Description

This Cheats Chicken & Rice Soup is a comforting and easy-to-make recipe perfect for busy weeknights. Using rotisserie chicken and cooked rice, it comes together quickly while delivering a flavorful, hearty dish packed with tender vegetables, herbs, and a bright splash of lemon juice. This gluten-free soup is both nourishing and satisfying, making it a versatile option for any meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables & Herbs

1 small onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 medium carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, sliced
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Liquids & Seasonings

2 tablespoons olive oil
6 cups chicken broth
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Salt to taste
Juice of 1/2 lemon

Main Ingredients

2 cups cooked shredded rotisserie chicken
1 cup cooked white rice

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Instructions

Prepare the vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, sliced carrots, and sliced celery. Cook for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
Add garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Add broth and seasonings: Pour in the chicken broth, then add dried thyme, black pepper, and salt to taste. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
Incorporate chicken and rice: Reduce heat to a simmer, then add the cooked shredded rotisserie chicken and cooked white rice. Let the soup simmer for 5 to 10 minutes until everything is heated through.
Finish with lemon and parsley: Stir in the juice of half a lemon and the chopped fresh parsley just before serving to brighten the flavors.
Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve warm for a comforting meal.

Notes

Using rotisserie chicken and pre-cooked rice makes this soup quick and easy to prepare.
You can substitute brown rice or quinoa for a healthier or gluten-free option.
For added nutrition, add a handful of spinach or kale at the end of cooking just until wilted.
Adjust salt and lemon juice according to taste preferences for balance.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
Calories: 290
Sugar: 3 g
Sodium: 720 mg
Fat: 11 g
Saturated Fat: 2 g
Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 22 g
Fiber: 2 g
Protein: 23 g
Cholesterol: 55 mg