cups of chicken broth to a boil. Add the uncooked rice, allowing it to return to a boil.
Cover the pot and reduce to a simmer for 15 minutes. Afterward, turn off the heat and let it sit for an additional 10 minutes.
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning, adding salt if needed.
Serve by spooning rice into bowls and ladling the soup on top. You can also mix everything together if you prefer.
Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy your comforting creation!

Best ways to enjoy it

This chicken and rice soup can be enjoyed in various delightful ways. Serve it warm in deep bowls alongside crisp, crusty bread for dipping. Alternatively, pair it with a simple green salad for a light, healthy meal. A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan or a drizzle of olive oil can elevate each bowl, enhancing the flavors in a way that feels both comforting and gourmet.

Storage and reheating tips

Making this soup in advance? No problem! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze portions in freezer-safe bags—just be sure to leave some space for expansion. When reheating, thaw overnight in the fridge and then warm gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if needed to restore the soup’s consistency.

Helpful cooking tips

To elevate your chicken and rice soup, consider these pro tips:

Sauté the vegetables until they are slightly caramelized for a richer flavor.
Experiment with adding a splash of lemon juice before serving; it brightens up the whole dish!
Use leftover rotisserie chicken to save time; it’s a fantastic shortcut that infuses extra flavor.
If time allows, let the soup sit for a few hours or overnight; it only gets better as the flavors meld.

Creative twists

Looking to shake things up a bit? Here are some creative variations to try:

Spice it up: Add diced jalapeños or a dash more hot sauce for a kick.
Herb infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like dill or cilantro for bright, fresh notes.
Vegetarian option: Use vegetable broth and chickpeas instead of chicken for a hearty meatless meal.
Grain swap: Quinoa or brown rice can be substituted for white rice to add a nutty flavor and extra nutrients.