turkey soup and rice recipe
The Best turkey soup and rice recipe
The best part? It’s perfect for any occasion—whether you’re hosting a potluck or just need a cozy dinner after a long day. The turkey adds lean protein, and the rice brings a gentle, starchy base that holds everything together. Plus, the broth is packed with veggies like carrots and celery, which makes it a sneaky way to get more nutrients into the family. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a hug in a bowl, and honestly, I don’t know how I’d go back to anything else.
Comforting Turkey and Rice Soup
A hearty, flavorful soup packed with tender turkey and fluffy rice, perfect for a cozy meal. Simple ingredients make it easy to prepare in one pot.
🥘Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless turkey breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, diced
- 1 celery stalk, diced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed
- 1 cup water
- ½ tsp salt
👨🍳Directions
-
1
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion, garlic, carrot, and celery. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. -
2
Add the turkey pieces to the pot and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove turkey and set aside. -
3
In the same pot, pour in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes (with juice), thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf. Stir well and bring to a boil. -
4
Return the turkey to the pot. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes. Remove the bay leaf. -
5
While the soup simmers, cook the rice in a separate pot. Bring water and salt to a boil, add the rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until water is absorbed. -
6
Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork and stir it into the turkey soup. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes to combine flavors.
🔧Equipment
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
- For extra flavor, add a splash of red wine while sautéing the vegetables.
- Adjust the salt in the broth and rice to taste. If using fresh herbs, add them in the last 5 minutes of cooking.
Watch Video Of How Comforting Turkey and Rice Soup Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Comforting Turkey and Rice Soup
Can I substitute chicken broth for turkey broth in this recipe?
Yes, you can use chicken broth as a substitute, but the flavor will differ slightly. For the most authentic taste, stick with turkey broth, which has a deeper, richer profile. If you prefer, you can also use vegetable broth for a lighter option, though it won’t carry the same savory depth.
How do I know when the turkey is fully cooked and safe to eat?
The turkey is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the meat, such as the breast or thigh. Use a meat thermometer to check—pulling it out before this temperature can leave the center raw. The edges should also pull away from the joint slightly.
What if I don’t have a rice cooker?
No rice cooker? No problem. Cook the rice in a pot over medium heat on the stovetop. Add the rice to a pot with 1.5 cups of water (or broth), bring to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer, covered. Let it sit undisturbed for 10–12 minutes after boiling. Fluff with a fork before mixing into the soup.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! Soup and rice can be prepped in advance. Assemble the soup base, cover, and refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed to restore moisture. The rice should be cooked fresh upon serving to avoid mushiness.
