Go Back

Ground Turkey Quinoa Skillet

A wholesome one-pan dinner featuring ground turkey, quinoa, and vegetables that's ready in under 30 minutes
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 385

Ingredients
  

Main Components
  • 1 lb ground turkey (93/7 lean)
  • 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
  • 1 cup frozen corn kernels
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
Seasonings
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • ½ tsp chili powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • ½ cup shredded cheese (optional)

Method
 

Cooking Steps
  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat. Add the ground turkey, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook for 5-6 minutes until the meat develops a golden-brown color and is mostly cooked through with no pink remaining. Season with salt and pepper.
  2. Push the cooked turkey to one side of the pan and add diced onions to the empty space. Cook for 2-3 minutes until translucent and fragrant. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
  3. Stir in the chopped bell pepper, cumin, paprika, and chili powder. Mix everything together so the spices coat the turkey and vegetables evenly. Cook for 2 minutes until the peppers start to soften and the spices become fragrant.
  4. Add the rinsed quinoa to the pan, stirring to combine with the turkey mixture. Pour in the chicken broth and drained diced tomatoes. The liquid should just cover the quinoa. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and cover the pan.
  5. Let the skillet simmer covered for 15 minutes without lifting the lid. After 15 minutes, check that the quinoa is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
  6. Remove from heat and stir in the frozen corn kernels. Let the skillet rest for 5 minutes to allow any remaining liquid to absorb. Sprinkle with fresh cilantro and cheese if using.

Notes

Always rinse quinoa until water runs clear to prevent bitter flavors. Don't lift the lid during simmering for even cooking. Store leftovers in refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat with a splash of broth to restore moisture. This dish improves in flavor overnight and is perfect for meal prep.