Salsa Verde Chicken and Rice Soup is an explosion of flavors that dances on your taste buds like a mariachi band at a fiesta. Imagine tender chicken swimming in a vibrant green sauce, mingling with fluffy rice and fresh veggies, creating a comforting bowl that warms you from the inside out. satisfying chicken soup recipe This soup is the culinary equivalent of a warm hug, perfect for those chilly evenings when all you want to do is curl up with a cozy blanket and a delicious bowl of goodness.
This delightful dish holds a special place in my heart. I remember the first time I made Salsa Verde Chicken and Rice Soup during a family gathering. The aroma filled the kitchen, drawing everyone in like moths to a flame. My cousin proclaimed it “the best soup ever,” which, let’s be honest, was probably just the chicken talking, but hey, I’ll take it! It’s the ideal meal for gatherings, cozy nights in, or whenever you need comfort food that packs a punch. easy stovetop chili recipe delicious white chicken chili. For more inspiration, check out this Smothered Chicken and Rice recipe.
[info_box title=”Why You’ll Love This Recipe”] This easy-to-make soup combines bold flavors with minimal effort, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Its vibrant colors make it visually appealing and as delicious as it looks. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or spices. Enjoy it alone or pair with crusty bread for an unforgettable meal. [/info_box]
I once served this dish at a potluck and had friends hovering around the pot like seagulls waiting for fries. It was gone in minutes!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use 3-4 breasts depending on how hearty you want your soup.
Salsa Verde: Choose your favorite brand or homemade salsa verde for the best flavor.
Long-Grain White Rice: A must-have for that fluffy texture; cook according to package instructions.
Fresh Cilantro: Adds a burst of freshness and color; chop finely before adding.
Vegetable Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness; feel free to substitute chicken broth if desired.
Onion: Diced onions add sweetness and depth; sauté until translucent for maximum flavor.
Garlic Cloves: Fresh minced garlic provides aromatic goodness; use 2-3 cloves based on preference.
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice brightens up every bite; squeeze some right before serving for zing!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients. Dice your onion and mince your garlic while dreaming about that savory soup you’ll soon enjoy.
Sauté the Aromatics: Heat some oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onions until they turn translucent and smell heavenly—about 5 minutes will do!
Add Garlic & Chicken: Toss in minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Then add chicken breasts, browning them slightly on both sides—just enough to seal those juicy flavors inside.
Pour In the Broth & Salsa Verde: Add vegetable broth and salsa verde to the pot. Bring everything to a gentle boil while daydreaming about how amazing this will taste.
Add Rice & Simmer Away!: Stir in rice and reduce heat to low. Let it simmer for about 20 minutes or until the rice is tender and has absorbed all those fabulous flavors.
Finish with Freshness!: Stir in chopped cilantro and lime juice just before serving—this will elevate your soup from good to “where has this been all my life?”
Now that you’ve created this tantalizing bowl of Salsa Verde Chicken and Rice Soup, don’t forget to top each serving with extra cilantro or even some avocado slices if you’re feeling fancy! Enjoy every spoonful as though it’s an award-winning dish because let’s face it – you deserve this culinary masterpiece! tortellini chicken soup.
[info_box title=”You Must Know”] This delightful Salsa Verde Chicken and Rice Soup is hearty and packed with flavor. It’s perfect for busy days, as you can whip it up quickly. The zesty salsa verde elevates the dish, making each spoonful a burst of deliciousness! [/info_box]
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by sautéing onions and garlic until fragrant, then add chicken and brown it. Next, pour in the salsa verde and simmer everything together while cooking rice separately for a perfect blend of flavors.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out ingredients based on your pantry! Try adding black beans for extra protein, or throw in some corn for sweetness. Spice lovers can always add jalapeños for an extra kick.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, gently warm it on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally to maintain that delightful texture.
[info_box title=”Chef’s Helpful Tips”] This soup shines with freshly cooked rice; avoid soggy rice by preparing it separately. Use homemade salsa verde for a fresh taste, or store-bought for convenience. Always taste before serving; adjust seasonings to make sure it’s just right! [/info_box]
Sometimes I wonder if my friends come over just to enjoy my Salsa Verde Chicken and Rice Soup! Their smiles after each spoonful are worth every minute spent cooking, reminding me why I love sharing good food. For more inspiration, check out this Grilled Salsa Verde Chicken recipe.
FAQ
Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover chicken works wonderfully and saves time during prep.
What type of rice is best for this soup?
Long-grain white rice or jasmine rice gives the best texture and flavor balance.
Can I freeze Salsa Verde Chicken and Rice Soup?
Yes, but store rice separately in an airtight container to prevent mushiness when thawed.
Salsa Verde Chicken and Rice Soup
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Salsa Verde Chicken and Rice Soup is a flavorful, comforting dish that brings warmth to chilly evenings. This one-pot wonder features tender chicken simmered in zesty salsa verde, combined with fluffy rice and vibrant vegetables. Perfect for gatherings or cozy nights, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s quick to make yet packed with deliciousness.
Ingredients
- 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 2 cups salsa verde
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- Juice of 1 lime
Instructions
- Prepare your ingredients: Dice the onion and mince the garlic.
- In a large pot over medium heat, sauté the diced onions in olive oil until translucent (about 5 minutes). Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Add chicken breasts to the pot and lightly brown on both sides.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and salsa verde; bring to a gentle boil.
- Stir in the rice, reduce heat to low, and simmer for about 20 minutes or until rice is tender.
- Stir in chopped cilantro and lime juice just before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: One-pot cooking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx. 400g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
