Unleash the magic of simplicity with 5 Ingredient Souper Rice, a quick and easy recipe that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. This hearty dish combines the creamy goodness of chicken soup with the comforting texture of rice, resulting in a satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a delicious and filling dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Let’s dive into the details and learn how to make this delectable Souper Rice!
Ingredients:
- 1 (10.75-ounce) can cream of chicken soup
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth or stock
- 1 1/2 cups uncooked instant rice
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated or from a can)
- Pinch of black pepper
Instructions:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the cream of chicken soup and chicken broth over medium heat. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low.
- Stir in the uncooked instant rice, ensuring that it is evenly distributed in the saucepan.
- Cover the saucepan with a lid and let the rice cook for about 5 minutes, or until it has absorbed the liquid and become tender.
- Once the rice is cooked, remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until the cheese is melted and incorporated into the rice.
- Season the Souper Rice with a pinch of black pepper, to taste. Adjust the seasoning if necessary.
- Serve the Souper Rice hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Add Protein: For a heartier meal, you can add cooked chicken, turkey, or shredded rotisserie chicken to the Souper Rice. Simply stir in the cooked protein when you add the Parmesan cheese.
- Vegetarian Option: Make this dish vegetarian-friendly by using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and omitting the meat. You can also add diced vegetables such as carrots, peas, or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition.
- Customize the Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese to change up the flavor profile of the Souper Rice. Try substituting Parmesan cheese with cheddar, mozzarella, or Swiss cheese for a different taste sensation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use regular rice instead of instant rice? A: Yes, you can use regular rice instead of instant rice, but you may need to adjust the cooking time and liquid ratio accordingly. Keep in mind that regular rice will take longer to cook and may require additional liquid.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A: While Souper Rice is best served fresh, you can prepare the base of the dish (the soup and rice mixture) ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat the mixture on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through, then stir in the Parmesan cheese and black pepper.
Q: Is this recipe suitable for meal prep? A: Yes, Souper Rice is perfect for meal prep! You can prepare a batch of Souper Rice at the beginning of the week and portion it into individual containers for easy grab-and-go lunches or dinners. Simply reheat the portioned servings in the microwave when ready to eat.
Q: Can I freeze leftover Souper Rice? A: Yes, you can freeze leftover Souper Rice for up to 3 months. Transfer the cooled rice to airtight containers or freezer-safe bags, making sure to remove any excess air. Thaw the rice in the refrigerator overnight before reheating it in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
Keto Version: To make a keto-friendly version of Souper Rice, you can substitute the instant rice with cauliflower rice or shirataki rice. Use a low-carb cream of chicken soup or make your own keto-friendly version using heavy cream, chicken broth, and seasonings. Omit the Parmesan cheese or use a keto-friendly cheese alternative.
Low-Carb Version: Follow the same substitutions as the keto version, and be mindful of the carb content in the cream of chicken soup and Parmesan cheese. You can also reduce the amount of rice used or replace it with additional vegetables to lower the overall carb count.
In conclusion, 5 Ingredient Souper Rice is a versatile and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy weeknight dinner or a comforting side dish to accompany your favorite meal, this recipe delivers deliciousness in every bite. With its creamy texture, cheesy goodness, and simple preparation, Souper Rice is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. So gather your ingredients, fire up the stove, and get ready to enjoy the comforting flavors of Souper Rice!