This Ranch Chicken and Rice Soup combines shredded chicken, aromatic rice, ranch seasoning, and a medley of vegetables, all simmered together in a rich, flavorful broth. It’s a cozy, creamy dish that’s perfect for chilly days or whenever you need a comforting meal. With the addition of ranch seasoning and optional bacon bits, this soup becomes a hearty, savory favorite!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
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3 cups cooked and shredded chicken
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6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
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2 carrots, peeled and finely diced
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2 celery ribs, finely diced
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1 onion, finely chopped
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½ teaspoon garlic powder
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1 packet (1 oz) dry ranch seasoning mix
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1 can (10.75 oz) condensed cheddar cheese or cream of chicken soup
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⅔ cup uncooked white rice
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1 ½ teaspoons Italian seasoning
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½ teaspoon paprika
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Optional: real bacon bits for garnish
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2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
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Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste
Directions
Sauté the Vegetables:
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In a large stock pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
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Add the chopped onion, diced carrots, and diced celery. Sauté for 8-10 minutes until the vegetables soften.
Season and Add Garlic:
3. Stir in the salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, ranch seasoning, and paprika. Mix well.
4. Add the garlic powder and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to ensure the garlic doesn’t burn.
Add Broth and Soup:
5. Pour the chicken broth and condensed soup into the pot. Stir to combine and integrate the flavors.
Cook the Soup:
6. Add the shredded chicken and uncooked rice to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat.
7. Cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked.
Finish and Serve:
8. If using, stir in bacon bits and taste to adjust seasoning.
9. Serve hot, garnished with additional bacon bits if desired.
Nutrients
(Nutritional estimates per serving; values may vary)
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Calories: ~280
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Fat: ~12g
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Saturated Fat: ~4g
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Carbohydrates: ~28g
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Sugars: ~4g
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Protein: ~18g
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Fiber: ~2g
The Perfect Blend of Comforting Flavors
The beauty of Ranch Chicken and Rice Soup lies in its harmonious blend of flavors. The creamy broth, seasoned with ranch seasoning, Italian herbs, and paprika, infuses the entire dish with a savory depth that complements the tender chicken and soft rice. The subtle sweetness of carrots and the mild flavor of celery add a delicate balance to the hearty base, while the optional bacon bits provide an extra layer of smokiness and crunch. This soup is the epitome of comfort in a bowl, with every spoonful offering a satisfying blend of textures and flavors.
The Creamy Base: A Rich, Flavorful Broth
The base of Ranch Chicken and Rice Soup is what makes it so special. The combination of low-sodium chicken broth and condensed cheddar cheese or cream of chicken soup creates a rich, creamy broth that’s the perfect vehicle for the rice and vegetables. The addition of ranch seasoning elevates the flavor profile, adding a tangy, herby kick that makes this soup stand out from traditional chicken and rice soups. This creamy base provides a velvety texture that coats each bite, ensuring every spoonful is both comforting and indulgent.
The Vegetables: Adding Color and Freshness
A crucial part of the soup is the vegetables, which add both flavor and texture. The carrots and celery are sautéed until tender, allowing them to release their natural sweetness and depth of flavor. This step also helps to infuse the oil with the essence of the vegetables, enhancing the overall taste of the soup. The onion, when sautéed along with the carrots and celery, adds an aromatic element that complements the other ingredients perfectly. Together, these vegetables provide a colorful and nutritious foundation for the soup, ensuring that each bite is both delicious and wholesome.
The Rice: A Perfect Grain to Absorb the Broth
Uncooked white rice is added to the soup, where it cooks directly in the flavorful broth, soaking up all the delicious seasonings. Rice is a great addition to soups because it helps to thicken the broth while also adding a satisfying texture. As the rice cooks, it becomes tender and slightly creamy, further enhancing the soup’s overall richness. The rice also provides a hearty and filling component, making the soup not only delicious but also filling enough to serve as a complete meal.
Adding Protein: Shredded Chicken for Heartiness
The shredded chicken is the star protein in this soup, providing both texture and substance. It’s easy to incorporate pre-cooked chicken, making this dish a time-saver for busy nights. The chicken is tender and flavorful, absorbing the seasoning from the broth and complementing the other ingredients. Its mild taste allows the ranch seasoning and other spices to shine, ensuring that the chicken doesn’t overpower the soup but instead blends perfectly with the other elements.
Optional Bacon Bits: A Crunchy, Smoky Touch
While the soup is delicious on its own, adding bacon bits as a garnish takes it to another level. The crispy, salty bacon bits add a delightful crunch that contrasts with the creamy soup, creating a more dynamic eating experience. The smokiness from the bacon enhances the savory profile of the dish, adding a layer of depth that will have your taste buds dancing. Whether you opt for real bacon bits or a bacon alternative, this simple addition makes the soup even more irresistible.
Quick and Easy to Make
Ranch Chicken and Rice Soup is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. With a few basic ingredients and simple cooking steps, you can have a hearty, flavorful soup ready in no time. The sautéing of the vegetables takes just a few minutes, and once the broth is added, the soup simmers and cooks on its own, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. With just 15-20 minutes of simmering, the rice cooks perfectly in the broth, creating a satisfying texture without the need for constant stirring.
A Versatile Meal for Any Occasion
This soup is incredibly versatile, making it suitable for a wide range of occasions. Whether you’re looking for a comforting weeknight dinner, a filling lunch, or a hearty dish to serve at a gathering, Ranch Chicken and Rice Soup is sure to please everyone. It’s the perfect dish to enjoy on a cold day or to bring to a potluck, where it’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. You can also customize the soup to your liking by adding extra vegetables or seasoning to suit your tastes.
Conclusion: A Comforting Soup for All Seasons
Ranch Chicken and Rice Soup is the ultimate comfort food, combining creamy textures, savory flavors, and hearty ingredients in one delicious bowl. The tender shredded chicken, rice, vegetables, and rich broth make for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether enjoyed on a cold winter’s night or as a cozy dinner any time of year, this soup will leave you feeling nourished and content. Its simple ingredients and easy preparation make it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights, while its comforting flavors make it a favorite for everyone at the table. Give this Ranch Chicken and Rice Soup a try, and it’s sure to become a staple in your soup rotation!