✨ Description
Turn your leftovers into something truly comforting with this Leftover Turkey Soup. Made with tender turkey, wholesome vegetables, and a delicate, aromatic broth, this recipe is the perfect way to create a warm, nourishing meal in just 35 minutes.
Whether you’re using holiday leftovers or rotisserie chicken, this soup is simple, satisfying, and packed with flavor—ideal for busy weeknights or cozy days at home.
🕒 Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Difficulty: Easy
🛒 Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 onion (or 2 shallots), finely chopped
- 1 large carrot, diced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 4 sprigs fresh thyme (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
- 6 cups (1.5 L) turkey or chicken stock
- ½ cup (75 g) pearl (Israeli) couscous
- 2 cups (250 g) cooked turkey or chicken, shredded
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
👩🍳 Instructions
1. Sauté the vegetables
In a large soup pot, heat olive oil and butter over low heat. Add onion, carrot, celery, garlic, and thyme. Cook gently for about 5 minutes until softened and fragrant.
2. Add broth and turkey
Pour in the stock, then add shredded turkey and bay leaves. Bring everything to a gentle boil. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Cook the couscous
Add the pearl couscous (or noodles). Reduce heat to medium and cook for about 10 minutes, or until tender.
4. Finish & serve
Remove bay leaves, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve hot.
💡 Tips for the Best Soup
- ✔️ Use homemade stock for deeper flavor
- ✔️ Add couscous just before serving to avoid overcooking
- ✔️ Shred turkey into bite-sized pieces for better texture
- ✔️ Adjust thickness by adding more broth if needed
🔄 Variations
- 🍜 With noodles: Swap couscous for pasta or egg noodles
- 🥦 Extra veggies: Add spinach, peas, or zucchini
- 🌶️ Spicy twist: Add chili flakes or black pepper
- 🥣 Creamy version: Stir in a splash of cream at the end
❓ FAQs
Can I use chicken instead of turkey?
Yes! Rotisserie chicken works perfectly in this recipe.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days.
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, but for best texture, freeze without the couscous and add it fresh when reheating.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
- Serve with crusty bread or garlic toast
- Pair with a fresh green salad
- Perfect for meal prep lunches
🥗 Nutrition (per serving approx.)
- Calories: 142 kcal
- Protein: 9 g
- Carbohydrates: 13 g
- Fat: 6 g
- Fiber: 2 g