Go Back

High Protein Turkey & Quinoa Skillet - Quick, Healthy, and Satisfying

Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 pound (450 g) lean ground turkey
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 zucchini, diced
  • 1 cup uncooked quinoa, rinsed
  • 1 can (14.5 oz/410 g) diced tomatoes, with juices
  • 1 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed (optional but recommended)
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Juice of 1/2 lime (plus more to taste)
  • Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • Optional toppings: sliced avocado, Greek yogurt, shredded cheese, hot sauce

Method
 

  1. Warm the skillet: Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and cook 3–4 minutes until translucent. Stir in the garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
  2. Brown the turkey: Add ground turkey, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook 5–6 minutes until no longer pink. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper as it cooks.
  3. Add veggies and spices: Stir in bell pepper and zucchini. Cook 2–3 minutes. Add cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, oregano, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Mix well to coat.
  4. Stir in quinoa and liquids: Add rinsed quinoa, diced tomatoes with their juices, and broth. Stir to combine and bring to a gentle boil.
  5. Simmer: Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook 18–20 minutes, or until the quinoa is tender and most liquid is absorbed. Avoid opening the lid too often.
  6. Finish it: Stir in black beans and lime juice. If the mixture seems dry, add a splash of broth or water. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and lime as needed.
  7. Serve: Top with cilantro or parsley and any extras you like—avocado slices, a spoon of Greek yogurt, shredded cheese, or hot sauce.