Crockpot Chicken and Rice Soup Recipe
Introduction
This Crockpot Chicken and Rice Soup is a comforting, hearty meal perfect for any day. With tender chicken, flavorful vegetables, and wholesome rice, it’s easy to prepare and satisfying to eat.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: Add the chicken breasts, chicken broth, rice, diced carrots, diced celery, diced onion, minced garlic, dried thyme, salt, and pepper into the Crockpot.
- Step 2: Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.
- Step 3: Remove the chicken breasts from the Crockpot and shred them using two forks, then return the shredded chicken to the soup.
- Step 4: Stir well, adjust seasoning if needed, and serve the soup hot.
Tips & Variations
- Use brown rice for a nuttier flavor and more fiber, but increase cooking time accordingly.
- Add a handful of fresh parsley or spinach at the end for a fresh, vibrant taste.
- For a creamier soup, stir in a splash of cream or coconut milk before serving.
- To save time, use pre-chopped vegetables or frozen mixed veggies.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until hot. The rice may absorb more liquid after storing; add a splash of broth or water while reheating if needed.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well and can add extra flavor and tenderness. Adjust cooking time if needed.
Is it possible to freeze this soup?
Yes, you can freeze the soup in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
PrintCrockpot Chicken and Rice Soup Recipe
This comforting Crockpot Chicken and Rice Soup is a hearty and easy-to-make meal perfect for chilly days. Tender chicken breasts slow-cooked with long-grain rice, fresh vegetables, and flavorful herbs create a warm, satisfying soup that’s ready with minimal effort.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours (low) or 3.5 hours (high)
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes (low) or 3 hours 45 minutes (high)
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Soup Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Dice the carrots, celery, onion, and mince the garlic cloves to ensure even cooking and flavor distribution in the soup.
- Add to Crockpot: Place the chicken breasts, chicken broth, long-grain rice, diced vegetables, minced garlic, dried thyme, salt, and pepper into the crockpot. This combination will allow the flavors to meld during slow cooking.
- Cook Soup: Cover and cook the soup on low for 6 to 7 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. This slow cooking process tenderizes the chicken and fully cooks the rice while blending flavors perfectly.
- Shred Chicken: Once cooked, remove the chicken breasts and shred them using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the soup and stir to combine.
- Serve: Ladle the hot soup into bowls and serve immediately for a soothing and nutritious meal.
Notes
- For thicker soup, cook uncovered during the final 30 minutes to allow some liquid to evaporate.
- You can substitute brown rice for a healthier whole grain option, but cooking times may need adjustment.
- Adding fresh herbs like parsley before serving can enhance freshness and flavor.
- Use low-sodium chicken broth to control the salt content for a healthier option.
- Leftovers refrigerate well and may thicken; add a splash of broth when reheating.
Keywords: Crockpot chicken soup, chicken and rice soup, easy crockpot recipes, slow cooker soup, comfort food, hearty soup
