When you want a warm, satisfying bowl of comfort, this Turkey and Wild Rice Soup is the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table. It’s rich, nourishing, and layered with simple ingredients that create deep, wholesome flavor. This soup is especially great when you have leftover turkey from a previous meal, but it’s just as delicious with turkey cooked specifically for the recipe. The wild rice gives it a wonderful texture—chewy, nutty, and filling—while the vegetables and broth create a soothing base that tastes like home.

This soup and dinner recipe is ideal for cooler evenings, cozy weekends, meal prep lunches, or whenever you want a hearty meal that feels both comforting and nourishing. It’s made in one pot, making cleanup easy and stress-free. The flavors deepen beautifully as it rests, so leftovers taste even better the next day.

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Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 cup wild rice, rinsed
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• Water or extra broth if needed
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Build the Flavor Base

Set a large pot over medium heat and drizzle in the olive oil. Add the diced onion, chopped carrots, and celery. Cook these vegetables slowly, stirring occasionally, until the onions soften and turn translucent. This step creates the savory foundation of the soup, so give it a few minutes—around 5–7.

Once the vegetables soften, stir in the minced garlic and dried thyme. Let them cook for about 30 seconds, just until the garlic becomes fragrant. This brief heating releases the flavors without burning.

2. Cook the Wild Rice

Add the wild rice directly into the pot, stirring to coat it with the seasonings and vegetables. Pour in the chicken broth, then bring everything to a gentle boil. Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer.

Wild rice typically takes around 45 minutes to soften and open slightly. Check around the 40-minute mark. It should be tender while still having a pleasant bite. If the rice needs a little more time, continue simmering. If too much broth has absorbed and the soup thickens more than you prefer, you can add a bit more water or broth later.

3. Add the Turkey and Finish

When the rice has cooked, gently stir in the shredded turkey. Season the soup with salt and black pepper, adjusting the taste to your preference. Let the soup cook uncovered for another 8–10 minutes so the turkey warms through and the flavors meld. If the soup is thicker than you prefer, add small splashes of water or broth until the consistency feels right.

Once everything is warm and balanced, remove from heat. If using, sprinkle a little fresh parsley on top before serving. It adds a bright, fresh note that complements the rich broth.

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Tips for a Rich and Satisfying Soup

• Use leftover turkey—It blends easily and absorbs flavor beautifully.
• Check the rice early—Different brands vary in cook time.
• Adjust thickness—Add broth to thin or simmer uncovered to thicken.
• Season at the end—The broth and turkey may already contain salt, so taste before adding more.

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Ingredient Substitutions

• Turkey: Cooked chicken works perfectly if you don’t have turkey.
• Broth: Vegetable broth can be used for a lighter flavor.
• Rice: Brown rice or barley can replace wild rice, though cooking times will vary.
• Herbs: Thyme can be swapped for rosemary or a bay leaf for a different flavor profile.

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Serving Suggestions

This soup is wonderful on its own, but it pairs well with:

• Warm crusty bread or dinner rolls
• A fresh green salad with light dressing
• Toasted garlic bread for dipping

It’s also a great option for meal prep, whether for weekday lunches or evenings when you want something quick to heat and enjoy.

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Storing and Reheating

Let the soup cool before storing. Keep it refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The rice will continue to absorb some broth as it sits, so when reheating, add a small splash of broth or water to loosen the consistency. Warm it slowly over low heat to maintain tenderness.

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