Name: Turkey Rice Soup Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded or chopped; 1 cup uncooked rice (white, brown, or wild rice); 6 cups chicken or turkey broth (low-sodium recommended); 2 medium carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 bay leaf; Salt and black pepper, to taste; Optional: ½ cup heavy cream (for a creamy version), 1 teaspoon lemon juice, fresh parsley for garnish

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This turkey rice soup recipe is the perfect way to turn leftover turkey into a warm, comforting, and nourishing meal. Whether you’re making it after a holiday feast or just craving a hearty homemade soup, this dish is packed with flavor, easy to prepare, and incredibly satisfying.

In this recipe, you’ll learn how to make the perfect turkey rice soup from scratch, along with ingredient swaps, cooking tips, and storage instructions to keep it fresh. Whether you prefer a classic broth-based soup or a creamy variation, this guide will help you customize the recipe to your taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

A bowl of turkey rice soup with fresh parsley garnish, served in a rustic ceramic bowl, with a cozy kitchen in the background.

This turkey rice soup recipe is more than just a way to use up leftover turkey—it’s a warm, hearty, and nourishing meal that’s easy to make. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy dish to enjoy on a chilly day, this soup delivers on all fronts. Here’s why you’ll love it:

1. Great for Using Leftover Turkey

Instead of letting extra turkey go to waste after Thanksgiving or a holiday meal, this soup transforms it into a delicious, comforting dish. You can use roasted, smoked, or even rotisserie turkey for added depth of flavor.

2. One-Pot, Easy to Make

This soup requires minimal effort and cooks in just 30–40 minutes. Everything simmers in one pot, making cleanup simple and hassle-free.

3. Nourishing and Filling

With lean turkey, rice, and vegetables, this soup is both hearty and nutritious. It’s packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins, making it a balanced meal for the whole family.

4. Easily Customizable

Whether you prefer white or brown rice, wild rice, or even cauliflower rice, this recipe is adaptable. You can also adjust the thickness by adding more broth for a lighter soup or making it creamy with a splash of milk or cream.

5. Freezer-Friendly for Meal Prep

Make a big batch and freeze leftovers for later! This soup freezes well and reheats beautifully, making it a convenient meal for busy days.

6. Naturally Gluten-Free & Can Be Made Dairy-Free

If you’re avoiding gluten, rice is a great alternative to pasta or noodles. Plus, this recipe can be made dairy-free by skipping the cream or butter.

7. Perfect Cold-Weather Comfort Food

There’s nothing better than a warm bowl of turkey rice soup on a chilly evening. The rich, savory broth and tender ingredients make it the ultimate comfort food when you need something cozy and satisfying.

If you love cozy, nostalgic soups, you might also enjoy this Pastina Soup Recipe—a classic Italian comfort dish perfect for any occasion!

Ingredients and Substitutions

A wooden cutting board with shredded turkey, uncooked rice, chopped vegetables, a jar of broth, and fresh herbs arranged for turkey rice soup preparation.

This turkey rice soup recipe is made with simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create a flavorful and hearty dish. Below are the essential ingredients, along with substitutions and variations to suit different dietary preferences.

Essential Ingredients:

Cooked Turkey (2 cups, shredded or chopped) – Leftover roasted or smoked turkey works perfectly. You can also use rotisserie chicken if you don’t have turkey.
Rice (1 cup, uncooked) – White rice, brown rice, or wild rice all work well. Each type will slightly change the cooking time and texture.
Chicken or Turkey Broth (6 cups) – A rich homemade broth adds deep flavor, but store-bought works too. Low-sodium broth is best so you can control the seasoning.
Carrots (2 medium, diced) – Adds natural sweetness and color to the soup.
Celery (2 stalks, diced) – Enhances the soup’s flavor and provides texture.
Onion (1 small, diced) – A base ingredient that builds savory depth.
Garlic (2 cloves, minced) – Adds aromatic warmth to the broth.
Butter or Olive Oil (1 tablespoon) – Used for sautéing the vegetables and enhancing flavor.
Salt and Black Pepper (to taste) – Season to your preference. Adjust based on the saltiness of your broth.
Thyme (1 teaspoon, dried or fresh) – A classic herb that pairs well with turkey and rice.
Bay Leaf (1 whole) – Adds depth to the broth and should be removed before serving.

Optional Add-Ins and Variations:

Creamy Version – Stir in ½ cup of heavy cream or whole milk at the end for a richer texture.
Vegetable Boost – Add spinach, kale, or mushrooms for extra nutrients.
Lemon Twist – A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens the flavors.
Spicy Kick – Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for mild heat.
Low-Carb Option – Swap rice for cauliflower rice to make it keto-friendly.

Best Rice Options for This Soup:

White Rice – Soft, tender, and cooks quickly. Best for a classic, comforting soup.
Brown Rice – Chewier texture, more fiber, and takes slightly longer to cook.
Wild Rice – Nutty and hearty, giving the soup a rustic feel. It takes about 40 minutes to cook, so adjust accordingly.

How to Make Turkey Rice Soup

A pot on the stove with diced vegetables being sautéed in butter, steam rising as a wooden spoon stirs the mixture.

This turkey rice soup recipe is easy to prepare in just one pot, making it a quick and satisfying meal. Follow these simple steps for a flavorful, hearty soup that’s perfect for any occasion.

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of butter or olive oil over medium heat.
Add diced onions, carrots, and celery and sauté for 4–5 minutes, until the onions become translucent and the vegetables start to soften.
Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 2: Add the Broth and Seasonings

Pour in 6 cups of chicken or turkey broth and bring to a gentle boil.
Add 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, 1 bay leaf, salt, and black pepper to taste. Stir well to combine.

Step 3: Cook the Rice

Stir in 1 cup of uncooked rice (white, brown, or wild rice, depending on preference).
Lower the heat to a gentle simmer, cover, and let the rice cook:
- White rice: 15–20 minutes
- Brown rice: 30–35 minutes
- Wild rice: 40–45 minutes
Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 4: Add the Turkey

Once the rice is tender, stir in 2 cups of shredded or chopped cooked turkey.
Simmer for 5 more minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 5: Adjust & Serve

Remove the bay leaf before serving.
For a creamier texture, stir in ½ cup of heavy cream or whole milk (optional).
If the soup is too thick, add more broth until it reaches your preferred consistency.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Tips and Tricks

A bowl of turkey rice soup with shredded turkey, rice, and vegetables, garnished with fresh parsley and lemon, served on a rustic wooden table.

Making the perfect turkey rice soup is simple, but a few expert tips can help you achieve the best flavor and texture every time. Here are some key tricks to make your soup even better:

1. Use Homemade Broth for the Best Flavor

If you have leftover turkey bones, simmer them with water, onion, celery, and carrots to create a rich, homemade turkey broth.
Store-bought broth works well too, but opt for low-sodium so you can control the seasoning.

2. Choose the Right Rice

White rice is soft and cooks quickly, making it great for a classic version.
Brown rice adds a nutty flavor and more fiber but takes longer to cook.
Wild rice brings a chewy texture and hearty taste but requires extra cooking time.
If using pre-cooked rice, add it in the last 5 minutes of cooking to prevent it from becoming mushy.

3. Avoid Overcooking the Rice

Rice continues to absorb liquid as it sits, which can make the soup too thick.
If needed, add extra broth when reheating to bring back the right consistency.

4. Add Turkey at the End

Since the turkey is already cooked, stir it in during the last few minutes to prevent it from becoming dry or overcooked.

5. Enhance the Flavor with Fresh Herbs & Lemon

Stir in fresh parsley, thyme, or dill just before serving for extra freshness.
A squeeze of lemon juice brightens up the flavors and balances the richness.

6. Make It Creamy (Optional)

If you prefer a richer soup, stir in ½ cup of heavy cream or whole milk at the end.
A dairy-free option is to blend a portion of the soup and stir it back in for a naturally creamy texture.

7. Spice It Up (Optional)

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for a bit of heat.
A dash of paprika or smoked paprika enhances the smoky notes from roasted turkey.

8. Store and Reheat Properly

If storing leftovers, the rice will absorb broth as it sits, so add extra broth when reheating.
Avoid boiling when reheating—warm gently over low heat to keep the flavors intact.
If you love bold flavors, why not pair your soup with Taco Bell Nacho Fries? The contrast of spicy, crispy fries and warm, savory soup is irresistible!

FAQs

1. Can I use uncooked turkey instead of cooked turkey?

Yes, but you’ll need to cook the turkey first. If using raw turkey, cut it into small pieces and simmer it in the broth for about 15–20 minutes, or until fully cooked. Then, add the rice and continue with the recipe.

2. Can I use pre-cooked or leftover rice?

Yes! If using cooked rice, add it during the last 5 minutes of cooking. This prevents it from becoming too soft and absorbing too much liquid. You may need to add extra broth to adjust the consistency.

3. What is the best way to thicken turkey rice soup?

If you prefer a thicker soup, try these methods:

Let it simmer longer so the starches from the rice naturally thicken the broth.
Mash a few of the cooked vegetables and stir them back into the soup.
Add ½ cup of heavy cream or whole milk for a creamier consistency.

4. How do I keep the rice from getting mushy?

Rice tends to absorb liquid as it sits. To prevent it from becoming too soft:

Cook the rice separately and add it just before serving.
Use a firmer rice variety like wild rice or brown rice if you plan to store leftovers.
Store soup and rice separately if making ahead.

5. Can I make this soup dairy-free?

Yes! Simply omit the butter and cream. Use olive oil instead of butter, and if you want a creamy texture, blend a portion of the soup and stir it back in.

6. How long does turkey rice soup last in the fridge?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Since the rice will absorb liquid over time, add extra broth when reheating.

7. Can I freeze turkey rice soup?

Yes, but it’s best to freeze the soup without the rice, as rice can become mushy when thawed. Freeze the broth and turkey mixture separately, then cook fresh rice when reheating.

8. What can I serve with turkey rice soup?

This soup pairs well with:

Crusty bread or dinner rolls for dipping.
A fresh green salad for a light contrast.
Grilled cheese or turkey sandwiches for a heartier meal.

9. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes! Add all ingredients (except cooked turkey and rice) to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours. Stir in the cooked turkey and rice during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Looking for the perfect snack to enjoy with your soup? Try this Chex Mix Recipe (Oven) for a delicious balance of textures!

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