Basil Rice Soup Recipe

This vibrant Basil Rice Soup bursts with fresh chicken flavor in just 30 minutes! Easy to make and endlessly customizable, this recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a light and satisfying lunch. Top with grated Parmesan cheese for an extra touch of deliciousness. Servings vary depending on portion size.

Prep Time 10 mins
Cook Time 45 mins
Calories 260.1 kcal
Protein 16g
Rating 4.0 (1 Reviews)
Basil Rice Soup

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for Basil Rice Soup

  • Olive Oil
  • 2 cloves minced garlic
  • 2 stalks chopped celery
  • 1/2 cup chopped onion
  • 1/2 cup chopped carrot
  • Fresh Basil
  • 1 cup Arborio rice
  • 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
  • 6 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
  • Water
  • Salt And Pepper

How to Make Basil Rice Soup

  1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add 2 cloves minced garlic, 2 stalks chopped celery, 1/2 cup chopped onion, and 1/2 cup chopped carrot. Sauté for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened.
  2. Add 1 cup packed fresh basil leaves and cook for 1 minute more, stirring constantly.
  3. Stir in 1 cup Arborio rice and 1 (28-ounce) can of crushed tomatoes. Cook uncovered for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice is slightly toasted.
  4. Pour in 6 cups of chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option), 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Bring to a boil.
  5. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the soup has thickened slightly. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  6. Before serving, taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and extra basil leaves (optional).

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Elevate your dish with simple flavor boosters! A final flourish of freshly chopped herbs can add incredible brightness, while a squeeze of lemon or lime juice right before serving can awaken all the flavors. Don't underestimate a sprinkle of quality finishing salt or a drizzle of good olive oil to make your creation shine.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

33 g

Sugar

16g

Fat

7g

Carbs

12g