Turkey and Rice Soup

Turkey and Rice Soup is a comforting, hearty, and nourishing soup that’s perfect for chilly days or when you’re craving a light yet satisfying meal. Made with tender chunks of turkey, wholesome vegetables, and fluffy rice in a flavorful broth, this soup is both simple and delicious.

This recipe is ideal for using leftover turkey, making it not only practical but also incredibly tasty. The combination of protein, vegetables, and rice makes it a complete meal in a bowl, perfect for lunch or dinner. The gentle flavors are soothing while the aroma fills your kitchen with warmth and comfort.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love Turkey and Rice Soup because it’s versatile, healthy, and utterly comforting. The broth is rich and flavorful without being heavy, and the tender turkey pieces combined with the soft rice and vegetables create a perfect texture and balance. It’s a recipe that feels like home, offering warmth in every spoonful.

Additionally, it’s an excellent way to make use of leftover turkey, turning it into a satisfying and wholesome meal. The soup is easy to prepare, freezes well, and is loved by both adults and kids alike.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

• Uses leftover turkey or freshly cooked turkey for a hearty meal.
• Combines vegetables, protein, and rice for a nutritious, balanced dish.
• Simple to make with ingredients you likely already have.
• Perfect for meal prep or freezing for future meals.
• Comforting, healthy, and satisfying, making it ideal for all seasons.

Recipe Details

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Servings: 6–8 servings
• Calories: Approximately 220 kcal per serving
• Course: Soup / Main
• Cuisine: American / Comfort Food

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 6 cups turkey or chicken broth
• 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded or diced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)
• Optional garnish: fresh parsley or thyme

Cooking Directions

1. Prepare vegetables: Heat olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté for 5–7 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
2. Add broth and seasonings: Pour in turkey or chicken broth. Add dried thyme, parsley, bay leaf, and season with salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
3. Cook rice: Once the broth is boiling, add the uncooked rice. Reduce heat to a simmer and cook for 15–20 minutes until rice is tender.
4. Add turkey: Stir in shredded turkey and cook for an additional 5 minutes to heat through. Adjust seasoning as needed. Remove bay leaf before serving.
5. Serve: Ladle soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or thyme if desired.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Sauté Vegetables
Heat olive oil or butter in a large pot. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened (5–7 minutes). Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute.

Step 2: Add Broth and Seasonings
Pour in turkey or chicken broth. Add dried thyme, parsley, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.

Step 3: Cook Rice
Add rice to the boiling broth. Reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes until rice is tender.

Step 4: Incorporate Turkey
Add shredded or diced turkey to the soup. Simmer for 5 minutes until heated through.

Step 5: Serve
Remove bay leaf. Serve soup hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

How to Serve

Serve Turkey and Rice Soup:

• With crusty bread or dinner rolls for a complete meal
• Topped with fresh parsley or thyme for added color and flavor
• In meal prep containers for a convenient lunch option

Recipe Tips

• Use leftover turkey: Perfect for making the soup quick and easy.
• Rice alternatives: Brown rice or wild rice can be used but may require longer cooking.
• Vegetable variations: Add peas, corn, or green beans for extra nutrition and color.
• Thicker soup: Reduce the amount of broth slightly or add a slurry of flour/water to thicken.
• Flavor boost: Add a splash of lemon juice or white wine for extra depth.

Variations

1. Brown Rice Turkey Soup: Substitute brown rice for a nuttier flavor and added fiber.
2. Vegetable-Loaded Turkey Soup: Include zucchini, green beans, or bell peppers for more vegetables.
3. Creamy Turkey and Rice Soup: Stir in ½ cup of heavy cream or coconut milk for a creamy version.
4. Spicy Turkey Soup: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne for a mild kick.
5. Herbed Turkey Soup: Use fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or tarragon for a fragrant twist.

Freezing and Storage

Refrigeration:

• Store cooled soup in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezing:

• Freeze soup in individual portions or large containers for up to 3 months.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove over medium heat.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large stockpot or soup pot
• Cutting board and knife
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Conclusion

Turkey and Rice Soup is a hearty, nutritious, and comforting meal that’s perfect for using leftover turkey or creating a wholesome homemade dish. With tender turkey, tender rice, and flavorful vegetables in a rich broth, this soup satisfies both the taste buds and the stomach. Easy to prepare, versatile, and freezer-friendly, it is an essential recipe for any home cook looking for a reliable comfort food option.