If you’re looking for a comforting bowl that’s packed with wholesome flavors and nourishing goodness, this Easy Chicken and Turkey Soup Recipe is exactly what you need. Combining tender pieces of chicken and turkey with fresh vegetables and fragrant herbs, this soup brings together the best of both worlds in a warm, satisfying broth that hugs you from the inside out. Perfect for chilly evenings or when you want something hearty yet light, this recipe is as simple as it is delicious, making it a beloved go-to for family dinners and cozy nights at home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple ingredients are the secret to making this soup both flavorful and wholesome. Each element plays a crucial role—from the protein that gives it heartiness, to the vegetables that add freshness and color, and the herbs that elevate every spoonful.
- Chicken breasts: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for tender, lean protein that cooks quickly and blends beautifully into the broth.
- Turkey meat: Adds a rich depth of flavor and extra protein; left-over turkey works wonderfully here.
- Carrots: Bring natural sweetness and vibrant color that brighten up the soup visually and taste-wise.
- Celery stalks: Provide a subtle savory crunch that balances the tenderness of the meats.
- Onion: Adds a foundational flavor that intensifies the warmth of the broth with every simmer.
- Garlic cloves: Infuse the soup with an aromatic punch that makes the whole kitchen smell irresistible.
- Chicken broth: The goldmine of flavor that ties everything together in a comforting, savory base.
- Fresh parsley: Adds a burst of green freshness and a mild peppery note at the end.
- Bay leaf: Offers a subtle earthiness that enhances the overall complexity of the soup without overpowering.
- Salt and pepper: To season and bring balance, ensuring each ingredient shines just right.
- Olive oil: For sautéing the vegetables gently and adding a silky richness.
- Optional noodles or rice: For a heartier meal, incorporating noodles or rice can give the soup a lovely texture variation.
How to Make Easy Chicken and Turkey Soup Recipe
Step 1: Preparing Your Ingredients
Start by finely chopping the onions, slicing the carrots and celery into bite-sized pieces, and mincing the garlic. Having everything ready before you start cooking makes the process smooth and enjoyable. Cut the chicken and turkey into small, uniform chunks to ensure even cooking throughout the soup.
Step 2: Sautéing the Vegetables
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onions, carrots, and celery, stirring often until they soften and release their natural sweetness—about 5 to 7 minutes. Toss in the garlic during the last minute to avoid burning and to let its fragrance bloom in the pot.
Step 3: Adding the Chicken and Turkey
Once the vegetables are tender, add your chicken and turkey pieces. Stir gently to combine, allowing the meat to get lightly seared and start cooking through as it mingles with the flavorful veggies.
Step 4: Pouring in the Broth and Simmering
Pour in the chicken broth, enough to cover the ingredients generously. Add the bay leaf and bring the soup to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer. Let it cook uncovered for about 25 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This slow simmer helps all the flavors meld into a rich, satisfying broth.
Step 5: Seasoning and Adding Fresh Herbs
Remove the bay leaf and season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Finally, stir in freshly chopped parsley for a dash of color and fresh herbal brightness just before serving.
How to Serve Easy Chicken and Turkey Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Top your bowl with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a few thinly sliced green onions for a burst of color and freshness. A squeeze of lemon juice or a dash of red pepper flakes can add an exciting twist that livens up each spoonful.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or warm, buttery dinner rolls—perfect for dipping and soaking up every last drop. A simple garden salad on the side adds crunch and balance, complementing the soup’s warmth with crisp coolness.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the soup in rustic bowls for a cozy, homey feel, or get creative by ladling it into bread bowls for a stunning presentation that doubles as part of the meal. Garnish with sprigs of fresh herbs or a dollop of crème fraîche to turn an everyday dish into something special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your soup, let the leftovers cool completely before transferring them to airtight containers. Stored in the fridge, it will stay fresh and flavorful for up to 3 days—perfect for quick lunches or a comforting meal the next day.
Freezing
This soup freezes beautifully, making it a fantastic option for meal prepping. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving a little room for expansion, and it will keep well for up to 3 months. Just remember to thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat your soup gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even warmth and to prevent sticking. If the soup seems too thick after refrigeration or freezing, simply add a splash of broth or water to bring it back to the desired consistency.
FAQs
Can I use only chicken or only turkey for this soup?
Absolutely! While the combination of chicken and turkey brings a unique depth of flavor, you can easily make this soup with just one type of poultry depending on what you have on hand. The soup will still be delicious and comforting.
Is this soup suitable for freezing without losing flavor?
Yes, it freezes incredibly well. Just keep in mind that if you add noodles or rice, they may become softer after thawing. To avoid this, you can freeze the soup without them and add freshly cooked noodles or rice when reheating.
Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
Definitely! After sautéing your veggies and browning the meat, add everything to your slow cooker with the broth and herbs. Cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or high for about 3 to 4 hours for tender, flavorful soup.
What’s the best way to make the broth richer?
Using homemade chicken broth or adding a small piece of Parmesan rind during simmering can elevate the richness. Also, slow simmering allows the flavors to deepen naturally, so don’t rush this step!
Can I add other vegetables to this soup?
Of course! Feel free to toss in your favorites like peas, corn, or potatoes. Just be mindful of cooking times so everything stays tender without overcooking any one ingredient.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope this Easy Chicken and Turkey Soup Recipe becomes one of your cherished staples, ready to warm your soul whenever you need a little comfort. It’s straightforward, flexible, and brimming with flavors that feel like a loving hug in a bowl. Give it a try, and watch how quickly it becomes a family favorite that everyone asks for again and again.
Print
Easy Chicken and Turkey Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A hearty and comforting Chicken and Turkey Soup packed with tender chicken and turkey pieces, simmered with vegetables and herbs to create a warm and flavorful broth. Perfect for chilly days or when you need a nourishing, homemade meal that’s easy to make and satisfying.
Ingredients
Meats
- 1 cup cooked, shredded chicken
- 1 cup cooked, shredded turkey
Vegetables and Herbs
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Liquids and Seasonings
- 6 cups low sodium chicken broth
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare Vegetables: Chop the carrots, celery, onion, and garlic finely to ensure even cooking and optimal flavor release into the broth.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the onions are translucent and vegetables slightly softened.
- Add Broth and Herbs: Pour in the chicken broth, then add thyme and bay leaf. Stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Simmer Soup: Lower the heat and allow the soup to simmer uncovered for 20 minutes to fully develop flavors and cook the vegetables tender.
- Add Meats: Stir in the shredded chicken and turkey. Continue to simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes to warm the meats through.
- Season and Finish: Remove bay leaf, season the soup with salt and black pepper to taste, then stir in chopped parsley right before serving for freshness.
Notes
- This soup can be made with just chicken or turkey if preferred.
- Use low sodium broth to control salt levels and keep the soup heart-healthy.
- For a thicker texture, add cooked rice or noodles at the last step.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
