Slow cooker chicken rice soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for a chilly evening or when you’re feeling under the weather. There’s something so nurturing about a warm bowl of chicken soup, and this slow cooker version simplifies the process without sacrificing any of the delicious flavor. This hearty chicken rice soup recipe reminds me of my grandmother’s kitchen, filled with the aroma of simmering chicken and vegetables. It’s a meal that brings back happy memories and provides a sense of well being. It’s so exciting to share another version of my popular Easy Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe! This slow cooker chicken rice soup is the perfect solution for those busy weeknights when you crave a home cooked meal.
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Why You Will Love This slow cooker chicken rice soup Recipe
This slow cooker chicken rice soup brings back all those comforting memories. What’s not to love? It’s incredibly easy to throw together, and the hands off cooking method means you can set it and forget it. The slow cooking process infuses the chicken and vegetables with incredible flavor, creating a soup that is both satisfying and nourishing. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up leftover cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken. The result? A hearty chicken rice soup that tastes like it simmered all day, because it did!
Ingredients Needed for This slow cooker chicken rice soup Recipe
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup long grain rice, uncooked
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How to Make This slow cooker chicken rice soup Recipe
- 1. Place chicken thighs in the bottom of your slow cooker.
- 2. Add chicken broth, rice, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
- 3. Stir to combine all ingredients.
- 4. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours.
- 5. After the cooking time, remove the chicken thighs from the slow cooker and shred them using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker.
- 6. Stir well to combine the shredded chicken with the soup.
- 7. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Add more salt or pepper, if desired.
- 8. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
How to Serve This slow cooker chicken rice soup Recipe
Serve this delicious slow cooker chicken rice soup hot, straight from the slow cooker! It’s wonderful on its own as a complete meal, or you can pair it with a side of crusty bread for dipping. Consider topping each bowl with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of shredded cheese for extra richness. A simple side salad also complements the soup nicely. Follow us on Pinterest for more comforting recipes and serving suggestions!
How to Store This slow cooker chicken rice soup Recipe
To store leftover slow cooker chicken rice soup, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the soup in freezer safe containers or bags for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Tips to Make This slow cooker chicken rice soup Recipe
- For a richer flavor, use bone in chicken thighs instead of boneless. Just remember to remove the bones after cooking and before shredding the chicken.
- If you prefer a thicker soup, you can add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Avoid adding the rice too early, as it can become mushy. If you are cooking for a longer period, consider adding the rice in the last hour of cooking.
- Don’t overcook, especially on high, or the rice will be mushy. Aim for an al dente tenderness.
Helpful Notes for This slow cooker chicken rice soup Recipe
Chicken thighs are preferred for this recipe because they stay moist and tender during the slow cooking process. However, you can substitute with chicken breasts if you prefer – just be careful not to overcook them. Long grain rice works best in this recipe, but you can also use converted rice (like Uncle Ben’s) or brown rice. If using brown rice, you may need to add extra cooking time. Make sure your slow cooker is at least a 6 quart capacity to accommodate all the ingredients.
Variation of This slow cooker chicken rice soup Recipe
- Add vegetables: Other vegetables like peas, green beans, or corn are delicious additions. Stir them in during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Creamy variation: Stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end of the cooking time for a richer, creamier soup.
- Lemon Chicken Rice Soup: Incorporate lemon juice during the last 15 minutes for a zesty variation.
Can I use brown rice in slow cooker chicken rice soup?
How long does slow cooker chicken rice soup last in the fridge?
Can I freeze slow cooker chicken rice soup?
What kind of chicken is best for slow cooker chicken rice soup?
Should I cook the rice before adding it to the slow cooker chicken rice soup?
Conclusion
This hearty and flavorful slow cooker chicken rice soup is sure to become a family favorite. It’s a simple, comforting meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or any time you need a little bit of home style goodness. So, gather your ingredients, and let your slow cooker do the work. Enjoy every spoonful of this delicious slow cooker chicken rice soup!