Chicken Chard And Rice Soup(Nice With A Crusty Loaf Of Bread)
A hearty, flavorful soup combining tender Swiss chard, rice, and Parmesan in a comforting broth—perfect for a nourishing meal with crusty bread. Suitable for all seasons.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash the Swiss chard well; cut into 1/2-inch wide strips, including both leaves and stalks.
- In a 4 to 5-quart pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened.
- Add the chopped Swiss chard; stir to coat with butter.
- Cover the pot and cook for 4 to 5 minutes to wilt the chard.
- Pour in 6 cups of chicken broth; bring to a boil and add the rice.
- Cover and cook over medium heat until the rice is tender, about 20 minutes.
- If the soup becomes too thick, add more broth as needed.
- When the rice is done, stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese and minced parsley.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt if necessary.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and a crusty loaf of bread.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding garlic when sautéing the onion. If Swiss chard is not available, spinach or kale can be good substitutes. Adjust the type of cheese used; Gruyère can provide a different taste. To enhance the broth's flavor, add a bay leaf during cooking and remove it before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this comforting soup hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese. A crusty loaf of bread complements it perfectly for dipping. For a complete meal, consider pairing it with a light salad or a side of roasted vegetables. It can also be enjoyed alongside Mediterranean recipes for a diverse dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth to maintain the soup's consistency, as it may thicken when chilled. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat to prevent the rice from becoming mushy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Chard And Rice Soup(Nice With A Crusty Loaf Of Bread) contains roughly 200 calories, with 8g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (51% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 910mg per serving (40% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use leftover chicken in this soup?
Absolutely! If you have leftover cooked chicken, shred it and add it to the soup during the last few minutes of cooking to heat through. This adds protein and flavor, making it a heartier dish.
Is there a vegetarian version of this soup?
Yes! You can easily make a vegetarian version by substituting vegetable broth for chicken broth and omitting any chicken. You can also add beans or lentils for added protein and texture.
How can I make this soup creamy?
For a creamy version, stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk just before serving. This adds richness and a velvety texture, enhancing the overall flavor of the soup.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).