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Quick Ground Turkey Skillet with Zucchini and Rice: Easy 30-Minute Dinner

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A quick and easy one-pan dinner featuring seasoned ground turkey, tender zucchini, and fluffy rice, all cooked in about 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights and meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground turkey (93% lean)
  • 2 medium zucchini (about 12 ounces total), sliced into 1/4-inch half-moons
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups cooked white rice (jasmine or long-grain)
  • 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt, plus more to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving, optional)

Instructions

  1. Prep your ingredients: dice the onion, mince the garlic, and slice the zucchini into 1/4-inch half-moons. Measure out the cooked rice.
  2. Heat a large 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon olive oil and let it shimmer. Add the ground turkey and cook for 5-6 minutes, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until browned and cooked through. Transfer to a plate using a slotted spoon, leaving any rendered fat in the pan (drain if more than 1 tablespoon).
  3. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil to the same skillet. Reduce heat to medium. Add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until translucent.
  4. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir constantly for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Add the sliced zucchini to the skillet. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender but still with a slight bite.
  6. Return the cooked turkey to the skillet. Add the cooked rice, chicken broth, dried oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Stir until well combined.
  7. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and cook for 5 minutes to let flavors meld.
  8. Remove the lid and stir. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. If dry, add a splash more broth; if too wet, simmer uncovered for 1-2 minutes.
  9. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Notes

For best texture, use leftover rice (day-old) or cool freshly cooked rice on a baking sheet for 10 minutes before adding. Don’t overcrowd the pan when browning the turkey to ensure proper browning. Cook zucchini just until tender with a slight bite to avoid mushiness. Let the skillet rest off the heat for 2-3 minutes before serving for best flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: ground turkey skillet, zucchini and rice, quick dinner, 30-minute meal, one-pan dinner, healthy weeknight dinner, meal prep

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