1. SAUTÉ THE VEGETABLES:
- In a large pot, heat the olive oilover medium heat.
- Add the onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes or until the vegetables have softened and the onion becomes translucent.
- Stir in the garlic and sauté for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant. If you’re using dried rosemary, thyme, or turmeric, add them at this stage, stirring to combine.
2. ADD THE BROTH AND SEASONINGS:
- Pour in the chicken broth, and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Add the bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine, and taste for seasoning, adding more salt or pepper as needed.
- Bring the broth to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer and cover. Let it cook for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
3. ADD RICE AND CHICKEN:
- Once the broth is simmering, add the uncooked rice to the pot. Stir it in, then cover and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and fully cooked.
- While the rice cooks, shred your cooked chicken (if you’re using rotisserie chicken, it’s super easy to just shred it with two forks).
4. COMBINE AND SIMMER:
- Once the rice is cooked, add the shredded chicken to the pot and stir well.
- Simmer for another 5-10 minutesto heat the chicken through and let all the flavors marry.
- If the soup thickens too much, add an extra 1/2 to 1 cup of chicken broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
5. ADD LEMON AND ADJUST SEASONING:
- Stir in the lemon juice for a burst of freshness and a touch of acidity that balances the richness of the soup.
- Taste the soup once more, adjusting the salt and pepper if needed.
6. SERVE AND GARNISH:
- Once the soup is hot, remove the bay leaf and serve the soup in bowls.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a light drizzle of olive oil for added flavor and a glossy finish.
7. ENJOY!
- Serve the soup warm, accompanied by crusty bread or crackers for dipping. This hearty chicken and rice soup is perfect for cozying up on a chilly evening or serving as a comforting meal anytime.
Why This Recipe Works
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