Chicken And Rice Weeknight Soup

Name: Chicken And Rice Weeknight Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 1 cup rice (white or brown); 4 cups chicken broth; 1 cup carrots, diced; 1 cup celery, diced; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried dill; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Fast Quick Meals Inspiration

I love how a simple bowl of soup can turn a hectic weeknight into a cozy, comforting experience. This Chicken and Rice Weeknight Soup is my go-to recipe when I need something quick yet nourishing. With tender chicken, fluffy rice, and aromatic vegetables, it all comes together in just 30 minutes. The best part is, it’s versatile—feel free to use whatever veggies you have on hand. Trust me, this soup will quickly become a favorite in your household too!

Created by

Rebecca Turner

Last updated on 2026-02-15T06:05:35.782Z

When I first started making this soup, I wanted something that would satisfy my family without spending hours in the kitchen. I played around with adding different herbs and spices, and that made all the difference in flavor. Fresh thyme and dill bring a brightness that elevates the dish, while a pinch of cayenne adds a gentle kick.

This recipe is also a great way to use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken. It saves time and adds a rich depth of flavor. Plus, it’s incredibly simple to adapt to whatever veggies you have — making it a perfect clean-out-the-fridge meal!

Why You'll Love This Soup
Quick and easy to make on busy nights
Comforting and satisfying, perfect for families
Nutritious and can be customized with your favorite veggies

Perfecting the Broth

The chicken broth is the backbone of this soup, providing depth and flavor. A homemade broth can elevate your dish significantly, giving it a rich, nuanced taste. If you're short on time, store-bought broth works well, but consider enhancing it with a splash of lemon juice or a sprinkle of Parmesan for a little extra zing. Heat it until it simmers, then keep it warm while preparing the vegetables.

For those looking to reduce sodium content, opt for low-sodium chicken broth to control the seasoning. This way, you can adjust the salt levels to your preference without compromising on flavor. A common issue is adding too much salt upfront; it's a good idea to season gradually, sampling as you go. Remember that the soup will continue to develop flavors as it simmers.

Customizing Your Soup

One of the soup's best features is its versatility. Feel free to substitute any vegetables based on what's in your fridge or your family’s favorites. Green beans, peas, or bell peppers are all excellent options. Just remember that softer vegetables may need to be added later in the cooking process to avoid becoming mushy. Aim to keep some crunch for texture balance.

If you're looking to make this soup heartier, consider incorporating beans or lentils for added protein and fiber. Simply add them at the same time as the rice, ensuring they have enough time to cook through. For a unique twist, try adding a splash of soy sauce or sesame oil after the soup is finished, introducing an unexpected flavor layer that can make this dish stand out.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start cooking:

Main Ingredients

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 cup rice (white or brown)
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup carrots, diced
1 cup celery, diced
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried dill
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to prepare your veggies and chicken in advance for a smoother cooking process.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create delicious soup:

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Add the Broth and Rice

Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Once boiling, add the rice, thyme, dill, salt, and pepper. Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot.

Finish with Chicken

After 15 minutes, add the shredded chicken to the pot. Stir well and let it simmer for another 5 minutes until everything is heated through. Adjust seasoning if necessary.

Your soup is ready to serve! Enjoy it hot, perhaps with a slice of crusty bread.

Pro Tips

For an added depth of flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon juice just before serving. It brightens the soup beautifully.

Make-Ahead Tips

This Chicken and Rice Weeknight Soup can be made in advance, making it a great option for meal prep. Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. When reheating, you may need to add a bit of extra broth to loosen it up, as the rice can absorb additional liquid over time.

If you prefer, you can also freeze the soup for longer storage. Just be sure to cool the soup completely before transferring it to freezer-safe bags or containers. It will last up to three months in the freezer. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating on the stove over medium heat until warmed through.

Serving Suggestions

This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread for a complete meal; the bread is perfect for dipping into the bowl. Alternatively, serve it with a fresh salad for a lighter touch that brightens the dish. If you enjoy an extra kick, offer chili flakes or fresh herbs as optional toppings to allow guests to customize their bowls.

For a more filling option, consider topping the soup with a sprinkle of grated cheese or a dollop of sour cream, which adds creaminess and balances the flavors. Don't forget to pair it with your favorite beverage—a chilled lemonade or herbal tea can enhance the comforting experience, making it a wonderful weeknight dinner choice.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen vegetables in this recipe?

Yes, frozen vegetables work well! Just add them to the pot during the last 5-10 minutes of cooking.

→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make it in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat over medium heat before serving.

→ What can I substitute for rice?

You can use quinoa or couscous as a gluten-free alternative, or even omit grains altogether for a low-carb version.

→ How can I make this soup creamier?

Add a splash of cream or half-and-half right before serving for a richer texture.