Emma

Introduction

There’s nothing very like a warm bowl of Old Fashioned Chicken and Rice Soup to bring comfort and nostalgia to the table. This ageless dish is packed with tender chicken, healty rice, and flavorful broth, making it the perfect meal for chilly days, when you’re feeling under the weather, or when you just need a cozy, homemade meal.

Unlike advanced variations, this old-fashioned version keeps things basic, using wholesome ingredients that have been trusted for generations. It’s a dish that reminds you of home, with every spoonful delivering warmth and nourishment.

In this article, we’ll walk you through the best way to make a traditional Old Fashioned Chicken and Rice Soup, share tips for dodging soft rice, and reveal a secret ingredient that takes the flavor to another level. Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love Old Fashioned Chicken and Rice Soup

This comforting soup is more than just a meal—it’s a tradition passed down through generations. Here’s why you’ll cherish making and enjoying this classic dish:

1. Straightforward, Wholesome Ingredients

Made with basic pantry staples like chicken, rice, carrots, celery, and broth, this soup is as nourishing as it is delicious.

2. Perfect for Cold Days & Sick Days

Warm, soothing, and packed with nutrients, this soup is the ultimate comfort food when you need a small additional care.

3. Easy to Make in One Pot

No complicated steps or fancy equipment needed—just a simple stovetop method that makes cleanup a breeze.

4. Great for Meal Prep

Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week. This soup also freezes well for future quick and easy meals.

5. Naturally Customizable

Swap white rice for brown rice, add extra veggies, or use a homemade broth for an even richer flavor. For another cozy soup idea, check out Cheesy Broccoli Rice Soup—another satisfying bowl of goodness!

With its nourishing ingredients and heartwarming flavors, Old Fashioned Chicken and Rice Soup is a staple recipe you’ll want to make again and again!

Prep Time & Servings for Old-Fashioned Chicken and Rice Soup

⏳ Prep Time: 15 minutes
🍲 Cook Time: 45 minutes
⏱ Total Time: 1 hour
🍽 Servings: 6

This Old-Fashioned Chicken and Rice Soup is a hearty, nourishing meal that serves six generous portions, making it perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or comforting leftovers. The prep is quick and simple, and the slow simmering process allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Ingredients for Old Fashioned Chicken and Rice Soup

For the Soup:

• 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups chicken broth (homemade or store-bought)
• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie or homemade)
• 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice (or brown rice for a heartier option)
• 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp dried thyme (or 1 tbsp fresh thyme)
• 1 bay leaf

Optional Additions:

• ½ tsp turmeric (for extra warmth and color)
• ½ cup frozen peas (added at the end for a pop of color)
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Juice of ½ lemon (for a touch of brightness)

These ingredients come together to create a soup that’s rich, comforting, and full of flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Old Fashioned Chicken and Rice Soup

1. Sauté the Vegetables

• In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil (or butter) over medium heat.
• Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 4–5 minutes until softened.
• Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

2. Add the Broth and Seasonings

• Pour in the chicken broth and stir well.
• Add salt, black pepper, thyme, and the bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

3. Cook the Rice

• Stir in the uncooked rice and reduce the heat to low.
• Cover and let simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until the rice is tender. (For brown rice, simmer for about 35–40 minutes.)

4. Add the Chicken

• Stir in the cooked, shredded chicken. Let it simmer for another 5–10 minutes so the flavors blend together.
• If using, add frozen peas and stir them in during the last few minutes of cooking.

5. Finish and Serve

• Remove the bay leaf and discard it.
• Stir in fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice for added brightness.
• Serve hot with Lemon Butter Biscuits or crusty bread on the side.

Pro Tips for the Best Old Fashioned Chicken and Rice Soup

1. Use Homemade Broth for Extra Flavor
   • If you have time, making your own chicken broth adds incredible depth to the soup. Simmer chicken bones with onions, carrots, celery, and herbs for a rich, homemade base.
2. Sauté the Veggies for Better Taste
   • Cooking the onions, carrots, and celery in butter or olive oil before adding the broth enhances their natural sweetness and creates a deeper flavor profile.
3. Prevent Mushy Rice
   • If you’re meal prepping or making a big batch, cook the rice separately and add it just before serving. This prevents it from soaking up too much broth and turning mushy.
4. Use Rotisserie Chicken for Convenience
   • Shredded rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut for this recipe, cutting down on cooking time while still providing tender, flavorful meat.
5. Add a Secret Ingredient for More Depth
   • A splash of lemon juice or a teaspoon of soy sauce can brighten up the flavors and make the soup even more delicious.
6. Make It Creamy (Optional)
   • For a creamier version, stir in ½ cup of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end of cooking.
7. Adjust the Texture
   • If the soup is too thick, add extra broth to thin it out. If it’s too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few more minutes to reduce.

Follow these tips for a rich, hearty, and perfectly balanced chicken and rice soup that will become a staple in your home!

Health Benefits of Old-Fashioned Chicken and Rice Soup

This Old-Fashioned Chicken and Rice Soup isn’t just comforting—it’s also packed with nutrients that support overall health. Here’s why this classic, homemade soup is a great addition to your diet:

1. Boosts Immunity

• Chicken broth is rich in minerals like zinc, magnesium, and phosphorus, which help strengthen the immune system.
• Garlic and onions (often used in the soup) contain antimicrobial properties, supporting the body’s defense against colds and flu.

2. Supports Gut Health & Digestion

• Rice is easy to digest, making this soup gentle on the stomach, ideal for recovery from illness or digestive issues.

3. High in Protein for Muscle & Tissue Repair

• Chicken provides lean protein, essential for muscle repair, energy, and overall body function.
• If made with bone-in chicken, the broth contains amino acids like glycine and proline, which support joint and skin health.

4. Hydrating & Nutrient-Rich

• This soup is high in fluids, keeping the body hydrated while delivering essential vitamins and minerals.
• Adding vegetables like carrots, celery, and spinach increases the fiber, vitamin A, and antioxidants for extra nourishment.

6. A Wholesome, Balanced Meal

• With protein (chicken), carbohydrates (rice), and essential vitamins (vegetables), this soup offers a well-rounded, nourishing meal that keeps you full and energized without being heavy.

FAQs About Old Fashioned Chicken and Rice Soup

1. How do you make chicken and rice soup from scratch?

To make Old Fashioned Chicken and Rice Soup, start by sautéing onions, carrots, and celery in butter or olive oil. Add chicken broth, seasonings, and uncooked rice, then simmer until the rice is tender. Stir in cooked shredded chicken and let everything blend together before serving.

2. Is it better to put cooked or uncooked rice in soup?

It depends on your preference. Adding uncooked rice allows it to absorb the broth’s flavor but can lead to a thicker consistency. If you’re meal prepping, use cooked rice and add it just before serving to prevent it from becoming mushy.

3. What is the secret ingredient in soup?

A small splash of lemon juice or soy sauce can brighten up the flavors and enhance the depth of the broth. Some people also like adding a pinch of turmeric for color and extra warmth.

4. How do you keep the rice from getting mushy in soup?

To prevent mushy rice, cook it separately and stir it into individual bowls when serving. Alternatively, use long-grain rice, which holds its texture better, or reduce the cooking time slightly to keep it firmer.

5. Is it possible to substitute white rice with brown rice?

Yes! Brown rice adds a nutty flavor and extra nutrients, but it takes longer to cook (about 35–40 minutes). Adjust the cooking time accordingly or par-cook it before adding it to the soup.

6. How can I store and reheat chicken and rice soup?

Keep any leftovers in a sealed container and refrigerate for up to four days. When reheating, add a little extra broth or water to thin it out, as the rice may absorb liquid over time.

Conclusion for Old Fashioned Chicken and Rice Soup

Old Fashioned Chicken and Rice Soup is the ultimate comfort food, bringing warmth and nourishment with every spoonful. Made with simple, wholesome ingredients, this classic dish is perfect for cozy nights, sick days, or meal prep for the week.

By following a few key tips—like sautéing vegetables for extra flavor, using homemade broth, and controlling the rice texture—you’ll create a soup that’s rich, hearty, and perfectly balanced. Whether you enjoy it as a light lunch or a hearty dinner.

So, next time you’re in the mood for a classic, homemade soup, give this Old-Fashioned Chicken and Rice Soup recipe a try—it’s sure to become a family favorite!