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Crockpot Chicken and Rice Soup

This hearty chicken and rice soup is made effortlessly in the slow cooker, combining tender shredded chicken, fluffy rice, and flavorful vegetables in a comforting broth. It develops a rich, silky texture as ingredients meld over hours, finished with a bright squeeze of lemon for freshness. The result is a warm, inviting bowl perfect for cozy weeknights or lazy weekends.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 8 minutes
Total Time 8 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Comfort Food
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 pounds boneless chicken thighs preferably skinless
  • 2 carrots carrots diced
  • 1 medium onion diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 6 cups chicken broth low-sodium preferred
  • 1 cup long-grain rice rinsed until water runs clear
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 bay leaf bay leaf
  • 1/2 lemon lemon for juice
  • fresh parsley or dill chopped, for garnish

Equipment

  • Crockpot (6-7 quart)
  • Sharp Knife
  • Cutting board
  • Wooden spoon

Method
 

  1. Start by preparing your ingredients: dice the carrots and onion into small, even pieces, and mince the garlic. Trim any excess fat from the chicken thighs and cut them into 2-inch chunks.
  2. Layer the chicken pieces in the bottom of your crockpot, then scatter the diced carrots, onions, and minced garlic evenly over the chicken.
  3. Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring it covers the ingredients. Stir in the rinsed rice, dried thyme, and tuck the bay leaf into the mixture.
  4. Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours, or on high for 4 to 5 hours. You'll start smelling the savory aroma as the chicken becomes tender and the rice absorbs the flavors.
  5. Once cooked, open the lid and remove the bay leaf. Use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the pot until it's tender and easily pulls apart.
  6. Squeeze the juice of half a lemon into the soup to brighten the flavors. Stir well and taste, adjusting salt if necessary.
  7. Garnish with chopped parsley or dill for a fresh herbal note. Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot for a comforting, nourishing meal.