Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice Soup

There’s something irresistibly cozy about a warm bowl of chicken and rice soup, especially when it’s made in the slow cooker. Imagine a rich and savory broth enveloping tender chicken and perfectly cooked rice, with fresh vegetables adding a delightful crunch. On chilly evenings or family gatherings, this dish becomes a comforting staple that everyone looks forward to. Interestingly, this recipe embodies a cherished family tradition of mine—my grandmother would always make it for us after long days of school. It’s familiar, wholesome, and best of all, utterly uncomplicated! If you’re searching for something equally gratifying yet effortlessly achievable, you might also enjoy my popular Creamy Tomato Basil Soup. While both offer distinct flavors, they share the same heartwarming essence that makes for a perfect family meal!

What is Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice Soup?

So, what exactly is Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice Soup? Well, it’s about as straightforward as the name suggests! Imagine a dish so delightful that it makes you wonder if it could possibly be that easy to prepare. The truth is, it really is! As the saying goes, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and this tasty soup will surely capture the hearts of your loved ones. Picture this: chunks of tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a garden of vegetables simmering together—what’s not to love? Come join me on this culinary adventure! Let’s whip up something extraordinary together.

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice Soup

This Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice Soup is not just a dish; it’s the star of your weeknight dinners! First, the main highlight is its simplicity. Toss in your ingredients, and let the slow cooker work its magic while you enjoy precious moments with your family. Secondly, you’ll find that cooking at home is a fantastic way to save money in the long run. Why splurge on takeout when you can have a fresh, homemade meal with just a fraction of the cost? Finally, don’t forget the flavorful toppings! A sprinkle of fresh herbs or a dash of lemon can truly elevate each bowl. While it’s similar to the classic chicken and vegetable soup, my version takes a delightful twist with the addition of rice that absorbs all the flavors beautifully. Ready to fill your kitchen with the inviting aroma of this delightful soup? Let’s get started!

How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice Soup

Quick Overview

Making this Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice Soup is as easy as pie—minus the crust, of course! The combination of soft, shredded chicken and tender rice, all steeped in a rich broth, creates a satisfying dish that will warm your soul. The best part? You can have it prepped in just 15 minutes, and then let the slow cooker do the heavy lifting!

Key Ingredients for Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice Soup

To prepare this delightful dish, you will need:

• 1 lb (about 450g) Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Trimmed and chopped into bite-sized pieces.
• 1 cup Long-Grain White Rice: Rinsed and drained.
• 4 cups Chicken Broth: Low-sodium for flavor control.
• 1 cup Carrots: Diced, adding sweetness and color.
• 1 cup Celery: Chopped for crunch and aroma.
• 1 medium Onion: Diced for flavor depth.
• 3 cloves Garlic: Minced, for that aromatic kick.
• 1 tsp Dried Thyme: Earthy and fragrant.
• 1 tsp Dried Oregano: Adds an herbaceous touch.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste, enhancing all the flavors.
• 2 Bay Leaves: For an extra layer of flavor (remove before serving).
• 1 cup Frozen Peas: Stirred in at the end for bright color and sweetness.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by washing and chopping all your vegetables and chicken as noted in the key ingredients. Having everything prepped will make the process smoother.
2. Add Ingredients to Slow Cooker: In your slow cooker, place the chicken pieces, long-grain rice, diced carrots, chopped celery, diced onion, and minced garlic. Pour in the chicken broth, then sprinkle in thyme and oregano. Season with salt and pepper, and add the bay leaves.
3. Stir It Up: Give everything a good stir to distribute the ingredients evenly throughout the broth.
4. Set Your Slow Cooker: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for about 4 hours. If you’re home, give it a stir halfway through to ensure even cooking.
5. Ready to Serve: About 30 minutes before serving, add the frozen peas and discard the bay leaves. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls, and feel free to garnish with fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon for extra freshness.

Top Tips for Perfecting Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice Soup

1. Meat Substitution: If you prefer, replace chicken with diced turkey for a different flavor, just ensure it is Halal-compliant.
2. Rice Variations: Brown rice or quinoa can be excellent alternatives; just adjust cooking times accordingly, as they may require more liquid and a longer cooking duration.
3. Add More Vegetables: Get creative! Adding zucchini, spinach, or corn can boost nutrition and flavor. Just make sure to include vegetables that cook well within your chosen timeframe.
4. Avoiding Common Mistakes: Keep an eye on the cook time; overcooking can lead to mushy rice and chicken. Aim for the suggested timings for the best texture.

Storing and Reheating Tips

This Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice Soup is perfect for meal prep! After cooling down, store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth to maintain a perfect consistency.

Now you’re all set to create a comforting bowl of Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice Soup that will nourish both body and soul. Gather your loved ones, share a smile, and savor each bite of this delightful meal! Enjoy!

Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice Soup

A cozy and hearty chicken and rice soup made easily in a slow cooker, perfect for weeknight dinners or chilly evenings.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 8 hours hrs

Total Time 8 hours hrs 15 minutes mins

Course Main Course, Soup

Cuisine American

Servings 6 servings

Calories 250 kcal

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 lb Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts Trimmed and chopped into bite-sized pieces.
• 1 cup Long-Grain White Rice Rinsed and drained.
• 4 cups Chicken Broth Low-sodium for flavor control.
• 1 cup Carrots Diced, adding sweetness and color.
• 1 cup Celery Chopped for crunch and aroma.
• 1 medium Onion Diced for flavor depth.
• 3 cloves Garlic Minced, for that aromatic kick.
• 1 tsp Dried Thyme Earthy and fragrant.
• 1 tsp Dried Oregano Adds an herbaceous touch.
• to taste Salt and Pepper Enhancing all the flavors.
• 2 Bay Leaves For an extra layer of flavor (remove before serving).
• 1 cup Frozen Peas Stirred in at the end for bright color and sweetness.

Instructions

 

Preparation

• Start by washing and chopping all your vegetables and chicken as noted in the key ingredients.
• In your slow cooker, place the chicken pieces, long-grain rice, diced carrots, chopped celery, diced onion, and minced garlic.
• Pour in the chicken broth, then sprinkle in thyme and oregano. Season with salt and pepper, and add the bay leaves.
• Give everything a good stir to distribute the ingredients evenly throughout the broth.

Cooking

• Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for about 4 hours. If you’re home, give it a stir halfway through to ensure even cooking.
• About 30 minutes before serving, add the frozen peas and discard the bay leaves. Adjust seasoning if necessary.

Serving

• Ladle the soup into bowls, and feel free to garnish with fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon for extra freshness.

Notes

This soup can be made with different proteins like diced turkey. You can also use brown rice or quinoa, but adjust cooking times accordingly. Adding more vegetables like zucchini or spinach can enhance nutrition and flavor.

Keyword Chicken Soup, Comfort Food, Easy Recipe, Family Meal, Slow Cooker Soup