Ginger Chicken and Rice Soup With Zucchini

A simple base of aromatic garlic, ginger, bay leaf, and turmeric flavors this cozy and nourishing chicken soup. Tender chicken, zucchini, and chewy brown rice provide bite and substance, and simmer together at the same pace. The rice will swell and soften in the broth as the soup sits, and you can cook it longer than called for to give this soup more of a stewy or even porridge-like texture, depending on your preference. Add more water or stock to thin the broth as needed if reheating. Serve with a drizzle of chile crisp or a squeeze of lemon and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro.

Recipe by  Yossy Arefi in the New York Times.

Ingredients for Ginger Chicken and Rice Soup With Zucchini

• 1 pound Boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• To Taste Salt and black pepper
• 2 tablespoons Neutral oil (such as canola or vegetable)
• 2 tablespoons Minced ginger (from a 2-inch piece)
• 3 Garlic cloves, minced
• 2 teaspoons Ground turmeric
• ½ cup Brown rice
• 1 Large zucchini, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 Fresh or dried bay leaf
• To taste Chile crisp, lemon wedges or chopped cilantro (or a combination), for serving (optional)

Steps to Preparing Ginger Chicken and Rice Soup With Zucchini

1. Pat the chicken thighs dry and season generously with salt and pepper.

2. Heat a medium Dutch oven or other heavy-bottomed pot over medium. Add the oil, ginger, garlic, and turmeric, and let the mixture sizzle and soften for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly.

3. Add 6 cups of water to the pot, along with the chicken, rice, zucchini, bay leaf, and a big pinch of salt. Bring to a simmer, then turn the heat down to low and cook, stirring occasionally, until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through, about 30 minutes.

4. When ready to serve, remove the chicken and place it on a cutting board. Use two forks to shred the thighs, then return the meat with all of its juices to the pot. Taste and season the soup with salt and pepper.

5. To serve, divide the soup among bowls and top with any combination of chile crisp, lemon and cilantro.