Slow Cooker Turkey and Rice

Published: April 5, 2025

by mimi

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Slow Cooker Turkey and Rice is incredibly easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners stress-free
The combination of flavors creates a mouthwatering experience everyone will enjoy
You can customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand
Plus, it looks beautiful served in any bowl, perfect for gatherings or family dinners

My friends still talk about how they couldn’t resist going back for seconds when I served this dish at our last potluck.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

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

Turkey Breast: Use boneless turkey breast for juicy bites it’s lean yet flavorful.
Long Grain Rice: Long grain rice works best it stays fluffy and absorbs all those tasty flavors.
Chicken Broth: Opt for low-sodium chicken broth to control the saltiness while adding depth.
Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness chop it finely for even cooking.
Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic brings aromatic goodness use 3-4 cloves for maximum flavor.
Mixed Vegetables: Frozen mixed veggies save time they add color and nutrients in one go.
Spices (Thyme & Paprika): Dried thyme adds herby notes while smoked paprika gives a delightful smokiness.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to adjust taste according to your preference.

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

Let’s Make it together

Prep Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients on the counter. Dice the onion and mince the garlic to release their delightful aromas right away.

Sauté Aromatics (Optional): If you want to level up the flavor, heat a bit of oil in a skillet over medium heat and sauté the onions until they’re soft and translucent. Add garlic towards the end for that irresistible scent.

Add Everything to Your Slow Cooker: Transfer the sautéed onions and garlic into your slow cooker. Add turkey breast, rice, mixed vegetables, broth, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper on top.

Set It & Forget It : Cover your slow cooker with its lid and set it on low heat for about 6-8 hours or high heat for 3-4 hours. The longer cooking time allows flavors to meld beautifully.

Shred & Serve: Once cooked through, remove the turkey breast carefully from the slow cooker. Shred it with two forks before mixing it back into the rice mixture. This step is crucial since it distributes that tasty turkey throughout

Enjoy : Serve hot in bowls with optional garnishes like fresh parsley or additional paprika if desired. Get ready for compliments from your family and friends

Now that you have mastered this Slow Cooker Turkey and Rice recipe, don’t be surprised if everybody wants seconds…or thirds Enjoy every bite of this incredible dish that warms both heart and stomach

You Must Know

Slow Cooker Turkey and Rice is not just a meal it’s a cozy hug in a bowl
The aroma fills your kitchen, making it feel like home
This dish is perfect for busy weeknights, offering warmth and comfort with minimal effort

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by browning the turkey before adding the rice and broth to the slow cooker for richer flavors. Layer ingredients properly to ensure even cooking throughout.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap turkey for chicken or add extra veggies like carrots and peas for added nutrition. Experiment with spices to suit your palate perhaps a dash of cayenne or smoked paprika?

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if it appears dry.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For optimal texture, use long-grain rice as it holds up better in the slow cooker
Avoid overcooking by checking at the minimum time suggested
Always taste before serving seasoning can elevate your dish from good to great

Cooking this dish reminds me of family gatherings where everyone would dive into seconds, leaving no turkey behind. It became a staple, filling our home with laughter and love.

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but increase the cooking time by about 30 minutes for brown rice to cook thoroughly.

What can I substitute for turkey?

You can easily use chicken or even tofu for a vegetarian option without sacrificing flavor.

How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers are best enjoyed within three days when stored properly in an airtight container.