Are you looking for a delicious, healthy, and easy weeknight dinner? Look no further! This ground turkey and rice recipe is a perfect solution for busy individuals and families alike. It's packed with flavor, requires minimal ingredients, and is ready in under 30 minutes. This versatile recipe offers a fantastic base for homemade cooking, perfect for those seeking quick dinner ideas or simply delicious dishes. Let's dive into this easy recipe and transform simple ingredients into a satisfying and healthy meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Optional: 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper (any color), 1/2 cup frozen peas, or shredded cheese for topping.
Instructions:
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Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This simple step builds a flavorful foundation for your dish.
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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. Browning the turkey properly ensures a richer flavor and better texture in your final dish.
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Combine Ingredients: Stir in the uncooked rice, chicken broth, diced tomatoes (undrained), oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
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Simmer to Perfection: Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and the liquid is absorbed. If you added vegetables like bell peppers, stir them in during this simmering stage.
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Serve and Enjoy: Fluff the rice with a fork before serving. You can garnish with shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, or fresh herbs for an extra touch. This adaptable recipe ensures it fits your taste preferences and dietary needs.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Don't overcook the turkey: Overcooked turkey can become dry. Cook until it's browned and no longer pink.
- Use good quality broth: Chicken broth adds a lot of flavor to this dish. Consider using homemade broth for an even richer taste.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to add more or less of any spice according to your preference. A dash of red pepper flakes could add a nice kick!
- Add vegetables for extra nutrients: This recipe is easily customizable. Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or mushrooms for a heartier and more nutritious meal.
Variations:
- Spicy Turkey and Rice: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Mexican-Inspired Turkey and Rice: Add a packet of taco seasoning and top with shredded cheese and salsa.
- Greek Turkey and Rice: Stir in some crumbled feta cheese and chopped fresh oregano before serving.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used. This makes a great healthy meal option for those watching their calorie intake. Enjoy this simple yet satisfying recipe – perfect for busy weeknights!