One Pot Turkey Rice Bowl: Easy Weeknight Dinner!

January 27, 2026

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One pot turkey rice bowl is comfort food at its finest. This isn’t your grandma’s bland leftover turkey concoction. We’re talking about a flavorful, satisfying meal that comes together in one single pot, meaning less cleanup for you! The inspiration for this one pot turkey rice bowl came from those busy weeknights when I needed something quick, easy, and delicious. It’s a dish that warms you from the inside out and brings everyone to the table.

I remember one particularly hectic evening six years ago, when I barely had time to breathe, let alone cook dinner. I threw some ingredients into a pot, crossed my fingers, and hoped for the best. The result? A surprisingly tasty turkey and rice bowl that my family devoured. That’s how this recipe was born, and I’m excited to share it with you. Ready for a hearty and delicious meal?

Why You Will Love This one pot turkey rice bowl Recipe

This one pot turkey rice bowl recipe is a game changer for so many reasons! Forget multiple pots and pans; we are keeping it simple and efficient. The best part is that this dish doesn’t sacrifice flavor for convenience. The turkey, rice, and vegetables all cook together, creating a symphony of tastes in every single bite. It’s the perfect weeknight meal to whip up after a long day when you need comfort food fast.

Plus, it’s incredibly versatile. You can easily swap out the vegetables to use whatever you have on hand, making it a great way to use up leftover ingredients. Trust me; this one pot recipe will become a staple in your kitchen. I love hearing from readers who have made this recipe and found it easy and flavorful. It really is the best!

one pot turkey rice bowl - Detail or variation — Close-up detail

Ingredients Needed for This one pot turkey rice bowl Recipe

Turkey: 1 pound ground turkey (can substitute with leftover shredded turkey)
Rice: 1 cup long grain rice, rinsed
Broth: 3 cups chicken broth (low sodium)
Vegetables:

* 1 onion, chopped * 2 carrots, peeled and diced * 2 celery stalks, diced * 1 cup frozen peas * 1 cup frozen corn

Aromatics: 2 cloves garlic, minced
Seasoning:

* 1 teaspoon dried thyme * 1 teaspoon dried rosemary * 1/2 teaspoon salt * 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Oil: 1 tablespoon olive oil
Optional Toppings: Fresh parsley, shredded cheese, hot sauce

How to Make This one pot turkey rice bowl Recipe

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add the ground turkey and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
3. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 7 minutes.
4. Stir in the minced garlic, dried thyme, and dried rosemary. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
5. Add the rinsed rice and chicken broth to the pot and mix well. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
6. Stir in the frozen peas and frozen corn. Cook for another 2 3 minutes until the vegetables are heated through.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot with your favorite toppings, such as fresh parsley, shredded cheese, or a dash of hot sauce. For another great meal try this amazing One Pot Turkey Casserole 2!

How to Serve This one pot turkey rice bowl Recipe

This one pot turkey rice bowl is delicious on its own, but it can be elevated with simple toppings. A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds brightness, while shredded cheddar cheese provides a creamy, comforting element. For those who like a little heat, a dash of hot sauce is the perfect addition. Consider serving it with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal. If you are looking for other great meals, try this Sheet Pan Turkey Rice Bowl 2.

How to Store This one pot turkey rice bowl Recipe

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 4 days. For longer storage, transfer the cooled rice bowl to a freezer safe container and freeze for up to 2 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight (if frozen) and microwave until heated through. Alternatively, reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to prevent drying out.

Tips to Make This one pot turkey rice bowl Recipe

Use leftover turkey: This recipe is a fantastic way to use up leftover cooked turkey. Simply shred the turkey and add it to the pot after the vegetables have softened.
Rinse the rice: Rinsing the rice before cooking removes excess starch, resulting in a fluffier, less sticky final product.
Adjust the seasoning: Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Don’t be afraid to add extra herbs, spices, or a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the flavors.
Don’t overcook the rice: Keep an eye on the rice while it simmers. If the liquid is absorbed before the rice is fully cooked, add a little more broth. But dont overcook, or maybe try this related Sheet Pan Turkey Rice Bowl 3.
You can change up the ingredients and make this a one pot chicken rice bowl if you like.

Helpful Notes for This one pot turkey rice bowl Recipe

For the best flavor, use a high quality chicken broth. Low sodium broth allows you to control the saltiness of the dish. Long grain rice works best in this recipe, but you can also use other types of rice, such as brown rice or basmati rice. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly. If you’re using brown rice, it may take up to 45 minutes to cook.

Variation of This one pot turkey rice bowl Recipe

Spicy turkey and rice bowl: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the pot along with the vegetables for a spicy kick.
Creamy turkey and rice bowl: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese at the end for a richer, creamier texture.
Vegetarian version: Omit the turkey and add a can of drained and rinsed chickpeas or black beans for a vegetarian option.
Mexican inspired version: Add a can of diced tomatoes and green chilies, along with a packet of taco seasoning, and top with shredded cheese, sour cream, and salsa.

Can I use leftover rice for this recipe?

Using leftover cooked rice is not recommended, as it impacts the texture and required liquid amount. Cooking the rice in the pot with the other ingredients ensures better flavor absorption and consistency for the one pot turkey rice bowl.

What kind of rice is best for a one pot turkey rice bowl?

Long-grain rice, like basmati or jasmine, works best for this recipe. They cook evenly and produce a fluffy texture. Avoid short-grain rice, as it tends to become sticky in a one-pot dish.

How can I make this turkey rice bowl vegetarian?

To make it vegetarian, substitute the turkey with chickpeas, lentils, or tofu. Ensure you adjust the seasoning to complement the new protein source and maintain the savory flavor of the one pot rice bowl.

Can I freeze this recipe?

Yes, this one pot turkey rice bowl freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Reheat thoroughly in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

Conclusion

This one pot turkey rice bowl is more than just a recipe; it’s a culinary hug in a bowl, made with love and designed for ease. It’s a dish that adapts to your tastes and available ingredients. I hope you give this recipe a try and discover the simple joy of a home cooked meal. Let me know in the comments how yours turns out! Don’t forget to share your customizations for your own one pot turkey rice bowl because I can’t wait to see what you create.