Ground turkey and rice is a versatile and satisfying dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners. This recipe combines the lean protein of ground turkey with the hearty texture of rice, all cooked together in one pan for easy cleanup and maximum flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-pan convenience: Everything cooks in a single skillet, making cleanup a breeze.
- Quick and easy: Ready in just 45 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful and nutritious: The combination of herbs and vegetables adds depth and nutrition to the dish.
- Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe to suit your taste or dietary needs.
- Family-friendly: A wholesome meal that’s sure to please both kids and adults.
- Budget-friendly: Uses affordable ingredients without sacrificing flavor.
Ingredients & Preparation Notes
- Ground turkey: Opt for 93% lean to keep the dish moist without excess fat. You can substitute ground chicken or beef if preferred.
- Long-grain white rice: Rinsing the rice before cooking helps remove excess starch for fluffier results. Brown rice can be used, but cooking time will increase.
- Chicken broth: Low-sodium broth adds flavor without making the dish too salty. Vegetable broth works as a vegetarian alternative.
- Olive oil: Used for sautéing the vegetables, you can use any neutral oil like canola or avocado oil.
- Onion, garlic, and bell pepper: These aromatics form the flavor base of the dish. Feel free to use different colored bell peppers for variety.
- Frozen peas: Add a pop of color and nutrition. You can substitute with other frozen vegetables like corn or mixed veggies.
- Dried thyme and paprika: These herbs and spices add depth and warmth to the dish. Feel free to experiment with other seasonings like cumin or oregano.
- Salt and pepper: Season to taste, keeping in mind the saltiness of the broth.
- Fresh parsley: Used as a garnish for a fresh finish. Other herbs like cilantro or green onions work well too.
Professional Tips & Techniques
- When cooking ground turkey and rice, it’s important to brown the turkey well before adding the rice. This not only adds flavor but also helps the turkey retain its moisture. Cook the turkey until it’s no longer pink and has developed some golden-brown color.
When adding the rice, ensure it’s evenly distributed in the skillet and submerged in the broth. Resist the urge to lift the lid while the rice is cooking, as this can disrupt the steaming process and lead to unevenly cooked rice.
The rice should be cooked when it’s tender and has absorbed all the liquid. If it’s not quite done, add a bit more broth or water and continue cooking until it reaches the desired texture.
Recipe Variations
- Mexican-inspired: Add a can of diced tomatoes, black beans, and a tablespoon of taco seasoning for a south-of-the-border twist.
- Asian-inspired: Use soy sauce instead of broth, add ginger and garlic, and finish with a drizzle of sesame oil and chopped green onions.
- Mediterranean: Include chopped olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and a sprinkle of feta cheese for a Mediterranean flair.
- Vegetarian: Omit the turkey and increase the amount of vegetables, or add a can of chickpeas for protein.
- Spicy: Add a diced jalapeño or a teaspoon of chili powder for some heat.
- Herbaceous: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary, basil, or oregano to change the flavor profile.
- Low-carb: Substitute cauliflower rice for the white rice to reduce the carb content.
- Cheesy: Stir in shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese just before serving for a creamy finish.
Serving Suggestions
- Ground turkey and rice is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways. For a complete meal, pair it with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans.
For a more substantial meal, serve it alongside roasted root vegetables or a hearty soup. You can also use it as a filling for stuffed bell peppers or wrap it in lettuce leaves for a lighter option.
For presentation, garnish with fresh herbs and a sprinkle of paprika or grated cheese. Serve in individual bowls or on a large platter for family-style dining.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: This dish freezes well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to prevent drying out.
- Make-ahead: You can prepare the dish up to the point of adding the rice, then refrigerate until ready to cook. Add the rice and broth when you’re ready to finish the dish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the dish up to the point of adding the rice, then refrigerate until ready to cook.
Q: Can I use brown rice instead of white?
A: Yes, but you’ll need to increase the cooking time and possibly add more liquid.
Q: Can I add other vegetables?
A: Absolutely, feel free to add any vegetables you like, such as carrots, corn, or spinach.
Q: How can I make this dish spicier?
A: Add diced jalapeño, chili powder, or red pepper flakes to increase the heat level.
Q: Can I use ground beef instead of turkey?
A: Yes, ground beef can be used as a substitute, but it may change the flavor and nutritional profile.
Q: How do I know when the rice is done?
A: The rice is done when it’s tender and has absorbed all the liquid. If it’s not quite done, add a bit more broth and continue cooking.
Q: Can I make this dish vegetarian?
A: Yes, omit the turkey and increase the amount of vegetables or add a can of chickpeas for protein.
Q: What can I serve with this dish?
A: It pairs well with a side salad, steamed vegetables, or roasted root vegetables.
Conclusion
This ground turkey and rice recipe is a perfect example of a simple, flavorful, and nutritious meal that’s easy to prepare. The one-pan cooking method makes it ideal for busy weeknights, while the customizable nature of the dish allows you to tailor it to your family’s tastes.
Give this recipe a try and enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal that’s sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation. Don’t forget to share your creations on social media and let us know how you liked it! For an extra touch, serve it with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a side of your favorite vegetables.
Ground Turkey and Rice
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 5 minutes until softened.
- Add the minced garlic and diced bell pepper, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
- Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground turkey. Break it apart with a spatula and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the rinsed rice, chicken broth, dried thyme, and paprika. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and has absorbed the liquid.
- Add the frozen peas to the skillet, stirring to combine. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the peas are heated through.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.