This warm and cozy chicken and rice soup is packed with fresh green garlic and zesty ginger. It’s like a big hug in a bowl, perfect for chilly days!
Making this soup is super simple—just toss everything in a pot and let it simmer. I love how the ginger gives it a little kick. It’s comfort food at its best!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Vegetable Oil: This oil helps to sauté your onions and garlic. You can use olive oil or coconut oil if that’s what you have on hand. Both add a different flavor profile, so choose what you prefer!
Onion: A medium onion is perfect for this soup. If you’re short on onions, leeks or shallots can work well too, giving a similar base flavor.
Garlic and Ginger: Fresh garlic and ginger are key to the soup’s aroma. If you don’t have fresh, you can use garlic powder (1/8 tsp for each clove) and ginger powder (1/4 tsp for every tablespoon), but the fresh versions really do make it shine!
Chicken Broth: Homemade chicken broth is fantastic, but store-bought works well if you’re in a hurry. You can use vegetable broth for a lighter soup or if you’re looking for a vegetarian version.
Soy Sauce/Fish Sauce: Both add depth to your soup. If you want to avoid soy, you could use tamari (gluten-free) or coconut aminos for a different flavor without gluten.
Rice: White rice is standard, but you can substitute with brown rice, jasmine, or even quinoa for a healthy twist!
How Do I Sauté Garlic and Ginger Without Burning Them?
Sautéing garlic and ginger can be tricky since they burn quickly. Here’s how to get it right:
- First, heat the oil over medium heat. If it’s too hot, it can burn the garlic and ginger.
- Add onion and allow it to become translucent first – about 3-4 minutes.
- Then, add the minced garlic and ginger. Stir constantly for 1-2 minutes to ensure they don’t stick to the bottom or burn. You want them fragrant, not brown.
Taking your time and watching the heat level will lead to perfectly sautéed garlic and ginger, enhancing your soup’s deliciousness!
How to Make Green Garlic and Ginger Chicken and Rice Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken breast
- 1 cup cooked white rice
Fresh Additions:
- 1/2 cup green onions, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves (plus extra for garnish)
Seasonings:
- 1-2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1-2 teaspoons soy sauce or fish sauce (optional for depth)
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This comforting soup will take about 15 minutes to prepare and another 10 minutes for simmering, so you’ll have a delicious meal on the table in about 25 minutes! Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Onion:
Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is warm, add the finely chopped onion. Sauté the onion until it becomes translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes. This step builds a lovely base flavor for your soup.
2. Add Garlic and Ginger:
Next, add the minced garlic and ginger to the pot. Stir them in and cook for another 1-2 minutes, just until they become fragrant. Be careful not to let them burn!
3. Pour in the Broth:
Now, it’s time to add the chicken broth. Pour it into the pot and bring the mixture to a boil. This will get everything cooking nicely.
4. Add Chicken and Rice:
Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer. Add the cooked shredded chicken breast and the cooked rice to the pot. Stir gently to mix everything well.
5. Incorporate Fresh Ingredients:
Next, stir in the chopped green onions and most of the fresh cilantro (save a little for garnishing later!). This adds a pop of color and flavor to the soup.
6. Season Your Soup:
To season the soup, add the lime juice, and if you want that extra depth, include the soy sauce or fish sauce. Sprinkle in the crushed red pepper flakes and season with salt and pepper to taste. Feel free to adjust these to suit your preference!
7. Let It Simmer:
Allow the soup to simmer gently for about 10 minutes. This will help all those lovely flavors meld together.
8. Serve and Garnish:
Your soup is ready! Serve it hot in bowls, garnishing with the extra chopped green onions, fresh cilantro leaves, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if desired. Enjoy your delicious Green Garlic and Ginger Chicken and Rice Soup!
Can I Use Leftover Rotisserie Chicken in This Soup?
Absolutely! Using leftover rotisserie chicken is a great way to save time. Just shred the chicken and add it directly to the soup as instructed. It will warm up nicely in the broth!
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Yes! To make it vegetarian, simply substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the chicken. You could add more vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or even tofu for protein.
How Do I Store Leftover Soup?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it for up to 3 months. Just reheat on the stove or in the microwave when you’re ready to enjoy it again!
Is It Possible to Make This Soup Spicier?
Definitely! If you love heat, you can add more crushed red pepper flakes or even a dash of sriracha just before serving. Adjust to your taste and enjoy the extra kick!
