Indulge in the cozy warmth and vibrant flavors of Slow Cooker Lemon Chicken & Rice Soup, a delightful twist on the traditional chicken soup. Bursting with the zesty brightness of lemon and packed with wholesome ingredients like tender chicken, hearty rice, and fresh vegetables, this soup is a comforting and nourishing meal that’s perfect for any day of the week. Join us as we explore the ingredients, preparation, and variations of this delicious soup, and discover how easy it is to make this crowd-pleasing dish in your slow cooker. Let’s dive in!
Introduction
There’s nothing quite as comforting as a bowl of homemade chicken soup, and this Slow Cooker Lemon Chicken & Rice Soup takes that classic comfort food to a whole new level. With its bright, citrusy flavor and hearty ingredients, this soup is sure to warm you up from the inside out, whether you’re battling a cold or simply craving a cozy meal on a chilly day. Plus, the convenience of the slow cooker makes this recipe a breeze to prepare – simply toss everything in, set it, and forget it until dinnertime rolls around.
Ingredients
- 1.5 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup minute rice
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 onion, diced
- 4 carrots, sliced
- 4 celery stalks, sliced
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 tablespoons butter, salted and cut into chunks
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Rinse the chicken breasts under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and set aside.
- Dice the onion, slice the carrots and celery, mince the garlic, and zest and juice the lemon.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker
- In the slow cooker, combine the diced onion, sliced carrots, sliced celery, minced garlic, lemon zest, dried thyme, and chicken broth.
- Add the bite-sized chicken pieces and stir to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 3: Cook the Soup
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
- During the last 30 minutes of cooking, stir in the minute rice and chunks of butter. Cover and continue cooking until the rice is tender.
Step 4: Serve and Garnish
- Once the soup is ready, ladle it into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.
- Serve hot and enjoy the comforting flavors of this Slow Cooker Lemon Chicken & Rice Soup!
Cook Notes and Variations
- Use Different Rice: Feel free to swap out the minute rice for other varieties such as long grain white rice, jasmine rice, or brown rice. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Add More Veggies: Customize the soup by adding your favorite vegetables, such as diced potatoes, chopped spinach, or frozen peas.
- Make It Creamy: For a creamier texture, stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts? A: Yes, you can substitute boneless, skinless chicken thighs for the chicken breasts if preferred. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers? A: Absolutely! Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to airtight containers or freezer bags and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Q: Can I make this soup on the stovetop instead of using a slow cooker? A: Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe for stovetop cooking. Simply follow the same instructions, but instead of using a slow cooker, simmer the soup in a large pot over medium heat until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
Keto Version
For a keto-friendly version of this Slow Cooker Lemon Chicken & Rice Soup, you can omit the rice entirely or substitute it with cauliflower rice. Additionally, use full-fat chicken broth and adjust the seasoning to taste.
In conclusion, Slow Cooker Lemon Chicken & Rice Soup is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner or a nourishing meal to warm you up on a chilly day, this soup is sure to hit the spot. With its vibrant lemony flavor, tender chicken, and hearty vegetables, it’s a satisfying meal that will leave you feeling cozy and content. So gather your ingredients, fire up your slow cooker, and get ready to enjoy a bowlful of homemade goodness!
