If you’re exploring wholesome dishes beyond vegetarian Turkish soup recipes, then this Turkish chicken soup will hit the spot. It’s a staple in many Turkish homes light, aromatic, and adaptable whether you want it with rice, vermicelli, or lemon. I first tried it at a Turkish friend’s dinner table. One bite, and I was hooked. The flavors were simple yet rich, and I asked her for the recipe right away.
In this article, you’ll discover a soul-warming Turkish chicken soup recipe and variations like Turkish chicken soup with rice, with vermicelli, and a lemony twist. There’s even a comforting chicken stew with potatoes. Let’s dive in.
Table of Contents
A Bowl Full of Memories
The First Time I Tasted Turkish Chicken Soup
Some dishes imprint themselves in memory, and for me, it was this gently spiced Turkish chicken soup. A Turkish friend served it during a casual dinner at her home. She had simmered chicken thighs with carrots, garlic, onion, and fresh lemon juice. What surprised me most was how such modest ingredients came together in such a vibrant, soothing broth.
Her version used short-grain rice, but she mentioned many people use vermicelli noodles instead. Others go bold with lots of lemon, turning it into a tangy comfort dish. The flexibility is part of what makes it loved across generations and regions. It’s deeply nourishing without being heavy.
The best part? This dish only gets better with time. It’s perfect for lunch or dinner and pairs wonderfully with simple vegetarian starters like Mediterranean eggplant recipes, making it ideal for gatherings that mix meat-eaters and plant-based friends.
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Turkish Chicken Soup Recipe (Comforting & Flavorful)
- Total Time: 1 hr 10 mins
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Comforting Turkish chicken soup with rice or vermicelli, lemon, and herbs. A perfect one-pot meal with deep Mediterranean flavors.
Ingredients
500g chicken thighs (bone-in)
1 large carrot, chopped
1 medium onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 cup rice or vermicelli
6 cups water
2 tbsp lemon juice
Salt to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
1. Boil chicken in water and skim foam.
2. Add onion, carrot, garlic and simmer 45 min.
3. Remove and shred chicken, return to pot.
4. Add rice or vermicelli and cook 15 more minutes.
5. Stir in lemon juice and season to taste.
6. Garnish and serve hot.
Notes
Use boneless chicken for faster cooking.
To freeze, omit rice and add fresh when reheating.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 60 mins
- Category: Soups
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Turkish
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 270
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
Variations of Turkish Chicken Soup You’ll Love
Turkish Chicken Soup with Rice and Vermicelli
Traditionally, Turkish chicken soup with rice is most common in Anatolian households. White rice is added toward the end of cooking and gently simmers until it softens, absorbing the savory flavors of the chicken broth. It gives the soup a comforting thickness that feels like a warm embrace.
In western Turkey, however, vermicelli noodles take center stage. They’re toasted briefly before being simmered in the broth, which adds a nutty undertone and lighter texture. If you’re craving something easy but different, try both versions you might find your own favorite.
Turkish Chicken Soup with Lemon Twist
Adding fresh lemon juice and zest transforms this soup into a vibrant, citrusy marvel. Often called Terbiyeli Tavuk Çorbası, the lemon version includes an egg yolk and yogurt emulsion stirred in at the end, giving it a creamy and tangy body. It’s the kind of soup that wakes up your senses and pairs perfectly with fresh parsley and ground black pepper.
This variation is especially great in summer when you want something nourishing but not overly rich. It balances warmth and brightness, an ideal combo for a light evening meal.
From Pot to Table, How to Make It
Simple Ingredients with Deep Flavor
Here’s what you’ll need to make the classic base of this Turkish soup recipe:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Chicken thighs (bone-in) | 500g |
| Carrot, chopped | 1 large |
| Onion, diced | 1 medium |
| Garlic cloves | 2 minced |
| Rice or vermicelli | ½ cup |
| Lemon juice | 2 tbsp (optional) |
Step-by-Step Instructions with Tips
- Place chicken thighs in a large pot, cover with water and bring to a boil.
- Skim the foam, then add onion, garlic, and carrot.
- Simmer uncovered for 45–60 minutes.
- Remove chicken, shred it, and return to pot.
- Add rice (or vermicelli) and cook for another 15 minutes.
- Stir in lemon juice and adjust salt to taste.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
More Than Soup, Try Turkish Chicken Stew
Turkish Chicken Stew with Potatoes for Hearty Meals
When you want something thicker and more rustic, Turkish chicken stew with potatoes is perfect. It uses similar aromatics as the soup but adds tomato paste, cubed potatoes, and a touch of paprika for heartiness. This version is less brothy, more saucy, and absolutely delicious with warm bread.
If you like more Turkish soup recipes, here they are Turkish tomato soup.
Serving Ideas, Sides & Storage Tips
Serve your chicken soup with:
- Lemon wedges
- A slice of Turkish pide bread
- A drizzle of olive oil or chili flakes
Leftovers keep beautifully for up to 4 days in the fridge. For meal prep, cook the base and freeze portions without rice or noodles, which you can add fresh when reheating.
FAQ – Turkish Chicken Soup
What makes Turkish chicken soup different from other chicken soups?
It often includes lemon juice or egg-lemon mixtures and uses rice or vermicelli instead of heavier ingredients.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, and it tastes even better the next day after flavors meld.
Can I freeze Turkish chicken soup?
Absolutely, but it’s best to freeze without rice or noodles. Add them fresh later.
What other herbs can I use?
Mint, parsley, dill, or even a pinch of dried oregano go well in this soup.
Conclusion
Turkish chicken soup is a dish that brings warmth, balance, and simplicity together in one bowl. Whether you try it with lemon, rice, or transform it into a chunky stew, it’s always satisfying.
If you’re also exploring vegetarian Turkish soup recipes, this one is a beautiful complement to plant-based options, and a great way to taste the heart of Turkish home cooking.
Everything published on this blog is based on experience and news and is not a reliable reference for scientific and health information. Rather, it is my personal experience that I share with you.
