Chicken Tomato Rice Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that warms you from the inside out, let me introduce you to my beloved Chicken Tomato Rice Soup. This recipe is not just a meal; it’s a comforting hug in a bowl! Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, it brings everyone together with its rich flavors and heartiness. Each spoonful is filled with tender chicken, vibrant veggies, and just the right amount of spice. Trust me, once you try this Chicken Tomato Rice Soup, it will quickly become a go-to favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delicious soup even on the busiest evenings.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike love the combination of flavors and textures in this hearty soup.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: This soup stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers.
• Customizable Toppings: From creamy avocado to crunchy tortilla chips, you can add your favorite toppings for each serving.
• Comforting Flavor: With its blend of spices and fresh ingredients, every bowl is bursting with warmth and comfort.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making this Chicken Tomato Rice Soup is easy with these simple, wholesome ingredients. You might already have many of them in your pantry!

For the Soup Base

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 pound chicken thighs (thinly sliced into 2-inch pieces)
• 1/2 large onion, thinly sliced
• 1 red bell pepper (thinly sliced then halved)
• 1 orange bell pepper (thinly sliced then halved)
• 1 yellow bell pepper (thinly sliced then halved)
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)

Seasoning & Bulk

• 2 tablespoons flour
• 2 teaspoons chicken bouillon powder
• 1 teaspoon EACH salt, chili powder, ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon EACH smoked paprika, pepper, dried oregano

For the Heartiness

• 3/4 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked (I recommend basmati)
• 1 15 oz. can black beans (rinsed and drained)
• 1 4 oz. can mild diced green chilies
• 1 14 oz. can crushed tomatoes
• 4 14.5 oz. cans low sodium chicken broth

For Serving

• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 cup freshly grated Pepper Jack cheese (or more to taste)
• Tortilla chips/strips
• Fresh cilantro
• Sour cream
• Avocados
• Tomatoes
• Lime juice
• Hot sauce to taste

Variations

This Chicken Tomato Rice Soup is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or what your family loves.

• Change the Protein: Swap out chicken for turkey or even shredded rotisserie chicken for a quicker option.
• Add More Veggies: Toss in some spinach or kale right before serving for an extra boost of nutrition.
• Spice It Up: If you like heat, add some diced jalapeños or a splash of your favorite hot sauce while cooking.
• Make It Creamy: Stir in some coconut milk or cream at the end for a richer texture.

How to Make Chicken Tomato Rice Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Chicken and Onions

Melt butter in olive oil over medium-high heat in a large Dutch oven or soup pot. Add the chicken and onions and sauté for about three minutes until the onions are soft and fragrant. This step is essential as it builds the base flavor for your soup.

Step 2: Add Peppers and Spices

Next, toss in those colorful bell peppers along with minced garlic, flour, and all your seasonings. Cook everything together for about two minutes while stirring constantly. This helps release those aromatic flavors from the spices and ensures they coat all the ingredients nicely.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Now it’s time to stir in your rice, black beans, green chilies, crushed tomatoes, and three cans of chicken broth. Mix cornstarch with the last can of chicken broth before adding it to the pot. Bring everything to a boil before reducing the heat to medium-low. Let it simmer for about 8-12 minutes until your rice is cooked through—check occasionally as cooking times may vary!

Step 4: Finish with Cheese

Once cooked, remove your soup from heat and stir in that delicious Pepper Jack cheese until it’s melted and gooey. If you prefer a thinner consistency, feel free to add more broth or water at this stage. Garnish individual servings with all your favorite toppings like tortilla chips or fresh cilantro for that extra special touch.

Now you’re all set! Serve up bowls of this delightful Chicken Tomato Rice Soup that will surely bring smiles all around! Enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making Chicken Tomato Rice Soup

Making a delicious Chicken Tomato Rice Soup is all about the little details! Here are some pro tips to elevate your cooking experience and flavor:

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and spices bring vibrant flavors to your soup, making it more aromatic and delicious. Always opt for fresh bell peppers, herbs, and tomatoes when possible.
• Adjust the spice level: If you’re a fan of heat, feel free to add more chili powder or a splash of hot sauce. This allows you to customize the soup to your taste preference, ensuring everyone enjoys their bowl!
• Let it simmer: Allowing the soup to simmer longer will deepen the flavors and make the broth richer. Don’t rush this process; take your time to let all those wonderful ingredients meld together.
• Experiment with rice varieties: While basmati rice is recommended, trying different types like jasmine or brown rice can give your soup a unique twist. Each variety offers its own flavor and texture!
• Store leftovers properly: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheating on low heat while adding a splash of broth will keep your soup moist and tasty.

How to Serve Chicken Tomato Rice Soup

Serving your Chicken Tomato Rice Soup can be just as fun as making it! Here are some ideas to present this delicious dish beautifully:

Garnishes

• Fresh cilantro: A sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro adds a burst of color and freshness that brightens up each bowl.
• Sour cream: A dollop of sour cream provides a creamy contrast that’s perfect for balancing the flavors of the soup.
• Avocado slices: Adding creamy avocado slices not only enhances flavor but also makes for an appealing presentation.

Side Dishes

• Crusty bread: A loaf of warm crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the soup and soaking up every last drop of that flavorful broth.
• Simple green salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the soup while adding freshness.
• Cornbread: Sweet cornbread pairs wonderfully with this savory soup. Its sweetness balances out the spices and gives you that comforting homestyle feeling.
• Grilled cheese sandwiches: Who doesn’t love a classic grilled cheese? This childhood favorite makes a delightful side that you can dip right into your soup!

Enjoy every spoonful of your Chicken Tomato Rice Soup with these serving suggestions! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chicken Tomato Rice Soup is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a large batch and store it for busy weeknights, ensuring you have a comforting bowl of goodness ready whenever you need it.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• To keep the rice from getting too mushy, consider storing the rice separately if you plan to enjoy leftovers later in the week.

Freezing

• Let the soup cool down entirely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion as the soup freezes.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Just remember to label your containers with the date!

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, or use the microwave on defrost mode.
• Reheat on the stove over medium heat until hot, adding extra broth or water if needed to adjust consistency.
• Stir occasionally and enjoy when heated through!

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Chicken Tomato Rice Soup that might help you out!

Can I use other types of rice in this Chicken Tomato Rice Soup?

Absolutely! While long-grain white rice is recommended, you can experiment with brown rice or even quinoa for a different texture. Just adjust cooking times accordingly!

How do I make this Chicken Tomato Rice Soup vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version, simply replace chicken with your favorite plant-based protein and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The flavors will still shine through!

What toppings can I add to my Chicken Tomato Rice Soup?

Feel free to get creative! Toppings like avocado slices, fresh cilantro, tortilla chips, or a dollop of sour cream (or dairy-free alternatives) work beautifully.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Chicken Tomato Rice Soup becomes a cherished recipe in your home as it has in mine! Its comforting flavors and ease of preparation make it perfect for any occasion. Enjoy making it, share with loved ones, and relish every warm spoonful. Cooking should always be fun and fulfilling—happy cooking!