Chicken and Rice Soup Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 cup uncooked rice (white, brown, or basmati)
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: 1 bay leaf for added flavor
• Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• Juice of 1/2 lemon (optional, for a fresh flavor boost)

Instructions:

1. Sauté the Vegetables:
   • Heat the olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
   • Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
2. Cook the Rice:
   • Add the uncooked rice to the pot and stir it around to coat the rice with the oil and mix it with the vegetables.
   • Pour in the chicken broth and add the dried thyme, parsley, and bay leaf if using. Bring the mixture to a boil.
3. Simmer the Soup:
   • Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked.
4. Add the Chicken:
   • Once the rice is tender, add the cooked chicken to the pot. Stir to combine and let it heat through for about 5 minutes.
5. Season and Serve:
   • Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper.
   • If desired, add the juice of 1/2 a lemon for a fresh, bright flavor.
6. Garnish and Enjoy:
   • Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro.
   • Serve hot, with crusty bread or crackers on the side.

This chicken and rice soup is warm, comforting, and perfect for a cozy meal. You can customize it by adding more vegetables or using different types of rice to suit your taste.