Cheats Chicken & Rice Soup Recipe
When you’re in the mood for something warm and soothing, but need to get it on the table fast, nothing beats Cheats Chicken & Rice Soup. This simple yet satisfying soup is packed with tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and fluffy rice all swimming in a savory, herby broth. It’s exactly what you want on a busy weeknight or whenever you need a nourishing boost—plus, it’s a fantastic way to make use of leftovers!
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll be amazed at how a handful of everyday ingredients come together to make the coziest bowl of soup. Each element in this Cheats Chicken & Rice Soup adds its own flair—aroma from the herbs, body from the rice, and comfort from the chicken.
- Olive Oil: Gives a glossy, flavorful start and helps the veggies soften perfectly.
- Small Onion, Finely Chopped: Adds sweetness and depth to every spoonful.
- Garlic, Minced: Packs in a boost of delicious aroma and flavor.
- Carrot, Diced: Brings color and a gentle earthiness, along with fantastic texture.
- Celery Stalk, Diced: Offers crunch and fresh, classic soup flavor.
- Dried Thyme: Lends that cozy, herbaceous note making the soup taste like it simmered all day.
- Black Pepper: Adds a little warmth and mild kick to balance the flavors.
- Chicken Broth: Creates a savory, soul-hugging base.
- Cooked Shredded Chicken: Rotisserie chicken is a major time-saver and adds immediate richness.
- Cooked White Rice: Makes the soup extra hearty and filling—use leftover rice for convenience!
- Lemon Juice (Optional): Just a squeeze brightens up the soup and makes the flavors pop.
- Salt to Taste: Essential for bringing everything together; add as needed at the end.
- Fresh Parsley for Garnish: A sprinkle on top makes the soup look and taste fresh.
How to Make Cheats Chicken & Rice Soup
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add your chopped onion, garlic, carrot, and celery. Sauté for about 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables have started to soften and the kitchen already smells irresistible. This step builds flavor fast and is the backbone of a great Cheats Chicken & Rice Soup.
Step 2: Add the Herbs and Seasonings
Sprinkle in the dried thyme and black pepper. Give everything a good stir so the herbs wake up in the warm oil and release their lovely aroma. This quick move takes your soup from basic to something that tastes like you fussed for hours.
Step 3: Pour in the Broth
Next, pour in the chicken broth straight into the pot and increase the heat just until it reaches a gentle boil. The savory broth will deglaze any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom and make your Cheats Chicken & Rice Soup broth even richer.
Step 4: Add Chicken and Rice
Once the broth is bubbling, stir in your cooked shredded chicken and cooked white rice. Reduce the heat so the pot is just simmering. Let it all mingle for 8 to 10 minutes—just enough time for the flavors to meld together and for the whole soup to become hot and comforting.
Step 5: Finish and Season
If you’re using lemon juice, now’s the moment to add it. Give the soup a nice stir, taste, and adjust salt if needed. The lemon adds a little extra shine and brings all the flavors into balance—just what you want in Cheats Chicken & Rice Soup!
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls and finish with a hearty sprinkle of fresh parsley. The fragrant greens on top not only look beautiful but add a wonderful freshness right at the end.
How to Serve Cheats Chicken & Rice Soup
Garnishes
Cheats Chicken & Rice Soup just begs for a finishing touch! Freshly chopped parsley is classic, but you could also try a sprinkle of cracked pepper, a grating of Parmesan, or even a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. If you love a creamy touch, a swirl of cream or a tiny dollop of sour cream will make it feel extra special.
Side Dishes
Pairing this hearty soup with a crusty piece of bread is always a winning move. Consider a warm baguette, buttered toast, or garlic knots for dipping. A simple green salad with a bright vinaigrette also contrasts beautifully with the warm, savory flavors of Cheats Chicken & Rice Soup.
Creative Ways to Present
Show off this comforting classic by serving it in large mugs for a cozy feel, or ladle it into individual soup crocks topped with a parsley sprig. If you’re entertaining, offer a soup-and-sandwich board, letting everyone assemble their own meal using small bowls of Cheats Chicken & Rice Soup alongside mini slider sandwiches.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with extra Cheats Chicken & Rice Soup (lucky you!), simply let it cool to room temperature. Transfer to an airtight container and pop it in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors only get better as they sit—but the rice will absorb more broth, so you may need to add a splash of extra broth when reheating.
Freezing
This soup freezes beautifully, provided you’re mindful of the rice. For best results, freeze the soup before you add the rice; otherwise, the rice can get a bit mushy. Simply freeze in a tightly sealed, freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Add freshly cooked rice when you reheat for a just-made feel.
Reheating
When you’re ready for a bowl, reheat the Cheats Chicken & Rice Soup gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat. Add a splash more broth or water if it has thickened. If you’re reheating from frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge first, then warm up. Stir often to make sure everything heats evenly.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white?
Absolutely! Brown rice brings a slightly nuttier flavor and extra fiber to the Cheats Chicken & Rice Soup. Just make sure it’s cooked before adding, as it takes longer than white rice.
What’s the best chicken to use?
Rotisserie chicken is my favorite for pure convenience and flavor, but any cooked, shredded chicken will work beautifully. Leftover roast or poached chicken is also wonderful in this recipe.
Can I add other vegetables?
You sure can! Chopped spinach, peas, corn, or even a handful of diced zucchini make tasty additions. Just add them in while the soup simmers so they cook through without losing their texture.
How can I make this soup creamier?
If you’re in the mood for an extra comforting texture, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a spoonful of Greek yogurt just before serving. It takes Cheats Chicken & Rice Soup to a new level of richness.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! As long as you use gluten-free chicken broth and double-check any add-ins, this Cheats Chicken & Rice Soup is naturally gluten-free and perfect for sharing with anyone who needs to avoid gluten.
Final Thoughts
Cheats Chicken & Rice Soup is one of those rare recipes that brings happiness straight to your bowl, no matter how hectic life is. Give it a try the next time you need quick, homestyle comfort—and don’t be surprised if it becomes your new go-to soup for busy nights and cozy weekends alike!
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Cheats Chicken & Rice Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A quick and easy recipe for Cheats Chicken & Rice Soup that is perfect for using leftover chicken. This flavorful soup is comforting and satisfying, making it a great option for a simple weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Soup:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, diced
- 1 celery stalk, diced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 cups chicken broth
Additions:
- 1 cup cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie works great)
- 1 cup cooked white rice
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
- Salt to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil: In a large pot over medium heat, sauté onion, garlic, carrot, and celery until softened.
- Add seasonings and broth: Stir in thyme, black pepper, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil.
- Combine ingredients: Add shredded chicken and cooked rice. Simmer until heated through.
- Finish and serve: Stir in lemon juice, adjust salt, garnish with parsley, and serve hot.
Notes
- This recipe is great for using leftover chicken and rice.
- For added richness, consider stirring in cream or baby spinach at the end.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 620 mg
- Fat: 8 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 18 g
- Cholesterol: 50 mg
