This Ground Turkey Zucchini Chickpea Skillet is a healthy and hearty one-pan meal packed with lean protein, fiber, and fresh vegetables. The combination of ground turkey, zucchini, and chickpeas creates a satisfying yet light dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Full of savory spices and topped with fresh parsley, this meal is as delicious as it is nutritious.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This skillet meal is quick, easy, and packed with flavor. The ground turkey provides lean protein, while the zucchini and chickpeas add texture and nutritional value. With cumin and paprika bringing warmth and depth, this dish is both comforting and light. The best part? It only takes 25 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for a busy weeknight meal or meal prep.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 2 zucchinis, diced
- 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, cooking until softened.
- Add ground turkey to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up into crumbles as it cooks.
- Stir in zucchini and chickpeas, cooking for 5-7 minutes until the zucchini softens.
- Season with cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4
Variations
- Add Veggies: You can add extra veggies like bell peppers, spinach, or tomatoes for more flavor and nutrients.
- Spicy Version: For a spicier dish, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños to the skillet.
- Low-Carb Option: Serve this dish over cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative to regular rice or couscous.
- Herb Twist: Try adding fresh herbs like basil, oregano, or thyme to complement the cumin and paprika.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally.
FAQs
1. Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?
Yes, ground chicken works well in this recipe as a lean alternative to ground turkey. It will have a similar texture and flavor.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, this skillet meal is perfect for meal prep. Prepare it in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat when ready to serve.
3. Can I use frozen zucchini?
Yes, you can use frozen zucchini, but make sure to thaw and drain it well before cooking. The texture may be slightly different, but it will still work.
4. How do I know when the turkey is cooked through?
Ground turkey should be cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). You can check with a meat thermometer or ensure it is no longer pink in the center.
5. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can substitute the ground turkey with plant-based protein, such as crumbled tofu or a veggie ground meat substitute, to make it vegetarian.
6. Can I add more spices?
Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the spices to suit your taste. Adding a little turmeric or coriander would bring an interesting twist, or you could add some chili powder for a smokier flavor.
7. What can I serve this skillet with?
This dish pairs well with a side of rice, quinoa, or couscous. You can also serve it over a bed of greens for a light, low-carb meal.
8. Can I add cheese to this dish?
Yes, a sprinkle of shredded cheese, like mozzarella or feta, would add a creamy texture and extra flavor to the dish. Add it at the end of cooking for a melty finish.
9. Can I use canned chickpeas or dried chickpeas?
Canned chickpeas are the most convenient option, but if you’re using dried chickpeas, be sure to cook them first and drain well before adding them to the skillet.
10. Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze this skillet meal in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the skillet or microwave.
Conclusion
This Ground Turkey Zucchini Chickpea Skillet is a quick, flavorful, and healthy meal that’s perfect for busy nights or meal prepping. The lean turkey, nutritious zucchini, and fiber-packed chickpeas come together in one pan to create a satisfying dish that’s full of savory spices and fresh herbs. Whether you’re looking for a nutritious weeknight dinner or a meal prep option, this skillet meal is sure to be a hit with the whole family!
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Ground Turkey Zucchini Chickpea Skillet
This Ground Turkey Zucchini Chickpea Skillet is a healthy, one-pan meal packed with lean protein, fiber, and fresh vegetables. Full of savory spices, including cumin and paprika, it’s a quick and flavorful dish that comes together in just 25 minutes. Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or meal prep, this skillet is both light and satisfying!
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 2 zucchinis, diced
- 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, cooking until softened.
- Add ground turkey to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up into crumbles as it cooks.
- Stir in zucchini and chickpeas, cooking for 5-7 minutes until the zucchini softens.
- Season with cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- Add extra veggies like bell peppers, spinach, or tomatoes for more flavor and nutrients.
- For a spicier dish, add cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños.
- Serve over cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative.
- Fresh herbs like basil or oregano can be added to enhance flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Skillet Cooking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
