There’s something undeniably comforting about a bowl of soup simmering away on the stove, especially as the weather turns cooler. This Cozy Butternut Squash, Chickpea, and Rice Soup is the perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special. With tender chunks of butternut squash, hearty chickpeas, and a fragrant broth infused with allspice, garlic, and fresh thyme, each spoonful wraps you in warmth. Topped with crumbles of creamy feta, this soup isn’t just a meal—it’s a hug in a bowl. Whether you’re looking for a nourishing weeknight dinner or something to serve guests, this recipe checks all the boxes: flavorful, easy to make, and utterly satisfying.

Why You’ll Love this Recipe:

Hearty and Nourishing: Packed with wholesome ingredients like chickpeas, butternut squash, and rice, this soup is both filling and comforting.
Full of Flavor: The combination of allspice, thyme, and garlic creates a warm and fragrant broth that’s anything but ordinary.
Simple and Versatile: With just a few basic steps, this soup comes together effortlessly. Plus, it’s easy to customize—swap the rice for quinoa or leave off the feta for a dairy-free option!
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or cozying up on a cold night, this soup is always a good choice.

Ingredient Notes:

Butternut Squash: A sweet and slightly nutty squash that adds heartiness and vibrant color to the soup. It softens beautifully in the broth, creating a sweet delicate texture.
Chickpeas: These provide protein and fiber, adding substance and making the soup more filling. Their mild flavor balances the richness of the broth.
Rice: I used white rice for this soup, but brown rice or quinoa would work just as well. It soaks up the broth, making each spoonful comforting.
Red Onion: Offers a mild, sweet flavor that blends seamlessly with the other ingredients. It also adds a subtle depth to the broth.
Allspice: A warm spice with hints of cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg. It brings a cozy, fragrant aroma to the soup and enhances the savory notes of the squash.
Fresh Thyme: This herb provides earthy, slightly lemony notes that brighten the soup and complement the richness of the other ingredients.
Sliced Garlic: Adds a savory depth and slight sweetness when sautéed, infusing the broth with a rich, aromatic flavor.
Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta adds a tangy, creamy finish that contrasts beautifully with the warmth of the soup and balances the sweetness of the squash.
Butter: Used to sauté the onion and garlic, butter adds richness and depth to the soup, helping to bring out the flavors of the other ingredients
.White Wine: Adds a touch of acidity and complexity to the broth, balancing the sweetness of the squash and enhancing the overall flavor profile.
Chicken Broth: The base of the soup, providing a savory, rich foundation that ties all the ingredients together. You can use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.

butternut squash, chickpea, and rice soup

Dietary Restriction & Allergy-Friendly Substitutions:

To make it gluten-free:
- Ensure the rice is gluten-free or substitute with quinoa.
- Make sure the broth is labeled gluten-free.
- Double-check the feta cheese, especially pre-crumbled cheese, for any cross-contamination with gluten during processing.
To make it dairy-free:
- Omit the feta cheese, or substitute with a dairy-free cheese (like a vegan feta).
- Use olive oil or vegan butter in place of the butter for sautéing.
To make it vegetarian:
- Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version.
To make it vegan:
- In addition to the dairy-free substitutions (omit feta cheese and use vegan butter), swap chicken broth for vegetable broth.
To make it nut-free:
- This soup is naturally nut-free. Just ensure that any store-bought ingredients, like broth or cheese, are free of nuts or cross-contamination.

cozy soup with rice butternut squash and garlic

Tips & Recipe Notes:

For the best texture: Be sure not to overcook the butternut squash. It should be tender but not falling apart. If you prefer a smoother soup, you can puree part of the soup with an immersion blender for a creamier texture.
Rice choice: If you’re using white rice, it’ll absorb more liquid, so you may want to add a little extra broth or water if it gets too thick. For a firmer texture, try using brown rice.
For extra flavor: If you have the time, let the soup simmer for a bit longer to deepen the flavors. The broth will absorb more from the thyme and garlic the longer it cooks.
Storage: This soup keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days. It also freezes beautifully, so you can make a double batch and freeze some for a quick meal later. Just let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container for freezing.
Spice level: Allspice is mild, but if you’re looking for a little heat, feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to taste.
Customizations: Feel free to swap the chickpeas for any other beans you prefer, like white beans or kidney beans. You can also add greens like spinach or kale for an extra boost of nutrients.

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