Cozy Turkey Rice Soup

Cozy Turkey Rice Soup is the kind of warm, homey dish that brings instant comfort to the table. Perfect for using leftover holiday turkey or weeknight roasted poultry, this soup delivers soothing flavor in every spoonful. Tender turkey, soft vegetables, and fluffy rice simmer together in a savory broth that feels both restorative and deeply satisfying. It’s simple, nourishing, and wonderfully nostalgic.

This recipe builds its flavor from the ground up. Sautéed onions, carrots, and celery create a classic aromatic base, while garlic adds depth and warmth. As the broth simmers with thyme, parsley, and a bay leaf, it develops a gentle herbal aroma that perfectly complements the tender turkey. The rice cooks directly in the broth, absorbing seasoning and creating a silky, comforting texture.

One of the beauties of this soup is its flexibility. You can use leftover turkey or rotisserie chicken, uncooked or pre-cooked rice, or adjust the vegetables based on what you have on hand. It reheats beautifully and becomes even more flavorful the next day, making it ideal for meal prep or cozy afternoons at home.

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Light, hearty, and effortlessly comforting, this turkey rice soup is a recipe worth keeping in your rotation—especially during the colder months. A splash of lemon just before serving brightens the broth and brings all the flavors into perfect balance.

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Ingredients

  • 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded or chopped
  • 1 cup uncooked white rice (or 2 cups cooked rice)
  • 2 carrots, sliced
  • 2 celery stalks, sliced
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 6 cups chicken or turkey broth
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 tsp dried parsley
  • 1 bay leaf (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tbsp olive oil or butter

Instructions:

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