Making Homemade Chicken and Rice Soup can be an enjoyable process. Here’s how to create this heartwarming dish step-by-step:

1. Heat the Oil: In a large pot, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat.
2. Sauté Vegetables: Add the diced onion, sliced carrots, and diced celery to the pot. Sauté until the vegetables soften, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
4. Cook the Chicken: Add the chicken breasts or thighs to the pot. Sauté for 3-4 minutes on each side until browned.
5. Pour in Broth: Pour in the chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a simmer.
6. Season the Soup: Add the dried thyme, dried parsley, salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasonings to your preference.
7. Simmer: Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for about 30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
8. Remove Chicken: Carefully take the chicken out of the pot and place it on a cutting board. Shred or chop it into bite-sized pieces.
9. Cook the Rice: Stir in the uncooked rice and let it cook in the soup for 15-20 minutes until fully tender.
10. Return Chicken: Add the shredded chicken back into the pot and stir well to combine.
11. Final Seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed.
12. Garnish and Serve: If desired, garnish with fresh parsley for a touch of color.

These straightforward steps will help you prepare this delicious soup with ease. Each phase is designed to enhance the flavors and create a comforting meal.