Ground Turkey And Rice Skillet

Name: Ground Turkey And Rice Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground turkey; 1 cup long-grain white rice; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Chopped parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Basic Quick Meals Ideas

I absolutely love making this Ground Turkey and Rice Skillet when I need a quick and delicious meal. It’s not just easy to prepare, but the combination of ground turkey with perfectly cooked rice and a medley of spices creates a hearty dish that pleases the whole family. In about 30 minutes, I can whip up a nutritious meal that's full of flavor, making it an ideal choice for weeknight dinners. Plus, the leftovers are fantastic for lunch the next day!

Created by

Dorothy Finch

Last updated on 2026-02-27T21:09:35.623Z

When I first tried making this Ground Turkey and Rice Skillet, I was amazed at how quickly it came together without sacrificing flavor. The key is to use quality spices and let the turkey brown slightly before adding your rice.

I also found that using a broth instead of water elevates the dish. It adds depth that keeps everyone coming back for seconds. I often include whatever veggies I have on hand, which not only enhances nutrition but also adds vibrant colors to the meal.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Quick and easy meal ready in just 30 minutes
Packed with lean protein and vegetables
One-pan dish for easy cleanup
Flavorful and satisfying comfort food

Perfecting Your Turkey

Using lean ground turkey in this dish not only helps keep it healthy, but it also absorbs flavors beautifully from the spices and vegetables. When cooking the turkey, make sure to break it into small pieces for even browning. Look for a golden color, which indicates flavor development. Additionally, don’t rush this step; allowing the meat to brown for about 5-7 minutes enhances the overall taste of the dish.

Ground turkey can be prone to drying out if overcooked, so aim for a final internal temperature of 165°F. If you are unsure, an instant-read thermometer is a reliable tool. If the turkey seems dry, consider adding a splash of chicken broth to help maintain moisture while cooking.

Choosing the Right Rice

For this recipe, long-grain white rice works best due to its fluffy texture, which allows it to soak up the chicken broth and flavors without becoming gummy. If you prefer a bit of variation, replace it with jasmine rice for an aromatic twist or brown rice for added fiber, but adjust cooking times. Brown rice typically requires an additional 15-20 minutes to become tender due to its denser structure.

If you're looking to cut down on cooking time, using pre-cooked rice is an option. Simply stir it into the skillet when adding the broth and spices, keeping in mind that you only need to heat it through, which should take about 5-7 minutes.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

Once you've prepared your Ground Turkey and Rice Skillet, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. This makes it a perfect make-ahead option for busy weeknights or meal prepping for the week. To reheat, simply warm on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it seems dry.

For serving, this dish is versatile; it pairs well with a side salad for added freshness or can be elevated with toppings like shredded cheese, avocado slices, or hot sauce for those who enjoy a bit of spice. You might even consider using the leftover skillet mixture as a filling for burritos, tacos, or stuffed peppers, giving it a new life in your meals.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to get started:

Ingredients

1 lb ground turkey
1 cup long-grain white rice
2 cups chicken broth
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, diced
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
Chopped parsley for garnish

Once you have all your ingredients, you’re ready to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a delicious Ground Turkey and Rice Skillet:

Cook the Turkey

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened. Crumble in the ground turkey and cook until browned.

Add Rice and Spices

Stir in the rice, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine everything evenly.

Add Broth and Veggies

Pour in the chicken broth and add the diced bell pepper. Bring it to a simmer, then cover the skillet and cook for 20 minutes or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid.

Serve

Remove from heat, fluff with a fork, and garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Enjoy your meal!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of soy sauce or hot sauce according to your taste preferences. You can also substitute quinoa for rice for a healthier alternative.

Cooking Techniques

The key to achieving the best texture with the rice is to allow it to simmer undisturbed in the chicken broth. Resist the urge to lift the lid frequently—doing so can release steam and disrupt the cooking process. After the cooking time, letting it rest for a few minutes off the heat will help the rice finish cooking evenly and settle, enhancing its fluffiness.

Using a large skillet is essential to allow even heat distribution. A cast iron or stainless-steel skillet can contribute to better browning of the turkey. If you notice any sticking, a little extra oil can help prevent it while adding depth to the flavor.

Flavor Variations

Feel free to experiment with additional spices or herbs according to your taste preference. Adding a teaspoon of oregano or thyme can introduce an aromatic quality that complements the dish well. If you like heat, consider incorporating some crushed red pepper flakes when browning the turkey.

For a touch of sweetness, mixing in diced tomatoes or corn can enhance the overall flavor profile. If you want a creamier texture, consider stirring in a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese just before serving for an indulgent twist.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time and increase the amount of liquid, as brown rice takes longer to cook.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just reheat thoroughly before serving.

→ What vegetables can I add to this skillet?

Feel free to include any vegetables you like, such as peas, corn, or spinach. Just add them in the last few minutes of cooking.

→ Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, this dish freezes well! Store in an airtight container for up to three months for a quick meal on busy days.