Chicken Tomato Rice Soup

This Chicken Tomato Rice Soup is a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for any occasion. It’s packed with wholesome ingredients, including tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and hearty rice. Whether you’re warming up on a chilly day or serving guests at a gathering, this soup is sure to impress. Its unique combination of spices and textures makes it stand out while being incredibly easy to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This soup can be ready in just 45 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknight dinners.
• Flavorful Ingredients: Each bowl is filled with the rich flavors of chicken, tomatoes, and spices that will tantalize your taste buds.
• Versatile Serving Options: Customize your soup with toppings like avocado, cilantro, and cheese for added texture and flavor.
• Healthy Choice: Packed with protein from chicken and fiber from beans, this soup is both nutritious and satisfying.
• Family-Friendly: A hit with both kids and adults alike, it’s an easy way to enjoy a variety of ingredients in one delicious meal.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Chicken Tomato Rice Soup efficiently, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large Dutch oven or soup pot
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Large Dutch oven or soup pot: Perfect for simmering soups evenly without burning them.
• Sharp knife: Essential for quickly chopping vegetables and chicken without hassle.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient portions for consistent flavor every time.

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Ingredients

• 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)
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 2 teaspoons chicken bouillon powder
• 1 tsp EACH salt, chili powder, ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp EACH smoked paprika, pepper, dried oregano
• 3/4 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked (basmati recommended)
• 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
• 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

How to Make Chicken Tomato Rice Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Base Ingredients

Melt butter in olive oil over medium-high heat in a large Dutch oven or soup pot. Add chicken thighs and onions; sauté for about three minutes until they start to brown.

Step 2: Add Vegetables and Spices

Add red, orange, and yellow bell peppers along with minced garlic, flour, chicken bouillon powder, salt, chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, pepper, and dried oregano. Cook while stirring constantly for two minutes.

Step 3: Combine Remaining Ingredients

Stir in uncooked 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 soup mixture. Bring everything to a boil.

Step 4: Simmer Until Done

Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for about eight to twelve minutes or until the rice is fully cooked. Keep stirring occasionally.

Step 5: Finish with Cheese

Remove from heat once cooked through. Stir in freshly grated Pepper Jack cheese until melted. If you prefer a thinner consistency for your soup, add additional chicken broth or water as needed.

Step 6: Serve with Toppings

Garnish individual servings with tortilla chips or strips, fresh cilantro, sour cream, diced avocados, fresh tomatoes, lime juice, and hot sauce according to your taste preferences. Enjoy!

How to Serve Chicken Tomato Rice Soup

Serving Chicken Tomato Rice Soup is a delightful experience that can be customized to suit your taste. This comforting dish can be enjoyed on its own or enhanced with various toppings and sides.

Toppings to Enhance Your Soup

• Fresh Cilantro – Add a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for a burst of flavor and color.
• Avocado Slices – Creamy avocado slices provide richness and balance the soup’s acidity.
• Lime Wedges – A squeeze of lime juice brightens the dish and adds freshness.
• Tortilla Chips – Crunchy tortilla chips give texture and an extra layer of flavor.
• Sour Cream – A dollop of sour cream creates creaminess, making each spoonful more satisfying.
• Hot Sauce – For those who love heat, a dash of hot sauce will kick up the flavor.

Bread Pairings

• Crusty Bread Rolls – Serve warm rolls for dipping into the soup; they are perfect for soaking up every drop.
• Garlic Bread – A side of garlic bread complements the flavors beautifully while adding extra crunch.

How to Perfect Chicken Tomato Rice Soup

Perfecting Chicken Tomato Rice Soup is about balancing flavors and ensuring a delightful texture. Here are some tips to elevate your soup:

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh vegetables enhance the overall taste and nutritional value of your soup.
• Adjust Seasonings – Taste as you go and adjust seasonings according to your preference for a more personalized flavor profile.
• Cook Rice Separately – For better texture, consider cooking rice separately and adding it just before serving to avoid mushiness.
• Simmer Slowly – Allow the soup to simmer gently; this helps develop deeper flavors as all ingredients meld together.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Tomato Rice Soup

Pairing side dishes with Chicken Tomato Rice Soup can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options that complement its flavors:

1. Grilled Cheese Sandwich – The classic combo adds a cheesy, crunchy element that pairs perfectly with the soup’s warmth.
2. Mixed Green Salad – A light salad with vinaigrette brings freshness and balances the heartiness of the soup.
3. Cornbread Muffins – Sweet cornbread muffins offer a delightful contrast in flavor and texture, making them an excellent choice.
4. Stuffed Peppers – Colorful stuffed peppers filled with quinoa or rice add substance and pair nicely with the soup’s flavors.
5. Baked Potatoes – Fluffy baked potatoes can be topped with cheese or sour cream, providing a comforting side option.
6. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted vegetables bring additional nutrients and earthy flavors, enhancing your meal experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common pitfalls can make your Chicken Tomato Rice Soup even better. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Using the wrong chicken cut: Opting for chicken breasts instead of thighs may result in a drier soup. Thighs add more flavor and tenderness.
• Skipping the sauté step: Not sautéing the vegetables and chicken can lead to a lack of depth in flavor. Always sauté before adding other ingredients for enhanced taste.
• Overcooking the rice: Allowing the rice to cook too long will make it mushy. Keep an eye on your soup to ensure the rice is just tender.
• Using low-quality broth: Poor-quality broth can dull the flavors of your soup. Choose a good quality low-sodium chicken broth for the best results.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Not tasting and adjusting seasonings can leave your soup bland. Always taste before serving to enhance the flavors as needed.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Chicken Tomato Rice Soup

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Chicken Tomato Rice Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Chicken Tomato Rice Soup:

Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?

Yes! Leftover cooked chicken works great in this soup. Just add it during the last few minutes of cooking.

How can I customize Chicken Tomato Rice Soup?

You can add different vegetables like zucchini or corn, or swap out the rice for quinoa for a unique twist.

What if I don’t have chicken broth?

You can substitute with vegetable broth or a mix of water and additional seasonings for flavor.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This Chicken Tomato Rice Soup stores well and tastes even better after sitting overnight.

Can I make this soup spicy?

Certainly! Add jalapeños or your favorite hot sauce during cooking to increase the heat level.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Tomato Rice Soup is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices. Give it a try, and enjoy a hearty meal that warms you from the inside out!

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Chicken Tomato Rice Soup

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• Author: Vera
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Indulge in a warm bowl of Chicken Tomato Rice Soup, the perfect meal for any occasion. This hearty dish combines tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and wholesome rice, creating a comforting experience that’s both nutritious and satisfying. With its rich flavors from spices and a medley of textures, this soup is not only simple to prepare but also customizable to suit your taste preferences. Whether you’re seeking comfort on a chilly day or looking to impress guests at dinner, this easy recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 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 and halved
• 1 orange bell pepper, thinly sliced and halved
• 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced and halved
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 2 teaspoons chicken bouillon powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp pepper
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 3/4 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked (basmati recommended)
• 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
• 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

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Instructions

1. In a large Dutch oven or soup pot, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken thighs and onions; sauté until browned.
2. Stir in sliced bell peppers and minced garlic along with flour and spices. Cook for two minutes while stirring.
3. Add uncooked rice, black beans, green chilies, crushed tomatoes, and three cans of chicken broth. Mix cornstarch with the remaining broth before adding it to the mixture. Bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 8-12 minutes until the rice is cooked through.
5. Remove from heat and stir in freshly grated Pepper Jack cheese until melted. Adjust consistency with additional broth if desired.
6. Serve garnished with tortilla chips or strips and your choice of toppings.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 350g)
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 790mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 47g
• Fiber: 10g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: Feel free to customize the soup by adding different vegetables such as zucchini or corn. For added nutrition and flavor depth, consider cooking rice separately and adding it just before serving.