Ranch Chicken and Rice Soup

Introduction

Ranch Chicken and Rice Soup is a comforting, creamy, and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, hearty rice, and the zesty taste of ranch seasoning. This one-pot meal is perfect for a cozy dinner at home or as a hearty lunch. The combination of ranch flavors with the richness of chicken broth and the earthiness of vegetables makes this soup a family favorite. It’s an ideal recipe for those chilly days when you crave something warm and satisfying.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, shredded
• 1 cup carrots, diced
• 1 cup celery, diced
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (about 1 ounce)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
• 2 tablespoons cold water (optional, for thickening)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook until they are no longer pink in the center, about 5-7 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the pot, shred it using two forks, and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, add the diced carrots, celery, and onion. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Combine the Ingredients: Pour the chicken broth into the pot with the sautéed vegetables. Stir in the rice, ranch seasoning mix, dried thyme, and dried parsley. Bring the mixture to a boil.
4. Cook the Rice: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked.
5. Add the Chicken and Cream: Stir the shredded chicken back into the pot. Add the heavy cream or half-and-half, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Optional Thickening: If you prefer a thicker soup, mix the cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry. Stir the slurry into the soup and let it simmer for a few more minutes until thickened to your liking.
7. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with additional parsley if desired. Serve hot with crusty bread or a side salad.

Conclusion

Ranch Chicken and Rice Soup is an easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing dish that combines comfort and flavor in every spoonful. The ranch seasoning adds a unique twist to the classic chicken soup, making it both familiar and new. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or preparing a batch to enjoy throughout the week, this soup is sure to warm you up and satisfy your hunger. Enjoy it with family and friends, and make it a staple in your recipe collection!