There’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting bowl of chicken rice and kale soup, especially on a chilly day. This hearty soup is packed with tender chicken, earthy kale, and filling rice, making it the perfect balance of nutrition and flavor.
I love how easy it is to whip up, and it’s one of my go-to recipes when I want something wholesome yet satisfying.
Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or looking for a simple dinner to cozy up with, this recipe never disappoints. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in those leafy greens!
How To Make Chicken Rice And Kale Soup?
Recipe Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Course: soup
Cuisine: Â American
Yield: 4 people.
Equipment Needed
- Large soup pot
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon for stirring
- Ladle for serving
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup of long-grain white rice
- 4 cups of kale, chopped
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 8 cups of chicken broth (preferably homemade)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare The Chicken
I like to start by cutting the chicken into bite-sized cubes. Season them with salt and pepper to ensure every bite is flavorful.
Step 2: Sauté The Aromatics
In a large soup pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once it’s hot, I add the diced onions and minced garlic, stirring frequently until they become soft and translucent. This usually takes about 5 minutes.
Step 3: Cook The Chicken
Add the chicken to the pot, cooking until it’s no longer pink. This takes about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Step 4: Add Rice And Spices
Now, I add the rice to the pot along with thyme, paprika, and any additional salt and pepper. Stir everything together for about 2 minutes to toast the rice and release the aromas of the spices.
Step 5: Pour In The Broth
Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and cover the pot. Let it cook for 20 minutes or until the rice is tender.
Step 6: Stir In Kale
Once the rice is cooked, I add the chopped kale to the pot. Stir it in and cook for an additional 5 minutes until the kale is wilted but still vibrant green.
Step 7: Add Lemon Juice (Optional)
For a bit of freshness, I like to squeeze in some lemon juice right before serving. It brightens up the soup beautifully.
Nutrition Facts Of Chicken Rice And Kale Soup
- Calories: 310
- Protein: 20 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fat: 8 g
- Fiber: 5 g
Serving Suggestions Of Chicken Rice And Kale Soup
Serve With Crusty Bread
I love serving this soup with a slice of warm, crusty bread on the side. The bread soaks up the flavorful broth perfectly.
Garnish With Fresh Herbs
For an extra burst of flavor, I like to garnish the soup with some fresh parsley or dill. It’s a simple touch that makes a big difference.
Chicken Rice And Kale Soup
Tips And Variations Of Chicken Rice And Kale Soup
Use Brown Rice
If you’re looking for a whole-grain option, you can substitute white rice with brown rice. Keep in mind that brown rice will take longer to cook—around 35 minutes.
Add Extra Veggies
This soup is super versatile, so feel free to throw in extra vegetables like carrots or celery for added texture and nutrition.
Make It Creamy
If you prefer a creamier soup, stir in a splash of coconut milk or heavy cream at the end of cooking. This gives the soup a rich, luxurious texture.
Special Note
Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your dietary needs. Whether you’re looking to add more veggies, swap the chicken for tofu, or make it gluten-free by using quinoa, the possibilities are endless.
Why Is Kale Soup Good For You?
Kale soup is good for you because it’s packed with nutrients. Kale is high in vitamins A, C, and K, which support your immune system and bone health. It also has fiber, which helps with digestion.
The antioxidants in kale protect your cells from damage. I love how it adds a healthy boost to any meal while being low in calories. It’s a great way to enjoy something hearty and nourishing.
Conclusion
This Chicken Rice and Kale Soup is a comforting and wholesome dish that’s perfect for any time of year. It’s packed with nutritious ingredients, easy to prepare, and endlessly customizable.
Whether you’re looking for a cozy meal or something to nourish your body, this soup checks all the boxes.
Chicken Rice And Kale Soup
Equipment
- Large soup pot
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon for stirring
- Ladle for serving
Ingredients Â
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup of long-grain white rice
- 4 cups of kale chopped
- 1 large onion diced
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 8 cups of chicken broth preferably homemade
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon optional
InstructionsÂ
Step 1: Prepare The Chicken
- I like to start by cutting the chicken into bite-sized cubes. Season them with salt and pepper to ensure every bite is flavorful.
Step 2: Sauté The Aromatics
- In a large soup pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once it’s hot, I add the diced onions and minced garlic, stirring frequently until they become soft and translucent. This usually takes about 5 minutes.
Step 3: Cook The Chicken
- Add the chicken to the pot, cooking until it’s no longer pink. This takes about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Step 4: Add Rice And Spices
- Now, I add the rice to the pot along with thyme, paprika, and any additional salt and pepper. Stir everything together for about 2 minutes to toast the rice and release the aromas of the spices.
Step 5: Pour In The Broth
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and cover the pot. Let it cook for 20 minutes or until the rice is tender.
Step 6: Stir In Kale
- Once the rice is cooked, I add the chopped kale to the pot. Stir it in and cook for an additional 5 minutes until the kale is wilted but still vibrant green.
Step 7: Add Lemon Juice (Optional)
- For a bit of freshness, I like to squeeze in some lemon juice right before serving. It brightens up the soup beautifully.
Notes
Hello! I am Shikha, I am a soup recipe maker. I have a lot of passion for making soup. With a journey spanning over five years in the culinary industry, I have carved a niche for myself as a distinguished soup maker whose creations are not just meals but experiences that linger on the palate and nourish the soul. My specialization in soup-making is a testament to my creativity and relentless pursuit of perfection. Beyond my skills in the kitchen, I am an avid writer, passionately sharing my knowledge and insights into nutrition through my writing. My approach to soup-making is holistic, emphasizing each ingredient’s taste and health benefits. A well-made soup can be a cornerstone of a healthy diet, providing essential nutrients while pleasing the taste buds.