Ingredients 

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion , diced
• 2 garlic cloves , minced
• 3 medium carrots , sliced
• 2 celery stalks , chopped
• 1 cup uncooked rice (white or brown)
• 6 cups chicken broth (low-sodium preferred)
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 2 bay leaves
• Salt and pepper , to taste
• 2 cups fresh spinach or kale , chopped (optional, for added greens)
• Juice of ½ lemon (optional, for brightness)

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Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes, or until softened and translucent.
3. Stir in the minced garlic , cooking for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.

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Step 2: Add Vegetables and Rice

1. Add the sliced carrots and chopped celery to the pot. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften.
2. Stir in the uncooked rice , coating it with the oil and aromatics. Toast the rice for 1–2 minutes to enhance its nutty flavor.

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Step 3: Simmer the Soup

1. Pour in the chicken broth and add the chicken breasts or thighs , thyme , oregano , and bay leaves . Season with salt and pepper to taste.
2. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 20–25 minutes (or according to the rice package instructions). Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
   • If using brown rice , you may need to simmer for an additional 10–15 minutes.

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Step 4: Shred the Chicken

1. Once the chicken is cooked through and tender, remove it from the pot and place it on a cutting board.
2. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.

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Step 5: Add Greens and Finish

1. If using greens like spinach or kale , stir them into the soup during the last 5 minutes of cooking. This will allow them to wilt and blend into the soup.
2. For a touch of brightness, squeeze in the juice of ½ lemon just before serving. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or herbs if needed.

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Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

1. Remove the bay leaves and ladle the soup into bowls.
2. Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers on the side for a complete cozy meal.