Salsa Verde Chicken and Rice Soup is like a warm hug on a chilly day, bursting with vibrant flavors that dance on your taste buds. Imagine tender chicken swimming in a sea of zesty green salsa, hearty rice, and fresh herbs, inviting you to dig in with each spoonful. spicy jalapeno chicken chili warming white chicken chili This soup not only warms the heart but also lifts the spirits, making it perfect for cozy dinners or casual gatherings. For more inspiration, check out this Cozy Meatball Soup recipe.
I first stumbled upon this delightful dish while trying to impress my family during a Sunday dinner. The moment I served it, their eyes lit up like kids on Christmas morning. The laughter, the compliments, and the warm bowls of soup filled our home with joy. Trust me; this is one recipe that will elevate any occasion and leave everyone asking for seconds.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Salsa Verde Chicken and Rice Soup is incredibly easy to prepare and can be made in under an hour
- The bright flavors will have your taste buds singing with joy
- Its visual appeal makes it perfect for impressing guests or family alike
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt based on what you have in your pantry
The reactions from my friends at our last dinner party were priceless; they couldn’t stop raving about how delicious it was!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I use about 3-4 chicken breasts for a hearty serving that everyone loves.
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Fresh Salsa Verde: Choose your favorite brand or homemade version for a fresh, zesty flavor boost.
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White Rice: Long-grain white rice works best here; it absorbs the flavors beautifully.
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Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth for better control over the saltiness of the soup.
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Onion: A medium onion adds depth and sweetness; chop it finely to blend nicely into the soup.
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Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic elevates the flavors; don’t skimp on this aromatic addition.
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Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a burst of freshness; feel free to adjust based on personal preference.
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Lime Juice: A squeeze of lime brings everything together with a refreshing tang.
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Spices (Cumin & Chili Powder): These spices add warmth and complexity to the soup’s flavor profile.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prep Your Ingredients: Start by chopping your onion and garlic finely to ensure they blend well into the soup base. Set them aside as you prepare other ingredients.
Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil. Once hot, toss in the chopped onion and garlic until they turn translucent and fragrant.
Add Chicken and Broth: Place your chicken breasts into the pot along with chicken broth. Bring everything to a gentle simmer while stirring occasionally.
Incorporate Salsa Verde & Spices: Stir in your fresh salsa verde along with cumin and chili powder. Allow this mixture to bubble away for about 20 minutes until flavors meld beautifully.
Add Rice & Simmer: Toss in white rice into the bubbling pot. Continue simmering until rice is tender and has absorbed some of that delicious broth.
Finish with Freshness: Remove from heat, stir in chopped cilantro and lime juice before serving piping hot in bowls garnished with extra cilantro if desired.
Now you have a delightful bowl of Salsa Verde Chicken and Rice Soup ready to enjoy! Serve it alongside some crusty bread or tortilla chips for an added crunch that complements those bold flavors perfectly. delicious chicken tortilla soup Enjoy every spoonful as you savor this comforting meal!
You Must Know
- This Salsa Verde Chicken and Rice Soup is delightfully zesty and comforting
- The vibrant flavors burst in your mouth, making it a perfect dish for chilly evenings or surprise guests
- Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder that saves time on cleanup while delivering maximum flavor
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve efficiency and perfect results, start by sautéing onions and garlic until fragrant, then add chicken to sear before incorporating broth and rice.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize this soup with beans, corn, or even diced avocado for added texture and flavor. Try different salsas for unique twists!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove over medium heat until warmed through.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use high-quality salsa verde for an authentic taste; it makes all the difference!
- Always taste as you go to adjust spices according to your preference
- Cooking rice separately can prevent it from becoming mushy if you plan to store leftovers
Sharing this recipe with friends became a tradition during potluck dinners, where everyone would ask for seconds—and I never turned them down!
FAQ
Can I use leftover chicken for Salsa Verde Chicken and Rice Soup?
creamy chicken corn chowder. For more inspiration, check out this Creamy Chicken Tortellini Soup recipe.
Absolutely! Shredded rotisserie chicken works perfectly and saves time.
What’s a good side dish for this soup?
Cornbread or tortilla chips complement the soup beautifully with their crunch.
Can I make this soup vegetarian-friendly?
Yes! Substitute chicken with chickpeas and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Salsa Verde Chicken and Rice Soup
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
Description
Savor the warmth of Salsa Verde Chicken and Rice Soup, a comforting dish that combines tender chicken, zesty salsa verde, and hearty rice. This one-pot wonder is perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings. Bursting with vibrant flavors and fresh herbs, each spoonful is a celebration of comfort that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
- 2 cups fresh salsa verde
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
Instructions
- Chop onion and garlic finely; set aside.
- In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté onion and garlic until translucent.
- Add chicken breasts and chicken broth; bring to a simmer while stirring occasionally.
- Stir in salsa verde, cumin, and chili powder; simmer for about 20 minutes.
- Add rice to the pot; continue simmering until rice is tender.
- Remove from heat and stir in chopped cilantro and lime juice before serving hot.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: One-pot
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx. 340g)
- Calories: 345
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 690mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
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