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 medium onion, diced; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 2 carrots, sliced; 2 celery stalks, sliced; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1 zucchini, diced; 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded; 1/2 cup brown rice; 6 cups chicken broth; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Feel-Good Healthy Eats

I love making this Healthy Chicken Vegetable Rice Soup, especially on chilly days when I crave something warm and wholesome. The blend of tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and fluffy rice creates a comforting bowl that nourishes both body and soul. I’ve discovered that using fresh herbs and a natural homemade broth elevates the flavors, making it a hearty dish the whole family loves. Plus, it’s an excellent way to use up any leftover chicken or vegetables in your fridge. Cozy up with this delicious soup – you won’t regret it!

Created by

Harper Collins

Last updated on 2026-02-23T23:17:36.584Z

When I first made this Healthy Chicken Vegetable Rice Soup, I was amazed at how simple ingredients could transform into something so flavorful and satisfying. The secret is in the broth! I always prefer to use homemade chicken stock, as it adds depth to the soup that enhances every spoonful. Swapping out ordinary vegetables for seasonal picks can also make a big difference, putting a unique twist on each batch.

One of my favorite aspects of this soup is its versatility. It’s perfect for incorporating various vegetables based on what’s in season or on sale. I typically throw in whatever I have on hand, often sneaking in some kale for added nutrition. This way, I can create a new masterpiece every time I whip up a batch!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Packed with wholesome ingredients and vibrant flavors
Customizable with your favorite vegetables and spices
A comforting meal that's perfect for any time of year

Understanding the Base Flavors

The foundation of this Healthy Chicken Vegetable Rice Soup lies in its broth, which plays a crucial role in absorbing the flavors of the other ingredients. Using homemade chicken broth, if possible, enhances the richness and depth of flavor significantly. You can simmer a rotisserie chicken carcass or leftover bones with aromatics like onion, garlic, and herbs for about 1-2 hours. Alternatively, high-quality store-bought broth will suffice, but always taste it beforehand to adjust the saltiness in your final dish.

Sautéing the vegetables at the beginning helps develop a caramelized sweetness that adds layers of flavor. It’s important to cook the onion until it's translucent, as this indicates it’s released its natural sugars. If you find your vegetables sticking to the pot, you can add a splash more of olive oil to prevent browning and ensure optimal flavor extraction.

Customize to Your Taste

One of the best parts about this soup is its versatility. Feel free to swap in your favorite seasonal vegetables, like green beans or peas, which can provide a pop of color and nutrition. If you're looking for a heartier option, consider adding potatoes or beans for additional fiber and protein. Just remember to adjust the cooking time accordingly, particularly for starchy ingredients loaded with moisture that may alter the soup's consistency.

You can also change the type of rice used in this recipe. While brown rice adds a nutty flavor and takes a bit longer to cook, you can opt for white rice or even quinoa if you prefer a quicker cooking time and lighter texture. If you choose a faster-cooking grain like white rice or quinoa, reduce the simmering time to 15 minutes, ensuring they don’t turn mushy.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Healthy Chicken Vegetable Rice Soup

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, sliced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 zucchini, diced
1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
1/2 cup brown rice
6 cups chicken broth
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Sauté Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes. Stir in the garlic, carrots, celery, and bell pepper, cooking for another 5 minutes.

Add Chicken and Rice

Stir in the shredded chicken, zucchini, and brown rice. Mix well, allowing the ingredients to blend for 2-3 minutes.

Pour in Broth

Add the chicken broth, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 25 minutes, or until the rice is tender.

Garnish and Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Pro Tips

Using leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken can save time without sacrificing flavor. Feel free to switch the rice for quinoa or barley for an exciting twist!

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This soup stores exceptionally well and can be kept in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop over medium heat until it’s hot throughout, taking care not to let it boil too harshly to avoid overcooking the vegetables. If you want to prepare it in advance, consider cooking the rice separately and adding it just before serving to maintain its texture.

For long-term storage, this soup freezes well. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to airtight containers or freezer bags, removing any excess air. You can freeze it for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy, defrost it overnight in the fridge or use a microwave for a quick thaw. Then reheat until piping hot, and don’t forget to garnish with fresh parsley for a burst of flavor.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your soup turns out too salty, adding a splash of lemon juice or a diced potato can help balance the flavors. The potato will absorb excess salt while adding creaminess. Just let it simmer in the soup for about 10-15 minutes before removing it again.

Should you find the soup too thick, simply add a little more chicken broth or water until you reach your desired consistency. Always adjust the seasonings again after alteration to ensure a harmonious balance. Remember that as it cools, the soup will naturally thicken, so consider that when determining your finishing texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, frozen vegetables work great and save time!

→ Is there a vegetarian version?

Absolutely! Substitute chicken with chickpeas and use vegetable broth.

→ How long can leftovers be stored?

Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container.

→ Can this soup be frozen?

Yes, you can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Just make sure to leave out the rice, which can be added fresh when reheating.