Hearty Chicken 'N Rice Soup
A comforting chicken and rice soup with tender vegetables, creamy cheese, and savory chicken, perfect for cozy meals and satisfying the whole family.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine chicken broth, cold water, rice, celery slices, and carrot slices in a pot.
- Cover and simmer for 20 to 25 minutes or until vegetables and rice are tender.
- Add cubed Velveeta cheese, chopped cooked chicken or turkey, and drained mushrooms to the pot.
- Stir until the cheese spread is melted and the soup is heated through.
- Serve hot. Yields 5 one-cup servings.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, you can substitute half of the chicken broth with milk or heavy cream. If you're out of Velveeta, try using any melty cheese like cheddar or Monterey Jack. Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley can enhance the flavor. For a heartier soup, consider adding diced potatoes or peas, which can complement the flavors and textures of this dish.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty chicken 'n rice soup is perfect on its own, but you can elevate the meal by serving it with warm crusty bread or a side salad. For a complete dinner, pair it with a light dessert like fruit salad or a slice of pie. It also pairs beautifully with Chicken Casserole(Good) for a comforting meal.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pour the soup into a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. If the soup has thickened, add a splash of chicken broth or water to achieve your desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hearty Chicken 'N Rice Soup contains roughly 439 calories, with 18g protein, 88g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (102% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (92% of the Daily Value), and protein (37% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1155mg per serving (50% 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 rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using leftover rotisserie chicken is a great way to add flavor and save time. Just be sure to shred the chicken before adding it to the soup, so it heats through evenly. This can make the preparation even quicker and more convenient.
Is it possible to make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can prepare this soup in a slow cooker! Simply add all the ingredients except the cheese during the first few hours on low. Add the Velveeta cheese during the last 30 minutes to allow it to melt into the soup. This method is great for busy days when you want a warm meal ready when you get home.
What can I do if the soup is too thick?
If the soup turns out too thick, simply stir in some additional chicken broth or water until it reaches your desired consistency. It's best to add liquid gradually while stirring to ensure even mixing. This adjustment keeps the soup flavorful without diluting it too much.
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).