Easy & Cozy Butternut Squash, Chickpea, and Rice Soup

When the weather turns cooler, there’s nothing more comforting than a warm bowl of soup simmering on the stove. This Easy & Cozy Butternut Squash, Chickpea, and Rice Soup is the perfect comfort food for chilly nights. With tender chunks of butternut squash, hearty chickpeas, and a fragrant broth seasoned with allspice, garlic, and fresh thyme, every spoonful is a soothing embrace. Topped with creamy feta cheese, this healthy fall soup is more than just a meal—it’s a hug in a bowl. Whether you’re searching for a nourishing weeknight dinner, a vegan-friendly soup, or a dish to impress guests, this easy vegetable soup hits all the marks: flavorful, simple to prepare, and utterly satisfying.

Last Updated February 20th, 2025.

Why You’ll Love this Chickpea Soup Recipe:

• Hearty and Nourishing: This easy vegetable soup is packed with wholesome ingredients like chickpeas, butternut squash, and rice, making it both filling and comforting. Perfect for those chilly fall evenings when you crave something hearty yet healthy.
• Full of Flavor: The combination of allspice, thyme, and garlic creates a warm and fragrant broth that’s anything but ordinary. This fall soup recipe is brimming with cozy, aromatic flavors that make every spoonful a delightful experience.
• Simple and Versatile: With just a few basic steps, this soup comes together effortlessly. It’s also highly adaptable—swap the rice for quinoa to make a gluten-free soup, or leave off the feta for a dairy-free option. This makes it the perfect vegan-friendly soup for anyone with dietary restrictions.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or cozying up on a cold night, this hearty chickpea soup is always a great choice. It’s not only perfect for a nourishing weeknight dinner, but it’s also a showstopper for gatherings.

Ingredient Notes:

• Butternut Squash:
  • A sweet and slightly nutty squash that adds heartiness and vibrant color to this fall soup. It softens beautifully in the broth, creating a sweet, delicate texture that enhances the richness of the soup.
• Chickpeas:
  • These protein-rich chickpeas are a great source of fiber, adding substance and making the soup more filling. Their mild flavor balances the savory broth, making this easy vegetable soup a satisfying meal.
• Rice:
  • I used white rice for this soup, but brown rice or quinoa would work just as well. The rice soaks up the broth, making each spoonful comforting and flavorful. You can also swap in quinoa for a different texture.
• Red Onion:
  • Offers a mild, sweet flavor that blends seamlessly with the other ingredients. It adds a subtle depth to the broth, complementing the hearty chickpea soup’s rich flavors.
• Allspice:
  • A warm spice with hints of cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg, allspice brings a cozy, fragrant aroma to the soup, elevating the savory notes of the squash and making this nourishing fall soup even more delightful.
• Fresh Thyme:
  • This herb provides earthy, slightly lemony notes that brighten the soup and complement the richness of the other ingredients. It’s a key flavor in this cozy soup recipe.
• Sliced Garlic:
  • Adds a savory depth and slight sweetness when sautéed, infusing the broth with a rich, aromatic flavor that brings all the ingredients together in perfect harmony.
• Feta Cheese:
  • Crumbled feta adds a tangy, creamy finish that contrasts beautifully with the warmth of the soup and balances the sweetness of the butternut squash. For a dairy-free soup, simply omit or use a vegan alternative.
• Butter:
  • Used to sauté the onion and garlic, butter adds richness and depth to the soup, enhancing the flavors of the other ingredients. If you’re looking for a dairy-free soup, you can easily swap it out for olive oil.
• White Wine:
  • Adds a touch of acidity and complexity to the broth, balancing the sweetness of the squash and enhancing the overall flavor profile of this cozy, nourishing soup.
• Chicken Broth:
  • The savory base of the soup, chicken broth ties all the ingredients together. For a vegetarian or vegan-friendly soup, you can substitute vegetable broth instead.

Dietary Restriction & Allergy-Friendly Substitutions:

• To make Gluten-Free:
  • Ensure your rice is labeled gluten-free or swap rice for quinoa. Quinoa is naturally gluten-free and adds a lovely texture to the soup. Also, be sure to use gluten-free broth!
• To make Dairy-Free:
  • Omit the feta cheese or substitute it with a dairy-free cheese like cashew-based feta or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor ( I really like Violife’s Just like Feta). You can also swap butter for olive oil or another dairy-free butter of your choice.
• To make Vegetarian or Vegan:
  • Replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth and skip the feta or use a plant-based alternative. This makes the soup both vegan-friendly and vegetarian-friendly, perfect for anyone with dietary preferences or restrictions.
• To make Nut-free:
  • This soup is naturally nut-free, but if you choose a dairy-free cheese that contains nuts, just make sure to select one that is specifically labeled as nut-free.

Additional Substitutions & Variations:

• For a Protein Boost: If you’re looking for a little extra protein, try adding shredded rotisserie chicken, tofu, or tempeh for a high-protein soup option. Chicken sausage or turkey sausage can also be added for extra flavor and heartiness.
• For a Lower-Carb Option: Instead of using rice, you can substitute it with cauliflower rice for a low-carb, keto-friendly soup that still provides a satisfying texture.
• For Extra Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach, kale, or carrots to increase the veggie content and make the soup even more nourishing.
• For a Spicy Kick: If you like a bit of heat, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or a few slices of fresh chili to the soup for a spicy soup variation.
• For a Creamy Texture: Blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender or regular blender to make it extra creamy and thick. You can also add a splash of coconut milk or heavy cream for a richer, creamier finish.

Expert Tips & Recipe Notes:

• For the Best Texture:
  • Be sure not to overcook the butternut squash. It should be tender but still hold its shape—this will ensure a pleasant, hearty texture in every bite. If you prefer a smoother soup, you can puree part of the soup with an immersion blender for a creamier consistency.
• 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 thickens too much. For a firmer texture, try using brown rice. For a low-carb or keto-friendly soup, swap rice for cauliflower rice to maintain a similar texture while reducing carbs.
• Storage:
  • This soup keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers. It also freezes beautifully—just let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container for freezing soup. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave for a quick and satisfying meal.
• Spice level:
  • Allspice is mild, but if you prefer a bit of heat, feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or fresh chili to taste. This will give your soup a spicy kick without overpowering the other flavors.
• Customizations:
  • Feel free to swap the chickpeas for any other beans you prefer, such as white beans or kidney beans. You can also add greens like spinach or kale for an extra nutrient boost. For a protein-packed version, toss in some shredded rotisserie chicken or tofu.

Chickpea & Rice Soup FAQ’s:

• Can I make this soup vegan or vegetarian?
  • Yes! To make this Chickpea & Rice Soup vegan or vegetarian, simply swap out the butter for olive oil or a vegan butter substitute, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The soup is already plant-based with chickpeas, butternut squash, and rice, so these swaps will make it fully vegan-friendly!
• Can I use a different type of squash?
  • While butternut squash gives this soup its signature sweet, nutty flavor, you can absolutely swap it for other types of squash like acorn squash, kabocha squash, pumpkin, or even zucchini. Just keep in mind that different squashes might slightly alter the texture and flavor, but they’ll still bring a cozy feel to the soup.
• How do I make this soup spicier?
  • If you like a little heat, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or fresh chili to the broth. These ingredients will add some spicy heat while maintaining the warmth of the flavors in the soup. Adjust the level to your personal preference!
• Can I make this soup ahead of time?
  • Yes! This soup actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to develop. Simply store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also freeze the soup for longer storage. When you’re ready to eat, reheat on the stove or microwave for a comforting meal in minutes.
• Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
  • Absolutely! To make this soup in a slow cooker, follow the same basic steps but sauté the onion, garlic, and butternut squash in a pan first for extra flavor. Then, add everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours. Add the rice in the last 30 minutes of cooking to prevent it from getting too soft.
• Is this soup gluten-free?
  • Yes, this Chickpea & Rice Soup is naturally gluten-free, but it’s important to check the label on your broth to ensure it doesn’t contain gluten (some store-bought broths do). Also, make sure to use gluten-free rice or quinoa if you prefer a grain swap.
• How can I make this soup creamier?
  • To make the soup creamier, you can add a splash of coconut milk, heavy cream, or a bit of cashew cream for a plant-based option. You could also blend a portion of the chickpea soup using an immersion blender, and mix it back in for a smooth, velvety texture.
• What should I serve with this soup?
  • This soup is hearty and filling on its own, but you can pair it with some crusty bread, garlic bread, or a side salad to complete the meal. If you’re looking for a lighter side, a green salad with a tangy vinaigrette would be the perfect contrast.

10 Cozy, Brothy Soup Recipes You Will Also Love:

• Quick and Easy Beef, Vegetable & Noodle Soup
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• Easy Wonton Soup
• Minestrone Soup
• Pierogi, Kielbasa, & Cabbage Soup
• Creamy Parmesan, Mushroom, & Wild Rice Soup
• Easy Chicken & Rice Soup with Pesto and Corn
• Garlic & Bacon Brothy White Bean Soup
• Italian Wedding Soup
• One-Pot Pesto Kielbasa Soup with Kale and Rice

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Easy & Cozy Butternut Squash, Chickpea, and Rice Soup

This hearty and comforting Chickpea & Rice Soup is packed with butternut squash, chickpeas, and warm spices for a cozy, nourishing meal. The fragrant broth, infused with garlic, allspice, and thyme, creates a depth of flavor that’s both unique and satisfying. This one-pot soup is easy to make, naturally gluten-free, and can be customized with different grains or added greens. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or craving a warm bowl on a chilly evening, this soup is a perfect go-to recipe! Ready in under an hour and great for leftovers!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 35 minutes mins

Total Time 50 minutes mins

Course Soup

Servings 4

Calories 271 kcal

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x

• 1 tbsp butter
• 1 cup sliced red onion
• 2 cups cubed butternut squash
• 2 tbsp sliced garlic
• 1 can chickpeas drained
• 1/4 cup white wine
• 3-4 cups broth chicken or vegetable
• 3-4 sprigs fresh thyme
• 1/2 cup white rice
• pinch ground all-spice or nutmeg & cinnamon
• salt & pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup feta cheese as garnish

Instructions

 

Sauté the base:

• In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the cubed butternut squash and sliced red onion, along with a light sprinkle of salt and pepper.
• Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions are softened and translucent, about 6-8 minutes.

Add garlic and chickpeas:

• Stir in the sliced garlic and chickpeas, and cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the garlic to become fragrant and the chickpeas to warm through.

Deglaze with white wine:

• Pour in the white wine to deglaze the pot, scraping up any bits stuck to the bottom. Let it simmer for 1 minute to reduce slightly.

Simmer with broth and thyme:

• Add the broth and fresh thyme sprigs. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
• Let it simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the butternut squash starts to soften but is still somewhat firm.

Cook the rice:

• Add the rice to the pot, stirring it into the broth.
• Cover the pot and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and tender. Check the consistency, adding more broth if needed to prevent the soup from thickening too much.

Finish the soup:

• Remove the thyme sprigs from the soup.
• Stir in a pinch of allspice and taste, adjusting the seasoning with more salt and pepper as needed.

Plate and serve:

• Ladle the soup into bowls, then top with crumbled feta cheese and a few cracks of fresh pepper for added flavor.

Notes

• 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.
• 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 thickens too much. For a firmer texture, try using brown rice. For a low-carb or keto-friendly soup, swap rice for cauliflower rice to maintain a similar texture while reducing carbs.
• Storage:
  • This soup keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers. It also freezes beautifully—just let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container for freezing soup. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave for a quick and satisfying meal.
• Nutritional Information is an estimate only and will vary according to specific ingredients and amounts used.

Nutrition

Calories: 271kcalCarbohydrates: 31.2gProtein: 11.1gFat: 8.9gSaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 24.5mgFiber: 8.7gSugar: 4.9g

Keyword chickpea soup

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