DINNER

Cozy Slow Cooker Turkey And Rice Soup for Family Gatherings

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The aroma of Slow Cooker Turkey and Rice Soup fills your kitchen, wrapping around you like a cozy, warm blanket on a chilly day. Each spoonful offers a delightful harmony of tender turkey, hearty rice, and vibrant vegetables, dancing together in a savory broth that warms your soul. Imagine the sound of laughter as family gathers around the table, excited for the comforting meal that awaits them.

This soup isn’t just a recipe; it’s a heartfelt reminder of family gatherings where everyone shares their stories while savoring each bite. Perfect for those cozy evenings when you want something delicious but easy to prepare, this dish promises to be a crowd-pleaser, filling your home with warmth and joy.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • The simplicity of this Slow Cooker Turkey and Rice Soup makes it perfect for busy weeknights
  • The flavor profile features savory turkey complemented by fresh herbs and spices
  • Its beautiful presentation, filled with colorful veggies and tender grains, is as appealing as it is delicious
  • You can easily customize the ingredients to suit your taste or what you have available at home

I remember one cold winter evening when I first made this soup; my kids kept asking for more until their bowls were empty!

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Turkey Breast: Use boneless skinless turkey breast for tenderness; it’s leaner and cooks perfectly in the slow cooker.

  • Brown Rice: Opt for long-grain brown rice; it absorbs flavors beautifully while remaining firm.

  • Carrots: Fresh carrots add natural sweetness; chop them into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.

  • Celery: This crunchy vegetable enhances texture and adds an aromatic flavor; choose fresh stalks.

  • Onion: A medium onion provides a robust base flavor; sauté beforehand for extra sweetness if desired.

  • Garlic: Fresh garlic adds depth; minced garlic will infuse its rich aroma into the soup.

  • Low-Sodium Chicken Broth: Using low-sodium broth allows better control over saltiness while enhancing overall flavor.

  • Dried Thyme & Bay Leaves: These herbs impart earthy flavors; adjust according to preference for an aromatic finish.

  • Pepper & Salt: Season to taste; freshly ground pepper adds just the right kick!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prep Your Ingredients: Begin by chopping all vegetables—onions, carrots, celery—and mincing the garlic. This step establishes a colorful foundation for your soup.

Sauté Aromatics (Optional): In a skillet over medium heat, add a bit of oil and sauté onions until translucent. This process deepens their flavor before they join the slow cooker.

Add Ingredients to Slow Cooker: Transfer your turkey breast into the slow cooker along with chopped veggies, garlic, brown rice, thyme, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Pour in the chicken broth to cover everything evenly.

Set It & Forget It: Cover your slow cooker with its lid and set it on low for about 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The longer it cooks, the more flavorful it becomes!

Check & Adjust Seasoning: Once cooked through and fragrant, remove the turkey breast from the pot. Shred it using two forks before returning it back to the soup. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Savor Every Bite: Ladle your warm soup into bowls. Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers on the side for dipping—pure comfort food bliss!

This Slow Cooker Turkey and Rice Soup isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience wrapped in layers of flavors that make you feel at home no matter where you are! Enjoy every moment as you create this delightful dish that brings warmth to both body and soul.

You Must Know

  • This Slow Cooker Turkey and Rice Soup is not just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl
  • The savory aroma wafts through the kitchen, creating an inviting atmosphere
  • Plus, it’s super forgiving—perfect for those who sometimes forget they’re cooking!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing onions and garlic in your slow cooker; this enhances flavor. Then, add diced turkey, vegetables, and broth before letting it simmer for hours.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap turkey for chicken or add your favorite vegetables like spinach or peas. A sprinkle of fresh herbs can elevate the flavor profile beautifully.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, warm on the stove over medium heat until heated through, adding water if needed.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • Slow Cooker Turkey and Rice Soup is a perfect way to clean out your fridge
  • Using leftover turkey from Thanksgiving makes this dish even more special and economical
  • Adjust spices to taste for a unique twist every time you make it

Cooking this recipe reminds me of my first attempt when I accidentally added too much salt! My friends still tease me about that salty soup day, but we learned to laugh and adjust together.

FAQ

Can I use frozen turkey in this recipe?

Yes, frozen turkey works well; just ensure it cooks thoroughly before serving.

What can I substitute for rice?

Quinoa or barley are great substitutes if you’re looking for something different.

How long does this soup last in the fridge?

This soup lasts up to three days when stored properly in an airtight container.

Print
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Slow Cooker Turkey and Rice Soup


  • Author: homerecipeseasy
  • Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: Serves approximately 6

Description

Slow Cooker Turkey and Rice Soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly evenings. This hearty dish combines tender turkey, wholesome brown rice, and a colorful medley of vegetables simmered in a savory broth. Each spoonful is not just delicious but also a reminder of family gatherings filled with warmth and laughter. Easy to prepare and customizable, this soup will become a staple in your home.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound boneless skinless turkey breast
  • 1 cup long-grain brown rice
  • 2 medium carrots, chopped
  • 2 stalks celery, chopped
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 2 bay leaves
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prep your ingredients by chopping the vegetables and mincing the garlic.
  2. Sauté onions and garlic in a skillet until translucent for added flavor.
  3. In the slow cooker, combine turkey breast, veggies, garlic, brown rice, thyme, bay leaves, salt, pepper, and chicken broth.
  4. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until turkey is tender.
  5. Shred the turkey with two forks before returning it to the soup; adjust seasoning if necessary.
  6. Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 6 hours
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
  • Calories: 280
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 560mg
  • Fat: 7g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 36g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 24g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: You can substitute chicken for turkey or try adding spinach or peas for extra nutrition. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

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