Ground Chicken Zucchini Rice Skillet ๐Ÿ—๐Ÿฅ˜

recip


For the Skillet:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil
  • 1 pound ground chicken (or turkey for a lighter option)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 medium zucchinis, diced (about 2 cups)
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced (optional, for added color and sweetness)
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano (or Italian seasoning)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup uncooked long-grain white or brown rice
  • 2 cups chicken broth (low-sodium preferred)
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (fire-roasted for extra flavor)
  • 1 cup frozen peas (optional, for added nutrition)

For Garnish:

  • Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
  • Lemon wedges (for squeezing over the top)
  • Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Brown the Ground Chicken

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
  2. Add the ground chicken, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, and cook until browned and no longer pink, about 5–7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

2. Sautรฉ the Veggies

  1. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sautรฉ for 3–4 minutes, or until softened.
  2. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, until fragrant.
  3. Add the diced zucchini and red bell pepper (if using). Cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender but still slightly crisp.

3. Build the Skillet

  1. Stir in the smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper, coating the vegetables evenly with the spices.
  2. Add the uncooked rice to the skillet and toast it for 1–2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. This step enhances the nutty flavor of the rice.
  3. Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes (with their juices), scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
  4. Return the cooked ground chicken to the skillet, along with the frozen peas (if using). Stir everything together.

4. Simmer Until Done

  1. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15–20 minutes (or according to the rice package instructions), or until the rice is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
  2. If the skillet becomes too dry before the rice is fully cooked, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up.

5. Serve & Garnish

  1. Remove the skillet from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  2. Fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro.
  3. Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side for a bright, citrusy finish. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Tips for Success

  • Use Brown Rice: For extra fiber and nutrients, substitute brown rice—but increase the cooking time to 30–35 minutes.
  • Add Heat: Include a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
  • Make It Vegetarian: Swap the ground chicken for plant-based protein like lentils, chickpeas, or crumbled tofu.
  • Double the Recipe: This dish reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Why This Recipe Works

This Ground Chicken Zucchini Rice Skillet combines the best elements of a balanced meal—lean protein, fresh vegetables, and hearty grains—into one flavorful dish. The spices add depth and warmth, while the zucchini and bell pepper bring freshness and texture. By cooking everything in one pan, the flavors meld together beautifully, creating a dish that’s greater than the sum of its parts.

Conclusion: A Wholesome Meal in One Pan

Whether you’re looking for a healthy dinner option, a quick weeknight meal, or something to prep for the week ahead, this Ground Chicken Zucchini Rice Skillet has you covered. Its vibrant flavors, wholesome ingredients, and one-pan simplicity make it a standout dish that’s easy to love. Plus, its versatility means you can customize it to suit your family’s preferences or dietary needs.

We’d love to see your creations! Tag us in your photos or share your favorite variations—your twist on this skillet might just inspire others to try it too! ๐Ÿ—ucchini✨


 

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