Are you looking for a healthy, quick, and delicious dinner recipe that the whole family will love? Look no further! This ground turkey and rice recipe is a perfect example of easy recipes that are both satisfying and nutritious. It's a simple homemade cooking solution that's perfect for busy weeknights, and it's easily customizable to your preferences. This recipe is packed with flavor and is a great source of lean protein and complex carbohydrates. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Sauté the aromatics: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and green bell pepper and cook for another 3-5 minutes, until slightly tender.
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Brown the ground turkey: Add the ground turkey to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
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Add the spices and tomatoes: Stir in the chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to toast the spices. Add the diced tomatoes (undrained) and stir to combine.
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Combine rice and broth: Stir in the rice and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and the liquid is absorbed.
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Season and serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.
Cooking Tips for the Best Ground Turkey Rice:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: When browning the ground turkey, make sure not to overcrowd the pan. This will help ensure that the turkey browns properly and doesn't steam. Work in batches if necessary.
- Use good quality spices: Using fresh, high-quality spices will significantly enhance the flavor of your dish.
- Adjust the spice level: Feel free to adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your liking. If you prefer a milder dish, omit it altogether.
- Add vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to this recipe, such as carrots, zucchini, or corn.
Variations:
- Mexican Ground Turkey Rice: Add a can of drained black beans and a packet of taco seasoning for a Mexican twist.
- Greek Ground Turkey Rice: Add crumbled feta cheese, chopped Kalamata olives, and a squeeze of lemon juice.
- Mediterranean Ground Turkey Rice: Incorporate chopped cucumber, tomatoes, and a lemon-herb vinaigrette after cooking.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 30-35g
- Carbohydrates: 40-45g
- Fat: 10-15g
This ground turkey rice recipe is a fantastic example of healthy meals that are easy to prepare and highly adaptable. It's a perfect quick dinner idea for busy weeknights and a great way to enjoy a delicious and nutritious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Enjoy!