Feel Better Chicken Soup Recipe | Easy Chicken And Rice Soup

When you are feeling under the weather, nothing soothes the body and soul quite like a warm bowl of Feel Better Chicken Soup. Packed with tender chicken, nourishing vegetables, and a flavorful broth, this homemade soup is the ultimate comfort food. Whether you are battling a cold, looking for a cozy meal, or simply craving a homemade classic, this easy, immune-boosting recipe is exactly what you need.

Why You'll Love This Comforting Soup Recipe

• Healing and Nourishing. Made with immune-boosting ingredients like garlic, carrots, and bone broth.
• One-Pot Wonder. Easy cleanup with just one pot to cook everything.
• Customizable. Add noodles, rice, or extra veggies to make it your own.
• Perfect for Meal Prep. Stays fresh for days in the fridge and freezes well.

With simple ingredients and minimal effort, this soup comes together in one pot and fills your kitchen with the most comforting aroma. Make a big batch and enjoy the leftovers throughout the week—it only gets better with time!

Why Is It Called Feel Better Chicken Soup

Feel Better Chicken Soup gets its name because it is nourishing, comforting, and packed with immune-boosting ingredients that help you recover when you're feeling under the weather.

This homemade soup has been a go-to remedy for generations, often served to those with colds, flu, or simply in need of a warm, soothing meal.

What Does It Taste Like?

This homemade chicken soup has a light, savory broth infused with the warmth of garlic, onions, and herbs. The tender chicken and soft, sweet vegetables create a perfect balance of flavor and nutrition.

Unlike canned soup, this version is fresh, clean, and free from preservatives, making it a healthier and more flavorful alternative.

Ingredients You'll Need

• Olive Oil- Used for sautéing the onions, carrots, and celery, which helps develop deeper flavors in the broth. It also adds a slight richness to the soup.
• Onion- Provides a natural sweetness and depth to the broth as it caramelizes slightly when sautéed. It enhances the savory profile of the soup.
• Garlic- Not only does garlic add a rich, aromatic flavor, but it also has immune-boosting properties, making it perfect for a healing soup.
• Carrots- Contributes a slightly sweet flavor and a boost of nutrients, including vitamin A, which supports immune function. The soft texture adds heartiness to the soup.
• Celery Stalks- Adds a mild bitterness and slight crunch that balances the natural sweetness of the carrots. It also enhances the overall texture and depth of flavor.
• Boneless, Skinless Chicken- The main protein of the soup, it cooks until tender and easily shreds, making the soup hearty and filling. Chicken is also rich in essential nutrients that support immune health.
• Chicken Broth- Forms the flavorful base of the soup. Using homemade or low-sodium broth allows better control of the salt levels while keeping the soup rich and nourishing.
• Salt- Enhances all the natural flavors in the soup, bringing out the sweetness of the vegetables and the richness of the broth.
• Black Pepper- Adds a mild heat and slight kick, balancing the overall flavors without making the soup too spicy.
• Dried Thyme- Provides a warm, earthy depth that complements the broth and adds a comforting, home-cooked feel. Thyme also has antioxidant properties that support health.
• Bay Leaf- Infuses the broth with a subtle, herby flavor, adding complexity to the overall taste. It enhances the savory and aromatic qualities of the soup.
• Rice- Adds a heartier, more filling texture, turning the soup into a comforting, well-rounded meal. White or brown rice both work well, depending on preference.
• Lemon- Brightens the overall flavors and provides a fresh citrusy contrast to the rich broth. It also adds a dose of vitamin C, which is great for immune support.
• Parsley- A final touch of herbal freshness, enhancing the presentation while adding a mild, refreshing taste to balance the warmth of the soup.

Whether you’re fighting off a cold or just craving a cozy meal, this soup is a perfect go-to recipe!

How To Make Feel Better Chicken Soup

1. Sauté the Aromatics. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions, carrots, and celery, cooking for 5 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Add the Chicken and Broth. Place the chicken breasts or thighs into the pot. Pour in the chicken broth, then add salt, black pepper, thyme, and bay leaf. Stir to combine.
3. Simmer Until Tender. Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Let it simmer for 25–30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
4. Shred the Chicken. Remove the cooked chicken from the pot and shred it with two forks. Return it to the soup and stir to combine.
5. Add Optional Ingredients. If using rice, rinse thoroughly add it now and cook until tender. For extra brightness, squeeze in the lemon juice.
6. Serve and Enjoy. Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve warm and feel the comforting goodness in every bite.

Tips And Tricks

A warm bowl of Feel Better Chicken Soup is healing, nourishing, and comforting, but a few expert tips can take your soup from good to incredibly flavorful and rich. Whether you’re making it for a loved one, meal prepping, or just craving a cozy dish, these tricks will help you get the best results every time:

• Use Bone-In Chicken for Extra Flavor. Bone-in chicken releases natural collagen and nutrients for a richer broth.
• Make it in a Slow Cooker. Cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3–4 hours, then shred the chicken before serving.
• For a Thicker Soup. Mash some of the cooked carrots or add ½ cup of mashed potatoes.
• Store Properly for Best Freshness. Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for 4 days or freeze for 3 months.

Variations

Feel Better Chicken Soup is a classic, comforting dish, but it can be customized in so many ways to match your taste preferences or dietary needs. Whether you want a heartier, spicier, or low-carb version, these variations will take your soup to the next level:

• Classic- Stir in egg noodles for a traditional take.
• Lemon- Add extra lemon juice and zest for a bright, zesty twist.
• Ginger-Turmeric- Boost immune support with fresh grated ginger and turmeric.
• Creamy- Stir in ½ cup heavy cream or coconut milk for a rich texture.
• Spicy- Add ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for extra warmth.

What To Eat With Feel Better Chicken Soup

A warm bowl of Feel Better Chicken Soup is comforting on its own, but pairing it with the right sides can make it even more satisfying. Whether you’re looking for crunchy, savory, or light and refreshing accompaniments, here are some of the best options to serve with it:

• Bread or Dinner Rolls- Perfect for soaking up the broth.
• Grilled Cheese- A cozy pairing for extra comfort.
• Crackers- Classic and simple, adding a nice crunch.
• Salad- A light, fresh contrast to the warm soup.

How Long Does It Last?

Feel Better Chicken Soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in an airtight container, making it a great option for meal prep or leftovers.

The flavors continue to develop over time, making the soup even more delicious the next day.

Can You Freeze It?

If you want to store it for longer, it freezes well for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. To prevent mushy textures, it's best to freeze the soup without rice and add them fresh when reheating.

When you're ready to enjoy it, reheat the soup on the stovetop over low to medium heat until warmed through, or use the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.

More Spectacular Soup Recipes

• Chicken Gnocchi Soup
• Pozole Verde
• Alphabet Soup
• Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup
• Green Chicken Enchilada Soup

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