Are you looking for a delicious and healthy dinner recipe that's also quick and easy to make? Look no further! This one-pan lemon herb rice with ground turkey is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It’s packed with flavor, requires minimal cleanup, and is a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest. This recipe is perfect for those seeking easy recipes and healthy meals, delivering a satisfying and flavorful dish without sacrificing precious time. It's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, even for picky eaters!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ½ cups long-grain rice
- 3 cups chicken broth
- ½ cup chopped fresh parsley
- ¼ cup chopped fresh lemon thyme (or 1 tbsp dried)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of ½ lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
-
Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
-
Brown the turkey: Add the ground turkey to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
-
Combine ingredients: Stir in the rice, chicken broth, parsley, lemon thyme, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Season generously with salt and pepper.
-
Bake: Bring the mixture to a simmer on the stovetop. Then, cover the skillet tightly and transfer it to a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C). Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and the liquid is absorbed.
-
Fluff and serve: Once cooked, remove the skillet from the oven and let it stand for a few minutes before fluffing the rice with a fork. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Use good quality broth: The flavor of your broth will significantly impact the overall taste of the dish. Opt for a low-sodium chicken broth for better control over the saltiness.
- Don't overcook the rice: Overcooked rice can become mushy. Follow the cooking time closely and check for doneness before removing it from the oven.
- Adjust seasonings to your preference: Feel free to adjust the amount of lemon juice, herbs, and seasonings to your liking. A pinch of red pepper flakes could add a nice kick!
Variations:
- Add vegetables: Incorporate other vegetables like chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots for added nutrients and flavor.
- Spice it up: Include a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicier dish.
- Use different herbs: Experiment with other herbs like oregano, rosemary, or basil to create your own unique flavor combinations.
- Make it vegetarian: Substitute the ground turkey with cooked lentils or chickpeas for a vegetarian version of this delicious recipe.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
This one-pan lemon herb rice with ground turkey is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas. It's a simple yet satisfying meal that's perfect for busy weeknights, offering a delicious and healthy option for the whole family. Enjoy!