Healthy Homemade Chicken Rice Soup (Easy, Comforting & Nourishing)

This healthy chicken rice soup recipe is a warm, soothing, and protein-packed meal made with tender shredded chicken, fluffy rice, and flavorful vegetables simmered in a rich broth. It’s the perfect comfort food soup for cold days, flu season, or when you need a light but filling meal.

Made with simple pantry ingredients, this easy homemade chicken soup is naturally low-fat, gluten-free, and full of immune-boosting nutrients.

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 medium onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced

2 celery stalks, sliced

1 cup long-grain white rice

6 cups low-sodium chicken broth

2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great)

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 bay leaf

Salt and black pepper to taste

1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Lemon wedges for serving (optional)

How to Make Chicken Rice Soup

1. Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and sauté for about 3 minutes until soft and fragrant.

2. Add the carrots and celery and cook for another 4–5 minutes until slightly tender.

3. Stir in the rice, chicken broth, shredded chicken, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.

4. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20–25 minutes until the rice is tender.

5. Remove the bay leaf. Taste and adjust seasoning.

6. Serve hot with parsley and a squeeze of fresh lemon for extra flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Rice Soup

This homemade chicken and rice soup is more than just comforting — it’s also incredibly nutritious:

Boosts immunity – Garlic, chicken broth, and vegetables support your immune system
Great for digestion – Light, soothing, and easy on the stomach
High in protein – Helps build muscle and keep you full longer
Hydrating & healing – Perfect for colds, flu, and recovery days
Low in fat and calories – Ideal for healthy eating and weight management

This soup is also kid-friendly, freezer-friendly, and perfect for meal prep.

Recipe Details

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

Calories: ~300 kcal per serving

Servings: 6