Salsa Verde Chicken and Rice Soup is the kind of dish that wraps around you like a cozy blanket on a chilly day. Imagine the zesty aroma of tomatillos mingling with tender chicken, all swimming in a savory broth that dances on your taste buds. herb chicken and rice cozy chicken tortilla soup This soup isn’t just food; it’s an experience that says, “Hey, come on in, I’ve got hugs in a bowl!”
Every spoonful tells a story—like the time my cousin decided to impress everyone at Thanksgiving with her cooking skills. Spoiler alert: she didn’t stick to her original plan and brought a massive pot of this soul-warming soup instead. It became the star of the evening, and I realized then that sometimes the best recipes are born out of happy accidents.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Salsa Verde Chicken and Rice Soup is both easy to make and bursting with flavor
- You can customize it based on what you have available in your kitchen
- The vibrant green color invites you to take a bite, promising a delicious experience
- Perfect for weeknight dinners but hearty enough for gatherings or cozy nights in
I once made this soup for friends who were feeling under the weather, and their joyful slurps filled the room with laughter.

Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs: I prefer thighs for their juicy texture, but breasts work too if that’s your jam.
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Salsa Verde: A good store-bought salsa verde saves time; look for one that’s fresh and tangy.
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White Rice: Long-grain rice offers a nice bite; remember to rinse it before using to remove excess starch.
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Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness; homemade adds an extra layer of love.
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Fresh Cilantro: Adds brightness; feel free to adjust based on your cilantro love affair.
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Lime Juice: A splash at the end brightens flavors; fresh limes are best for that zing.
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Onion and Garlic: Sautéed together, they create an aromatic base; don’t skimp on them!
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Avocado (optional): For creaminess on top; because everything’s better with avocado!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare Your Ingredients: Gather all your ingredients. Chop onions and garlic finely while your chicken waits patiently for its moment in glory.
Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot over medium heat, drizzle olive oil and sauté onions until translucent and fragrant—about 5 minutes will do!
Add the Chicken: Toss the chicken into the pot with garlic. flavorful taco dip Sear until lightly browned—those golden bits add flavor as they mingle.
Pour in Broth and Salsa Verde: Add chicken broth and salsa verde. Let it simmer gently so all those vibrant flavors can join the party—about 20 minutes should suffice. flavor-packed Boursin chicken.
Add Rice: Stir in rinsed white rice and cook until tender, usually around 15-20 minutes more depending on rice type. Keep an eye on it!
Finish with Freshness: Remove from heat, stir in fresh cilantro and lime juice for that refreshing kick right before serving! Optionally top each bowl with diced avocado for extra creaminess.
Now you’re ready to enjoy your Salsa Verde Chicken and Rice Soup! Grab your favorite spoon, settle into your comfiest chair, and dive into this delightful dish that’s sure to warm any heart (especially yours).
You Must Know
- This Salsa Verde Chicken and Rice Soup is not just a meal; it’s an experience
- The vibrant flavors burst in your mouth while the creamy texture warms your soul
- Perfect for cozy evenings, it’s a dish that makes you feel like you’re getting a big hug from the inside out
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by sautéing onions and garlic to build flavor, then add chicken to sear it before incorporating rice and broth.

Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap chicken for turkey or add beans for extra protein! Toss in fresh cilantro for a zesty twist.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove to maintain creaminess.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use high-quality salsa verde for maximum flavor; freshness makes all the difference!
- Don’t rush the cooking process; let those flavors meld beautifully together
- Always taste as you go; you’ll know exactly when it’s just right
The first time I made this soup, my friends declared it “life-changing.” It was so good that we almost forgot about the main course!

FAQ
Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?
For more inspiration, check out this Ranch Chicken Recipe recipe.
Yes, leftover chicken works great and saves cooking time while enhancing flavor.
What can I serve alongside Salsa Verde Chicken and Rice Soup?
Consider tortilla chips or a fresh salad; they complement the soup perfectly.
How do I make this soup vegetarian-friendly?
Replace chicken with chickpeas and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Salsa Verde Chicken and Rice Soup
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
Description
Experience the warmth of Salsa Verde Chicken and Rice Soup, a delightful dish that combines tender chicken thighs, zesty tomatillos, and aromatic herbs in a savory broth. Perfect for chilly evenings or gatherings, this comforting soup is customizable to suit your pantry staples. Dive into a bowl of joy that offers not just nourishment but a hug in every spoonful.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 2 cups salsa verde (fresh)
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (rinsed)
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro (chopped)
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 medium onion (finely chopped)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 avocado (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Prepare the ingredients by chopping the onion and garlic.
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté onions until translucent (about 5 minutes).
- Add minced garlic and chicken thighs; sear until lightly browned.
- Pour in chicken broth and salsa verde; simmer for about 20 minutes.
- Stir in rinsed rice; cook until tender (15-20 minutes).
- Remove from heat, mix in cilantro and lime juice. Top with diced avocado if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 90mg





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