Healthy Chicken Vegetable Rice Soup

Name: Healthy Chicken Vegetable Rice Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast, cooked and shredded; 1 cup carrot, diced; 1 cup celery, diced; 1 cup bell pepper, diced; 1 cup onion, diced; 1 cup brown rice; 6 cups chicken broth; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp dried thyme; 1 tsp dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Balanced Food Studio

I absolutely love making this Healthy Chicken Vegetable Rice Soup on chilly days. The warmth of the chicken broth combined with fresh vegetables makes it so comforting! I especially enjoy how versatile it is—using whatever vegetables are on hand. The hint of herbs elevates the flavor, making every spoonful feel like a hug in a bowl. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, so I can whip it up during a busy weeknight without much fuss.

Created by

Skylar Jennings

Last updated on 2026-02-23T18:56:48.554Z

When I first experimented with this Healthy Chicken Vegetable Rice Soup, I was looking for a way to use up leftover chicken and vegetables. The result was incredible! I learned that simmering the soup long enough allows all the flavors to meld beautifully. Using brown rice not only adds nutty flavor, but also increases the nutritional value and keeps me full longer.

This recipe has become a staple in my household. Each time I make it, I enjoy discovering new combinations of vegetables. The key is to chop everything evenly to ensure they cook uniformly, resulting in a comforting, hearty soup that can be easily modified based on what you have on hand.

Why You'll Love This Soup
Nutritious ingredients packed with vitamins and minerals
Customizable recipe based on your favorite vegetables and proteins
Hearty and filling to satisfy those cold weather cravings

Maximizing Flavor with Herbs

In this Healthy Chicken Vegetable Rice Soup, the right combination of herbs brings your broth to life. Dried thyme and oregano not only add depth but also enhance the natural flavors of chicken and vegetables. Make sure to add the herbs right after sautéing the garlic; this allows their essential oils to release and meld into the soup. If you want to elevate the taste further, consider adding a bay leaf during simmering, then remove it before serving for an additional layer of flavor.

For an extra touch of freshness, you can sprinkle in some chopped fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro right before serving. This not only adds a pop of color but also a burst of freshness that contrasts beautifully with the warm soup. If you're feeling adventurous, experiment with herbs like dill or basil, which can provide a unique twist to the traditional flavor profile.

Perfecting the Rice Texture

Using brown rice in this soup offers a hearty texture and nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with the chicken and vegetables. However, it's important to monitor the cooking time, as brown rice typically takes longer to cook than white rice. After adding it to the broth, keep an eye on the consistency; you'll want it to be tender but not mushy. If you prefer, you can substitute quinoa or even pearl couscous for an alternative grain option, but adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the grain finishes cooking properly.

Another helpful tip is to rinse your brown rice before adding it to the soup. This can help remove excess starch and prevent the soup from becoming overly thick. When simmering, a gentle boil is key; too vigorous a simmer can lead to overly soft rice or clumping. If you notice the soup is thickening more than you'd like, simply add a little extra broth or water to achieve your desired consistency.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this delightful soup:

Ingredients

1 lb chicken breast, cooked and shredded
1 cup carrot, diced
1 cup celery, diced
1 cup bell pepper, diced
1 cup onion, diced
1 cup brown rice
6 cups chicken broth
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to have these ingredients prepped and ready before you start cooking.

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to prepare your soup:

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat a splash of oil over medium heat. Add the onion, carrot, celery, and bell pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

Add Garlic and Seasonings

Stir in the garlic, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute until fragrant.

Combine with Rice and Broth

Add the brown rice to the pot, then pour in the chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to allow it to simmer.

Add Chicken and Simmer

Once the rice is partially cooked, add the cooked chicken. Let the soup simmer for about 25 minutes until the rice is fully cooked and the flavors are well combined.

Serve and Enjoy

Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary. Serve hot and enjoy your warm, wholesome soup!

Follow these steps closely for the best results!

Pro Tips

Feel free to experiment with different vegetables such as spinach, zucchini, or corn based on your preference.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This soup's flavors deepen over time, making it an excellent meal prep option. After preparing, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be refrigerated for up to 4 days. Reheat it gently on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If the rice has absorbed too much liquid during storage, add a splash of broth or water to loosen the consistency.

If you want to make a large batch for freezing, consider undercooking the rice slightly. This way, when you reheat the soup, the rice won’t become overly soft. Freeze in individual portions to make weekday lunches a breeze. Just be sure to label your containers with the date and contents to keep track of freshness.

Serving Suggestions

This Healthy Chicken Vegetable Rice Soup is hearty enough on its own but can be served with a variety of sides to make a more complete meal. Consider pairing it with crusty whole-grain bread or a simple side salad for a balanced dinner. A drizzle of balsamic glaze over the salad can add an exciting flavor contrast that complements the soup.

For a bit of zing, serve your soup with a wedge of lemon or lime on the side; a squeeze of citrus just before eating brightens and enhances the flavors tremendously. If you’re entertaining, top the soup with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt and a sprinkle of fresh herbs for an appealing presentation that tempts the taste buds.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use leftover cooked rice?

Yes, you can add leftover cooked rice in the last few minutes of simmering to warm it through.

→ How long can I store this soup?

The soup can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

→ Can I use a different protein?

Absolutely! This soup works well with turkey, tofu, or even legumes for a vegetarian option.

→ Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, if you use gluten-free chicken broth and check your rice packaging for gluten-free labeling.