Chicken and Rice Soup

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)

Preparation

1. 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.

1. 1. 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.

1. 1. 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.