Preparing a delicious chicken and rice soup, known as “Chicas,” is a comforting and flavorful experience. This classic recipe is ideal for cold days or when you need a nutritious and satisfying dish. Here is a step-by-step guide to prepare this traditional soup that is sure to be a hit on your table.
Ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken (about 1.5 kg), cut into pieces
- 1 cup of rice
- 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 sticks of celery, chopped
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red pepper, cut into pieces
- 1 cup fresh or frozen peas
- 1 cup fresh or frozen corn
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 sprig of thyme
- 1 sprig of parsley
- 2 liters of chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
- Preparing the Chicken: Start by washing the chicken under cold water and drying it with kitchen paper. Next, cut the chicken into smaller pieces to make cooking easier. Season the pieces with salt and pepper to taste.
- Sauté: In a large pot over medium heat, heat a little olive oil. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent. Add the garlic and cook for a minute, making sure not to burn it.
- Cooking the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the pot and brown each side for about 5 minutes. This will seal in the juices and add flavor to the soup. Add the carrots, celery, and red pepper, and continue cooking for another 5 minutes.
- Add Aromatic Herbs: Add the bay leaves, thyme and parsley to the pot. These herbs will add depth of flavor to the soup. Stir to distribute the flavors evenly.
- Add Chicken Broth: Pour the chicken broth into the pot, making sure to completely cover the ingredients. Bring the mixture to a boil and then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for about 30 minutes so the chicken cooks completely and the flavors blend.
- Add Rice: Wash the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Add the rice to the pot and simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the flavors of the soup.
- Add Peas and Corn: Add the peas and corn to the soup. Cook for another 10 minutes or until the vegetables are tender but still retain their freshness and color.
- Check Seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as necessary. You can add more fresh herbs if you wish.
- Remove the Aromatic Herbs: Before serving, remove the bay leaves, thyme and parsley sprig. These herbs served their purpose of imparting flavor to the soup during cooking.
- Serve Hot: Serve the soup hot in individual bowls. Serve with pieces of chicken, vegetables and rice in each serving.
- Presentation Options: You can sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top of each bowl just before serving for an extra touch of freshness.
- Accompaniments (optional): Accompany the soup with slices of fresh or toasted bread. The bread can be used to dip in the delicious broth of the soup.
- Enjoy your Food: Now, enjoy your Chicken Soup with Rice Girls Style! This classic and comforting recipe is sure to warm your heart and stomach.
Chicken soup with rice is a versatile and nutritious dish that can be enjoyed any time of the year. Whether to combat the cold or simply to delight your palate, this recipe offers a perfect combination of flavors and textures. Enjoy!