Description
Turkey and Rice Soup is a hearty, nourishing soup filled with tender turkey, wholesome rice, and a variety of vegetables. It’s perfect for a cozy meal, especially after the holidays, and can be made in one pot for a simple and satisfying dish.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (adjust to taste)
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup cooked turkey, shredded or diced (great for leftover turkey)
- 1/2 cup white rice (or brown rice for a heartier option)
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 cup spinach or kale, chopped (optional, for extra greens)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
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Sauté the Vegetables:
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened.
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Add the Garlic and Spices:
- Add the minced garlic, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant.
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Add the Broth and Rice:
- Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and add the bay leaf. Stir to combine. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
- Add the rice to the soup and cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the soup is fragrant.
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Add the Turkey and Greens:
- Stir in the shredded or diced turkey and the chopped spinach or kale (if using). Simmer for another 5-7 minutes, allowing the turkey to heat through and the greens to wilt.
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Adjust the Flavor:
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt, pepper, or herbs if needed.
- For added brightness, you can stir in a tablespoon of fresh lemon juice at the end.
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Serve:
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve hot with a side of crusty bread or crackers for a complete meal.
Notes
- Rice Options: You can use white rice, brown rice, or even wild rice for this soup. Brown rice will require a longer cooking As an Amazon Associate, we earn a small commission from qualifying purchases made through our affiliate links, at no extra cost to you. Our recommendations are always honest and unbiased. Thank you for your support! time.
- Turkey: This is a great way to use up leftover turkey from a holiday meal, but rotisserie chicken works well too.
- Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like corn, peas, or green beans to make the soup even heartier.
- Freezing: This soup freezes well! Let it cool completely before storing in airtight containers in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup, Comfort Food, One-Pot Meal Method:
- Method: Sautéing, Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 35mg