Slow Cooker Turkey and Rice is like a warm hug on a chilly day. Imagine coming home to a kitchen filled with the savory aroma of tender turkey mingling with fluffy rice, all bathed in a rich broth. This dish isn’t just about filling your belly it’s about wrapping you in comfort and nostalgia.

I remember the first time I made Slow Cooker Turkey and Rice for my family. They came home from their long day, and their faces lit up like children on Christmas morning. The anticipation was palpable as they inhaled the delicious scents wafting through our home, making even the grumpiest teenager crack a smile.

I once served this dish at a family gathering, and there were no leftovers Everyone begged for the recipe.

Essential Ingredients

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

• Turkey Thighs: I prefer using thighs for their tenderness they stay juicy after cooking.
• Long-Grain Rice: Choose long-grain rice for its fluffy texture avoid sticky rice varieties here.
• Onion: A medium-sized onion adds sweetness chop it finely for even distribution.
• Garlic Cloves: Freshly minced garlic offers vibrant flavor don’t skimp on this aromatic.
• Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium chicken broth for better control over saltiness in the final dish.
• Carrots: Sliced carrots add color and sweetness they cook beautifully in the slow cooker.
• Celery Sticks: Chopped celery brings crunch and depth choose fresh stalks for best results.
• Seasonings: Use dried thyme, bay leaves, salt, and pepper to enhance flavors these spices work wonders together.

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

Let’s Make it Together

Prep Your Ingredients: Start by chopping your onion, garlic, carrots, and celery into bite-sized pieces. Lay everything out so you can easily grab them as you cook.

Sear the Turkey (Optional): If you’re feeling fancy or just want that extra flavor sear your turkey thighs in a hot skillet until browned on all sides. This step adds richness but isn’t necessary if you’re short on time.

Add Everything to the Slow Cooker: Place your turkey thighs at the bottom of the slow cooker. Layer the chopped vegetables over them and sprinkle with salt, pepper, thyme, and bay leaves to infuse flavors.

Pour in the Broth and Rice: Carefully pour chicken broth over everything until it covers the turkey. Add your rice last without stirring too much we want those grains to remain distinct

Set It and Forget It : Cover your slow cooker with its lid and set it to low heat for about 6-8 hours or high heat for 3-4 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the turkey is tender enough to shred easily with two forks.

Final Touches Before Serving: Once cooked, remove the turkey thighs and shred them before returning them to the pot. Stir everything together gently feel free to taste and adjust seasoning if needed

Enjoy your comforting bowl of Slow Cooker Turkey and Rice while reminiscing about cozy nights spent with loved ones around the dinner table

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To achieve optimal results, add the turkey and spices first, then layer in the rice and broth. This ensures even cooking and flavorful absorption.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap turkey with chicken or add veggies like peas or carrots for more color and nutrition. Experimenting keeps things exciting

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to four days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of broth to keep it moist.

Cooking this Slow Cooker Turkey and Rice dish reminds me of family gatherings where everyone fought over seconds. It’s a crowd-pleaser that guarantees smiles all around

FAQ

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but adjust cooking time to about 60 minutes longer for brown rice.

How do I prevent the rice from getting mushy?

Make sure to use the correct rice-to-liquid ratio and avoid overcooking.

What spices can I add to enhance flavor?

Consider adding garlic powder, thyme, or chili flakes for extra zest

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Slow Cooker Turkey and Rice

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• Author: Ann Foster
• Total Time: 0 hours
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Slow Cooker Turkey and Rice is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly evenings. With tender turkey thighs simmered in a savory broth alongside fluffy long-grain rice, this dish envelops you in warmth and nostalgia. Easy to prepare and customize, it’s ideal for busy weeknights and family gatherings alike. The enticing aroma fills your home, making it hard to resist seconds.

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Ingredients

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• 2 lbs turkey thighs
• 1 cup long-grain rice
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 celery sticks, chopped
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 2 bay leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Prep your ingredients by chopping the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery into bite-sized pieces.
2. Optionally sear the turkey thighs in a skillet until browned.
3. Place turkey thighs at the bottom of the slow cooker; layer with chopped veggies and seasonings.
4. Pour chicken broth over everything until it covers the turkey. Add rice on top without stirring.
5. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the turkey is tender.
6. Shred the turkey and return it to the pot; stir gently. Adjust seasoning if needed.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 6–8 hours
• Category: Main
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 420mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 75mg