Easy Ground Turkey and Rice Skillet – One-Pan Dinner in 30 Min!

Table of Contents: Ground Turkey and Rice Skillet

A Quick, Flavorful, and Family-Friendly Dinner Solution

Busy weeknights call for quick, delicious, and fuss-free meals, and this Ground Turkey and Rice Skillet checks all the boxes! Imagine tender ground turkey, perfectly cooked rice, and vibrant veggies all simmering together in one pan, soaking up rich flavors in just 30 minutes. No endless dishes to wash, no complicated steps—just a hearty, wholesome meal that the whole family will love.

This recipe is a lifesaver for those nights when you want something nutritious, budget-friendly, and packed with protein without sacrificing taste. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—swap in your favorite veggies, adjust the spices, or even use brown rice for a healthier twist.

If you loved my Easy Mexican Ground Beef Skillet – Ready in 20 Minutes! 🌮🔥, you’ll adore this turkey version—it’s just as easy but with a leaner protein option. Ready to dive in? Let’s get cooking!


What is Ground Turkey and Rice Skillet?

Ever wondered why some dishes just sound comforting? The Ground Turkey and Rice Skillet is one of those meals—simple, hearty, and satisfying. But why call it a skillet? Well, because everything cooks together in one trusty pan, making cleanup a breeze!

Some say the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach, but honestly, this dish wins over everyone—kids, picky eaters, and even meal-prep enthusiasts. It’s like a turkey twist on classic fried rice, but with less oil and more wholesome goodness.

So, what’s the secret? A perfect blend of savory ground turkey, fluffy rice, and aromatic spices, all cooked in one pan for maximum flavor. Ready to give it a try? Let’s make dinner magic happen!


Why You’ll Love This Ground Turkey and Rice Skillet

1. Quick & Easy One-Pan Wonder

No need to juggle multiple pots and pans—this dish comes together in one skillet in just 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights when you need dinner on the table fast!

2. Budget-Friendly & Meal-Prep Ready

Ground turkey is affordable and high in protein, making this dish a smart choice for budget-conscious cooks. Plus, it reheats beautifully, so you can enjoy leftovers for lunch all week.

3. Packed with Flavor & Customizable

From garlic and onions to bell peppers and a dash of soy sauce, this skillet meal is loaded with savory goodness. Want to spice it up? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or swap in your favorite veggies.

If you love easy one-pan meals, you’ll also enjoy my One-Pot Wonder Garlic And Lentil Soup: Healthy, Flavorful, and Easy to Make—another family favorite!

Now, let’s get cooking!


How to Make Ground Turkey and Rice Skillet

Ground Turkey and Rice Skillet
Ground Turkey and Rice Skillet

Quick Overview

This dish is simple, flavorful, and foolproof. Brown the turkey, sauté the veggies, add rice and broth, then let it simmer until everything is tender and delicious. 30 minutes, one pan, and dinner is served!

Key Ingredients

1 lb ground turkey (lean or regular)
1 cup white rice (or brown rice for extra fiber)
2 cups chicken broth (or water + bouillon)
1 bell pepper, diced
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp soy sauce (or coconut aminos)
1 tsp paprika (or your favorite seasoning blend)
Salt & pepper to taste
1 tbsp olive oil

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Brown the Turkey – Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground turkey and cook until no longer pink, breaking it into crumbles.
2. Sauté Veggies – Add onions, bell pepper, and garlic. Cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.
3. Add Rice & Seasonings – Stir in rice, soy sauce, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Simmer with Broth – Pour in chicken broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15-18 minutes (or until rice is tender).
5. Fluff & Serve – Remove from heat, let sit for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.


What to Serve with Ground Turkey and Rice Skillet

This dish is a complete meal on its own, but if you want to round it out, here are some great pairings:

A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette
Steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli or carrots
Crusty bread or garlic knots for soaking up any extra flavor
A refreshing cucumber yogurt sauce for a cool contrast


Top Tips for Perfecting This Skillet Meal

Don’t skip browning the turkey—it adds depth of flavor!
Use a tight-fitting lid to ensure the rice cooks evenly.
Swap in quinoa or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
Double the recipe for easy meal prep—it reheats beautifully!


Storing and Reheating Tips

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3-4 days.
Freezer: Freeze portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Warm in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth to keep it moist.


People Also Ask: Ground Turkey and Rice Skillet

Ground Turkey and Rice Skillet
Ground Turkey and Rice Skillet

How do you cook ground turkey and rice together in one pan?

Simply brown the turkey first, then add rice, broth, and seasonings. Cover and simmer until the rice is tender. The turkey and rice cook together perfectly in one pan for an easy cleanup!

What spices are good with ground turkey and rice?

Paprika, garlic powder, cumin, and a dash of soy sauce add great flavor. For heat, try red pepper flakes or cayenne.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes! Use 1 ¼ cups broth per 1 cup brown rice and extend cooking time to 25-30 minutes.

What vegetables can I add to this skillet meal?

Bell peppers, carrots, peas, zucchini, or spinach work great. Add them when sautéing the onions for extra nutrition.


Conclusion

This Ground Turkey and Rice Skillet is a quick, healthy, and delicious solution for busy nights. With minimal prep, easy cleanup, and endless customization options, it’s a meal you’ll come back to again and again.

Give it a try tonight, and don’t forget to tag me on social media if you make it—I love seeing your creations! For easy dinner ideas.

Happy cooking! 🍽️

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Ground Turkey and Rice Skillet

Ground Turkey and Rice Skillet


  • Author: Crystal
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

A one-pan ground turkey and rice skillet with vegetables, perfectly seasoned for a quick and healthy weeknight dinner.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp cumin
  • 1/2 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking apart as it cooks.
  3. Stir in onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Cook until softened.
  4. Add rice, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and seasonings.
  5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer 20 minutes or until rice is cooked.
  6. Fluff with a fork and garnish with parsley before serving.

Notes

You can substitute ground chicken or beef. Add corn or black beans for more texture.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 plate
  • Calories: 390
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 540mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 42g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 28g
  • Cholesterol: 65mg

Keywords: ground turkey skillet, turkey and rice, one pan meal, healthy turkey recipe

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