My husband calls this ‘Cozy Couch Soup’ because it’s perfect for curling up with a blanket and binge-watching our favorite shows.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5–7 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and mushrooms, cooking another 2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Add the cubed chicken to the pot. Stir and cook until the outside is no longer pink (it doesn’t have to be fully cooked through at this stage).

Step 4: Add Rice and Seasonings

Pour in the rinsed rice, chicken broth, thyme, pepper, and bay leaf. Give everything a good stir, scraping the bottom to lift any flavor bits.

Step 5: Simmer Slowly

Bring the pot to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover partially and let the soup simmer for 45–50 minutes, or until the rice is tender and slightly chewy. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 6: Add Creaminess

Remove the bay leaf. Stir in the heavy cream (or coconut milk) and simmer gently for 5 more minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

Step 7: Serve & Enjoy

Ladle the soup into bowls, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve warm. Grab a soft blanket, curl up on the couch, and enjoy your binge-watch companion.

Tips & Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Swap chicken for white beans or chickpeas and use vegetable broth.
• Gluten-Free Friendly: This soup is naturally gluten-free as long as your broth is certified GF.
• Mushroom Lovers: Use a mix of cremini, shiitake, and oyster mushrooms for extra depth.
• Slow Cooker Method: Combine everything except cream and parsley in the slow cooker. Cook on low 6–7 hours or high 3–4 hours. Stir in cream at the end.
• Instant Pot Method: Sauté aromatics and chicken on “Sauté” mode. Add rice, broth, and seasonings. Cook on high pressure for 30 minutes, then quick release. Stir in cream.

Storage

• Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze without the cream (add cream later when reheating) for up to 2 months.

Why it’s the ultimate Cozy Couch Soup: It’s creamy, filling, and full of comforting textures. The rice gives it body, the mushrooms add umami, and the chicken makes it a full meal. No fancy garnish, no fussy plating—just a warm bowl meant to be eaten while you relax.

Would you like me to also create a lighter version (like a broth-based veggie soup) for when you want something cozy but not too heavy?