Turkey and Rice Skillet
Turkey and Rice Skillet is a simple, hearty meal with tender ground turkey, fluffy rice, and a mix of colorful veggies all cooked together in one pan. The flavors blend…
Tip: save now, cook later.Turkey and Rice Skillet is a simple, hearty meal with tender ground turkey, fluffy rice, and a mix of colorful veggies all cooked together in one pan. The flavors blend together nicely, making it a comforting dinner that feels both fresh and filling. It’s perfect for when you want something warm on the table without spending hours cooking.
I love how easy this dish is to throw together on a busy weeknight. I usually add a little extra seasoning or some garlic to give it a bit more zing. What I really appreciate is how customizable it is—when I have different vegetables in the fridge, I just toss them in, and it still turns out great every time. It’s like a little kitchen freestyle!
My favorite way to serve this skillet meal is with a simple side salad or some crusty bread to soak up the juices. It’s one of those dishes that everyone in the family enjoys because it’s not only tasty but also packed with good protein and grains. Whenever I make it, I know we’ll have leftovers that taste just as good the next day.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: This lean protein cooks quickly and keeps the dish light. If you want more flavor, try ground chicken or even lean ground beef. For a vegetarian twist, use crumbled tofu or lentils.
Rice: Long-grain white rice is great here because it cooks evenly in the skillet. You can swap for brown rice, but it will need longer cooking time and more liquid.
Bell Pepper & Jalapeño: These add color and a mild spicy kick. If you prefer less heat, leave out the jalapeño or use a milder pepper like poblano. Feel free to add other veggies like corn or zucchini.
Cheese: Cheddar melts nicely and adds creaminess. You can try Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a Mexican blend for a different taste.
How Do You Get the Rice Perfectly Cooked Without It Becoming Mushy?
Cooking rice and turkey together means you want tender, separate grains—not mushy porridge. Here’s what helps:
- Use the right rice amount—1 cup rice to 2 cups broth is a good balance.
- Don’t stir the rice while it cooks; this keeps grains intact.
- Keep the skillet covered to trap steam and cook the rice evenly.
- After cooking, let the dish sit covered for 5 minutes to finish steaming before serving.
With these steps, your rice will be fluffy and perfectly cooked alongside the turkey and veggies every time.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet with lid – Perfect for cooking everything in one pan and trapping steam to cook the rice evenly.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – Great for breaking up the turkey and stirring without scratching your skillet.
- Measuring cups and spoons – Helps you get the rice, spices, and liquids just right every time.
- Sharp knife and cutting board – For chopping onions, peppers, and herbs quickly and safely.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground turkey for ground chicken or lean beef for a different protein taste and texture.
- Mix in black beans or corn for extra color, fiber, and a touch of sweetness.
- Use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar if you like a little extra spice.
- Add fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime at the end for a fresh, zesty finish.
Turkey and Rice Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 jalapeño, thinly sliced (adjust to taste)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes, drained
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
- Lemon wedges for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 25 minutes to cook, for a total of roughly 35 minutes from start to finish. It’s fast, fresh, and perfect for a weekday dinner that doesn’t keep you waiting long.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook Onion and Peppers:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it softens, about 3 to 4 minutes. Then add the minced garlic and diced red bell pepper. Cook for another 2 minutes until everything smells wonderful and tender.
2. Brown the Turkey:
Add the ground turkey to your skillet. Use a wooden spoon to break it apart and cook it until it’s no longer pink, about 6 to 8 minutes.
3. Add Spices and Tomatoes:
Mix in the drained diced tomatoes, sliced jalapeño, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything well and let it cook for 1 to 2 minutes to let the flavors come alive.
4. Cook the Rice:
Add the uncooked rice and chicken broth to the skillet. Stir well to combine all ingredients. Bring the mix to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet. Let it simmer for about 18 to 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and all the liquid has been absorbed.
5. Melt the Cheese and Serve:
Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top. Cover the skillet again and let the cheese melt for about 3 to 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side to squeeze over.
This simple yet delicious turkey and rice skillet brings together a tasty mix of ingredients that make for a warm and satisfying meal. Enjoy!
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Yes! Brown rice works well but will need a longer cooking time—about 40-45 minutes—and you may need to add more broth to ensure it cooks fully. Keep the heat low and check occasionally to prevent burning.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Absolutely! Swap the ground turkey for plant-based crumbles or cooked lentils. You can also add extra vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini for more texture and flavor.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if it seems dry.
Can I Freeze the Turkey and Rice Skillet?
Yes, this dish freezes nicely! Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating on the stovetop or microwave.
