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 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, diced; 2 carrots, sliced; 2 celery stalks, sliced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 pound boneless chicken breast, diced; 6 cups chicken broth; 1 cup brown rice; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried basil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup spinach or kale, chopped; Juice of 1 lemon

Highlighted under: Balanced Food Studio

I love making this Healthy Chicken Vegetable Rice Soup whenever I want something nourishing and satisfying. The combination of tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and fluffy rice creates a comforting bowl that warms the soul. It’s particularly great for chilly days, and I find that it’s a wonderful way to use up any leftover veggies I have in the fridge. This soup is not only delicious, but it also packs a nutritious punch, making it a go-to recipe for my family.

Created by

Skylar Jennings

Last updated on 2026-02-23T19:05:39.367Z

When I first made this soup, I wasn't sure how well the flavors would meld together, but I was pleasantly surprised. The chicken stays tender while absorbing the flavors of the herbs and vegetables, resulting in a rich, satisfying broth. I've learned that simmering the chicken with the vegetables allows for a depth of flavor that is truly comforting.

One tip I’d offer is to add the rice towards the end of cooking to keep it perfectly cooked without becoming mushy. This soup is both nourishing and versatile, and it often becomes the highlight of our dinners!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Nutritious ingredients packed with vitamins and minerals
A flavorful blend of fresh vegetables and tender chicken
Easy to customize with your favorite veggies or grains

A Nutrient-Packed Powerhouse

This Healthy Chicken Vegetable Rice Soup is not just comforting but also a powerhouse of nutrients. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in providing essential vitamins and minerals. For instance, carrots and spinach are loaded with beta-carotene and iron, respectively, which are vital for maintaining good vision and healthy blood levels. When selecting vegetables, feel free to include seasonal produce like zucchini or peas for added flavor and nutrition.

The use of brown rice instead of white is another smart substitution that adds fiber, helping to keep you full longer. Additionally, the whole grains provide a nuttier flavor and a chewy texture that enhances the overall heartiness of the soup. If you're looking for a gluten-free alternative, quinoa is an excellent substitute, offering a similar texture with a boost in protein.

Cooking Techniques for Success

Sautéing the vegetables in olive oil at the right heat level is key to developing flavor. Keep the heat at medium to allow the onions to become translucent and the carrots to soften without browning them too much. This 5-minute process lays a flavorful foundation for the entire soup. Taking care to stir occasionally helps prevent any sticking or burning at the bottom of the pot.

When adding the chicken, ensure the pieces are uniform in size to promote even cooking. Cooking for about 5 minutes until lightly browned not only enhances flavor through the Maillard reaction but also seals in juices, resulting in tender chicken throughout. If you prefer a richer flavor profile, consider adding a splash of white wine after sautéing the vegetables.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

This soup keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, making it an ideal make-ahead meal. Store in airtight containers and reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a bit of water or broth if it thickens too much. For freezing, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe bags or containers, where it can last for 3 months. Make sure to leave some space at the top of containers as liquids expand when frozen.

When it's time to serve, a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or a dash of hot sauce can elevate your dish, adding freshness and a kick. Pair the soup with whole-grain bread or a light salad for a complete meal. I often enjoy it with a drizzle of olive oil on top for an extra layer of taste. Consider adjusting the acidity with more lemon juice for balance, particularly if you've added richer ingredients like cream or cheese.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create a flavorful soup:

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, diced
2 carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, diced
1 pound boneless chicken breast, diced
6 cups chicken broth
1 cup brown rice
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup spinach or kale, chopped
Juice of 1 lemon

Ensure all your ingredients are fresh for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your Healthy Chicken Vegetable Rice Soup:

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté for about 5 minutes until they start to soften. Stir in the garlic and bell pepper, cooking for an additional 2 minutes.

Cook the Chicken

Add the diced chicken to the pot and cook until it's lightly browned, about 5 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.

Add Broth and Rice

Pour in the chicken broth, and add the brown rice, dried thyme, and basil. Bring the mixture to a boil.

Simmer

Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer for about 25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the chicken is tender.

Finish with Greens

Stir in the chopped spinach or kale and the lemon juice. Cook for an additional 2 minutes until the greens are wilted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Enjoy your homemade soup hot.

Pro Tips

Feel free to substitute other vegetables like zucchini or green beans for added variety in this soup!

Ingredient Insights

Choosing fresh vegetables will significantly enhance the taste of your soup. Opt for organic produce if available, especially for carrots and celery, which can have a more intense flavor and nutritional value. If you have leftover vegetables from other meals, such as corn or green beans, feel free to throw them into the mix. This versatility not only cuts down on waste but also allows for personalization based on your family's preferences.

For the broth, homemade chicken broth offers the best flavor, but store-bought is a convenient alternative. Additionally, low-sodium versions allow you to control the saltiness of the soup more effectively. If you're aiming for a vegetarian option, substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth and use chickpeas in place of chicken, ensuring a rich, hearty soup packed with protein.

Flavor Variations

To switch up the flavor profile, consider adding various herbs and spices. A pinch of smoked paprika can impart a warm, smoky undertone, while fresh thyme or rosemary introduced towards the end of cooking can bring bright, aromatic notes. For a little heat, consider incorporating red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the sauté stage for a subtle kick that warms beyond the temperature.

If you're in the mood for a creamier soup, you could stir in a splash of coconut milk or heavy cream at the end of cooking. This will create a richer texture, perfect for those who enjoy a luscious soup base. Just ensure to adjust the seasonings afterward, as the added cream will mellow the original flavors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use leftover chicken?

Yes! Cooked chicken works just as well. Add it towards the end to heat through.

→ Is this soup freezable?

Absolutely! Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to an airtight container.

→ What can I use instead of brown rice?

You can use white rice or quinoa as alternatives, adjusting cooking times as necessary.

→ Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead. You can add beans for protein.