This Ground Turkey Zucchini Chickpea Skillet is a healthy, protein-packed meal that’s both quick and delicious. With lean turkey, tender zucchini, and hearty chickpeas, it’s a flavorful one-pan dish perfect for busy weeknights. Infused with cumin and smoked paprika, this meal is both comforting and nutritious.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy—ready in just 25 minutes
- Uses simple, wholesome ingredients
- High in protein and fiber for a balanced meal
- One-pan recipe, making cleanup a breeze
- Easily customizable with different spices and veggies
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Ground turkey
- Zucchini
- Chickpeas (canned, drained, and rinsed)
- Olive oil
- Onion
- Garlic
- Ground cumin
- Smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Directions
- Sauté the onion: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Cook the garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Brown the turkey: Add the ground turkey, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook for 5-7 minutes until browned and fully cooked.
- Add zucchini and chickpeas: Stir in the diced zucchini, chickpeas, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
- Cook until tender: Let the mixture cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the zucchini softens.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from heat, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve warm.
Servings and Timing
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4
Variations
- Make It Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne for extra heat.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace ground turkey with lentils or crumbled tofu.
- Extra Veggies: Toss in bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for more nutrients.
- Cheesy Twist: Sprinkle with feta or Parmesan cheese before serving.
- Low-Carb Version: Swap chickpeas for cauliflower rice or extra zucchini.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container.
- Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.
FAQs
Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?
Yes! Ground chicken works just as well as turkey in this recipe.
Do I have to peel the zucchini?
No, zucchini skin is soft and nutritious, so there’s no need to peel it.
What type of chickpeas should I use?
Canned chickpeas are the easiest option. Just drain and rinse them before using.
Can I add tomatoes to this dish?
Yes! Diced tomatoes or cherry tomatoes add a nice burst of flavor.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, all ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free.
Can I use fresh chickpeas instead of canned?
Yes, but you’ll need to soak and cook them beforehand.
How can I make this meal more filling?
Serve it over rice, quinoa, or couscous for extra substance.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! This dish stores well and tastes even better the next day.
What can I serve with this skillet meal?
A side of pita bread, hummus, or a fresh salad pairs well with it.
Can I double the recipe for meal prep?
Absolutely! Just use a larger skillet and store portions for easy lunches.
Conclusion
This Ground Turkey Zucchini Chickpea Skillet is a quick, wholesome, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. Packed with protein, fiber, and delicious seasonings, it’s a nutritious and satisfying meal. Try it today for an easy, one-pan dinner that the whole family will love!
Print
Ground Turkey Zucchini Chickpea Skillet
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Ground Turkey Zucchini Chickpea Skillet is a flavorful, protein-packed meal made with lean turkey, tender zucchini, and hearty chickpeas. Seasoned with smoked paprika and cumin, this quick and healthy one-pan dish is perfect for busy weeknights and ready in just 25 minutes!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 2 medium zucchinis, diced
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
-
Sauté Aromatics:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes, until softened.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
-
Cook the Turkey:
- Add ground turkey, breaking it apart with a spatula.
- Cook for 5-7 minutes, until browned and fully cooked.
-
Add Veggies & Chickpeas:
- Stir in diced zucchini, chickpeas, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until zucchini is tender.
-
Garnish & Serve:
- Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- Make it spicy by adding red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper.
- Swap chickpeas for black beans for a different flavor twist.
- Serve over quinoa, rice, or cauliflower rice for a heartier meal.
- Make it dairy-free or add a sprinkle of feta or Parmesan cheese for extra richness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired
