This Turkey and Rice Soup is a comforting dish with chunks of tender turkey, hearty rice, and vegetables in a warm broth. It’s perfect for a quick and filling meal on chilly days.
I like to make this soup when I want something easy and friendly for the family. It feels like a hug in a bowl—something I can’t resist!
For extra flavor, I add a splash of lemon or a sprinkle of fresh herbs before serving. It makes the soup taste fresh and bright every time.
Ingredients & Substitutions
Turkey: I use cooked or leftover turkey breast for a mild, meaty flavor. If you don’t have turkey, cooked chicken works well too. For a richer taste, try shredded ham or even turkey sausage.
Rice: White rice is quick and tender, giving the soup a nice texture. Brown rice adds nuttiness but takes longer to cook. For a gluten-free option, jasmine or basmati rice are great choices.
Broth: Using chicken or turkey broth boosts flavor. For a lighter option, use chicken broth with added herbs or a vegetable broth with extra seasonings. You can also use low-sodium broth to control salt.
Vegetables: Carrots and celery add sweetness and crunch. Feel free to add peas or spinach for extra nutrients. If fresh isn’t available, frozen vegetables work just as well.
Seasonings: Garlic, onion, salt, and pepper are key. Fresh garlic and onion give a more vibrant taste, but using powders is fine. Adjust seasonings to your taste—oregano or thyme can add more depth.
How do I ensure the rice cooks evenly in the soup?
Since rice can stick or unevenly cook, it’s best to add it at the right time. Add rice after the broth is boiling, then reduce heat and simmer. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure all grains cook evenly.
- Start with a rolling boil before adding rice to prevent clumping.
- Reduce heat to low once rice is added to keep a gentle simmer.
- Cover partially to control moisture and prevent sticking.
- Stir every 10 minutes for even cooking and to keep rice from sticking to the bottom.
How to Make Turkey and Rice Soup?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients
- 1 lb cooked turkey, shredded
- 1 cup rice, long grain
- 6 cups chicken or turkey broth
Vegetables and Seasonings
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
Prep: 10 minutes, Cooking: 30 minutes, Total: 40 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the ingredients
Chop the onion, carrots, celery, and mince garlic. Shred the cooked turkey if not already shredded.
2. Sauté the vegetables
In a large pot, heat some oil. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5-7 minutes until tender.
3. Add garlic and seasonings
Stir in garlic and thyme. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Pour in broth and bring to a boil
Add broth to the pot. Increase heat and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to simmer.
5. Add rice and cook
Stir in rice. Cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes until rice is cooked through.
6. Add turkey and heat through
Stir in shredded turkey. Cook for another 5 minutes until hot. Adjust seasoning if needed.
7. Serve your soup
Pour into bowls. Enjoy your hearty turkey and rice soup!
